BMW M5 2018: Specs, Performance, And Review

by Jhon Lennon 44 views

The BMW M5 2018 marks a significant leap in the evolution of high-performance sedans. This model year introduces a completely revamped M5, blending the luxury and refinement expected of a BMW 5 Series with the raw power and precision engineering synonymous with the M badge. For enthusiasts and casual drivers alike, understanding what makes the 2018 M5 special can greatly enhance appreciation for this automotive marvel.

Overview of the BMW M5 2018

The BMW M5 2018 represents the sixth generation of the M5, known internally as the F90. It debuted with a host of upgrades over its predecessor, most notably the introduction of an all-wheel-drive system, which BMW refers to as M xDrive. This system is a game-changer, providing enhanced traction and stability, allowing the M5 to put its considerable power down more effectively. Despite the addition of all-wheel drive, the M5 retains the option to switch to a rear-wheel-drive mode for those who prefer a more traditional driving experience.

Under the hood, the 2018 BMW M5 boasts a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing a staggering 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission, which offers lightning-fast shifts and contributes to the car’s impressive acceleration. The combination of the powerful engine and advanced drivetrain allows the M5 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, making it one of the quickest sedans on the market.

Beyond its performance credentials, the 2018 M5 also features a range of advanced technologies and luxurious amenities. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, including leather upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and aluminum accents. The car is equipped with a large infotainment display, which is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, the M5 comes standard with a suite of driver assistance features, such as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking.

The design of the 2018 M5 is both aggressive and refined. The exterior features a distinctive front fascia with larger air intakes, flared wheel arches, and a rear diffuser with quad exhaust outlets. These elements not only enhance the car’s visual appeal but also improve its aerodynamic performance. The M5 rides on lightweight alloy wheels, which further contribute to its sporty character.

Overall, the BMW M5 2018 is a remarkable car that delivers an exceptional driving experience. It combines blistering performance with luxurious comfort and advanced technology, making it a top choice for those seeking a high-performance sedan that can do it all. Whether you’re tearing up the track or cruising down the highway, the M5 offers a thrilling and engaging ride.

Key Specifications

Understanding the key specifications of the BMW M5 2018 is crucial for appreciating its performance capabilities and overall design. Here’s a detailed look at what makes this car tick.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2018 M5 is its 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This powerhouse delivers 600 horsepower between 5,600 and 6,700 rpm and 553 lb-ft of torque from 1,800 to 5,600 rpm. The engine’s robust output allows the M5 to achieve impressive acceleration figures. As mentioned earlier, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph (or 190 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package).

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission is specifically tuned to handle the engine's power and provide quick, precise shifts. It offers multiple driving modes, including automatic and manual, allowing drivers to customize their driving experience. The transmission also features Launch Control, which optimizes acceleration from a standstill.

The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system is another critical component of the 2018 M5's performance. It distributes power between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions. For purists, the system can be switched to a rear-wheel-drive mode, delivering a more traditional M car experience.

Dimensions and Weight

The BMW M5 2018 has the following dimensions:

  • Length: 195.5 inches
  • Width: 74.9 inches
  • Height: 58.2 inches
  • Wheelbase: 117.4 inches

The car's weight is approximately 4,370 pounds, which is relatively light for a sedan with all-wheel drive and a powerful V8 engine. BMW engineers used lightweight materials, such as aluminum and carbon fiber, to reduce weight and improve handling.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension system of the 2018 M5 is designed to provide a balance between comfort and performance. It features adaptive dampers, which automatically adjust to changing road conditions and driving styles. The suspension can also be manually adjusted through the driving mode selector, allowing drivers to choose between Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ settings.

The braking system is equally impressive, with large, ventilated discs and powerful calipers providing excellent stopping power. The M5 also offers optional carbon-ceramic brakes, which are even more resistant to fade and provide even better performance in demanding driving situations.

Fuel Economy

Given its high-performance nature, the BMW M5 2018 is not the most fuel-efficient car on the road. However, it still achieves respectable fuel economy figures for its class. The EPA estimates are:

  • City: 15 mpg
  • Highway: 21 mpg
  • Combined: 17 mpg

These figures can vary depending on driving style and conditions, but they provide a general idea of what to expect in terms of fuel consumption.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the 2018 M5 is equipped with a range of advanced technologies and luxurious amenities. The dashboard features a large infotainment display, which is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The car also has a digital instrument cluster, which provides drivers with important information about the vehicle's performance and status.

The seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of adjustability to accommodate drivers of all sizes. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, such as leather upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and aluminum accents, creating a premium and sporty atmosphere.

Overall, the BMW M5 2018 is a well-rounded car that offers an impressive combination of performance, comfort, and technology. Its key specifications reflect its high-performance nature and attention to detail.

Performance and Handling

The performance and handling of the BMW M5 2018 are where this car truly shines. With its powerful engine, advanced drivetrain, and finely tuned suspension, the M5 delivers an exhilarating driving experience that is both engaging and rewarding.

Acceleration and Speed

The 2018 M5's 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine provides blistering acceleration. The car can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, making it one of the quickest sedans on the market. Its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but with the optional M Driver’s Package, this limit is raised to 190 mph. The engine's broad torque curve ensures that power is always available, whether you're accelerating from a standstill or passing on the highway.

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission is perfectly matched to the engine's output, providing quick and seamless shifts. The transmission also features Launch Control, which optimizes acceleration from a standstill, allowing drivers to consistently achieve the car's impressive 0-60 mph time.

Handling and Agility

The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system plays a crucial role in the 2018 M5's handling. It distributes power between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability. This allows the M5 to put its power down more effectively, especially in challenging driving conditions. The system can also be switched to a rear-wheel-drive mode, allowing drivers to experience a more traditional M car driving experience. In this mode, the M5 becomes more playful and engaging, with a greater emphasis on driver skill and control.

The suspension system of the 2018 M5 is designed to provide a balance between comfort and performance. It features adaptive dampers, which automatically adjust to changing road conditions and driving styles. The suspension can also be manually adjusted through the driving mode selector, allowing drivers to choose between Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ settings. In Comfort mode, the suspension provides a smooth and compliant ride, making the M5 suitable for daily driving. In Sport and Sport+ modes, the suspension becomes firmer, providing greater control and stability during spirited driving.

The steering system of the 2018 M5 is precise and responsive, providing drivers with excellent feedback and control. The steering ratio is variable, meaning that the steering becomes quicker as the steering wheel is turned, making the car feel more agile and responsive. The M5 also features M Servotronic power steering, which adjusts the level of assistance based on the car's speed, providing optimal steering feel at all speeds.

Braking Performance

The braking system of the 2018 M5 is equally impressive, with large, ventilated discs and powerful calipers providing excellent stopping power. The brakes are easy to modulate, allowing drivers to precisely control the car's speed. The M5 also offers optional carbon-ceramic brakes, which are even more resistant to fade and provide even better performance in demanding driving situations. These brakes are highly recommended for drivers who plan to track the car or frequently drive in demanding conditions.

Driving Modes

The 2018 M5 offers a range of driving modes, which allow drivers to customize the car's performance to suit their preferences and driving conditions. These modes include Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and M1/M2 customizable modes. In Comfort mode, the car provides a smooth and relaxed driving experience, with softer suspension settings and less aggressive engine and transmission mapping. In Sport and Sport+ modes, the car becomes more responsive and engaging, with firmer suspension settings, more aggressive engine and transmission mapping, and a louder exhaust note.

The M1 and M2 customizable modes allow drivers to save their preferred settings for the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, and all-wheel-drive system. These modes can be quickly accessed via buttons on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to instantly switch between different driving setups.

Overall, the BMW M5 2018 offers exceptional performance and handling. Its powerful engine, advanced drivetrain, and finely tuned suspension make it a joy to drive on both the street and the track.

Interior and Technology Features

The interior and technology features of the BMW M5 2018 blend luxury with cutting-edge technology, creating a comfortable and engaging environment for both the driver and passengers. BMW has paid close attention to detail, ensuring that the interior is not only visually appealing but also highly functional.

Interior Design and Materials

The cabin of the 2018 M5 is adorned with high-quality materials, including fine-grain leather upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and aluminum accents. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of adjustability to accommodate drivers of all sizes. The M Sport seats feature integrated headrests and illuminated M logos, adding to the car's sporty character. The seats are also available with optional ventilation and massage functions, further enhancing comfort.

The dashboard and door panels are wrapped in soft-touch materials, and the stitching is precise and elegant. The overall design is clean and modern, with a focus on functionality and ergonomics. The controls are logically placed and easy to reach, and the infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly.

The 2018 M5 also features a number of M-specific design elements, such as an M leather steering wheel, M gear shift lever, and M-specific instrument cluster. These elements serve as a constant reminder of the car's high-performance nature.

Infotainment System

The infotainment system in the 2018 M5 is based on BMW's iDrive system, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the industry. The system features a large touchscreen display, which is easy to use and responsive. It also includes a rotary controller on the center console, which allows drivers to navigate the system without taking their eyes off the road.

The iDrive system offers a wide range of features, including navigation, audio, climate control, and vehicle settings. It also integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to access their favorite smartphone apps on the car's display.

The 2018 M5 also features a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield in the driver's line of sight. This allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road while still being able to see their speed, navigation instructions, and other critical information.

Driver Assistance Features

The 2018 M5 comes standard with a suite of driver assistance features, designed to enhance safety and convenience. These features include:

  • Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the car is drifting out of its lane.
  • Forward Collision Warning: Warns the driver of an impending collision.
  • Automatic Emergency Braking: Automatically applies the brakes if a collision is imminent.
  • Blind Spot Detection: Alerts the driver if there is a vehicle in their blind spot.
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Alerts the driver if there is a vehicle crossing their path when backing up.

The 2018 M5 is a great pick. With a combination of great specs, performance, handling, interior, and tech.

In conclusion, the BMW M5 2018 stands out as a remarkable blend of high-performance engineering and luxurious comfort. Its powerful engine, advanced drivetrain, and finely tuned suspension provide an exhilarating driving experience, while its well-appointed interior and cutting-edge technology features ensure a comfortable and engaging ride. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a casual driver, the M5 offers a compelling package that is sure to impress. From its blistering acceleration to its precise handling, the 2018 M5 exemplifies what a high-performance sedan should be.