A 4.4-liter V8 with an M-developed TwinPower Turbo Package features the M division’s latest technology combined with BMW’s turbocharging know-how. Power is rated at 560 horsepower available from 6,000 to 7,000 rpm, which should keep fans of the M-division’s high-revving engines satisfied.
Despite the power boost,the 2010 BMW M5 says that fuel consumption is down 30 percent thanks to a full complement of EfficientDynamics upgrades, like automatic start/stop and brake energy regeneration.
One thing BMW has not mentioned is availability of a manual transmission.
Specially tuned steering works with the car’s Dynamic Damper Control and stability control with its own M Dynamic tuned mode and an M-specific active electronic locking rear differential to make the best of handling via electronic aids.
All 2010 BMW M5s receive the latest hard-drive-based version of iDrive with a dramatically improved interface and menu structure.
The standard seven-speed sequential manual gearbox (SMG) is a single-clutch automated manual -- a dwindling breed in this era of slick multiclutch gearboxes. The 2010 BMW M5 is a high-performance variant of the midsize 5 Series luxury sedan.
Options include soft-close automatic doors, keyless ignition/entry, fold-down rear seats, upgraded power front seats, a power rear sunshade and manual rear side shades, extended leather trim, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, an upgraded sound system, satellite radio and an iPod interface.
Powertrains and Performance
A conventional six-speed manual transmission is a no-cost option.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2010 BMW M5 includes stability control, full-length side curtain airbags and front-seat side airbags. Rear-seat side airbags are optional.
Driving Impressions
If your heart's set on a 2010 BMW M5 super-sedan, we'd recommend taking a close look at the M5's little brother, the more-enjoyable-to-drive M3 sedan.