By Sala Masindane

There are things and cars in life that don’t need any introduction. If we focus on the latter, there are cars that just exude presence through sound and looks. Plenty come to mind, but none quite like the BMW M5. It has been the unchallenged ruler of the performance sedan field for as long as I can remember. Yes, the likes of Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar have tried to compete, but to no avail. However, in the words of the famous poet Jay-Z, “allow us to reintroduce” the seventh-generation BMW M5 plug-in hybrid. You’re probably thinking if it’s boring now. Don’t worry, it hasn’t lost any of its prowess.

How does it look now?

It still looks every bit the performance machine, with bold styling that sets it apart. There’s no mistaking it for the all-electric i5. The new M5 carries a more aggressive stance and is wider than its predecessor. Up front, it has a mean look. The radiator grille resembles that of the i5 M60, but this one has functional openings to feed air in and features M elements, including the signature M5 badge.

Inside

It doesn’t differ much from the regular 5 Series or the i5. However, climbing aboard, the new M5 sets itself apart with an M-specific interior. Highlights include a multifunctional flat-bottom M steering wheel with M1 and M2 shortcut buttons, BMW’s Curved Display with M-specific menus, and new M seats with improved geometry. The luxury sedan blends sportiness with premium comfort. The infotainment system works well, and there’s enough space for five adults.

Engine

Under the bonnet of the new M5 sits a 4.4-litre V8 engine assisted by an M Hybrid electric motor, delivering a total system output of 535 kW and 1 000 Nm. The heft of the M5 comes from the 18.6 kWh lithium-ion battery, which allows up to 69 km of pure electric driving when fully charged. It’s paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and has a claimed 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 3.5 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h.

Performance

Start up the M5 and you’re met by the silent hybrid motor, which takes some getting used to. Once it transitions to the 4.4-litre V8 engine, the familiar soundtrack returns. The big-body 2-tonne sedan accelerates ridiculously fast yet remains smooth. It’s not as nimble around corners as its smaller siblings, but it still delivers jaw-dropping performance for its size. Truth be told, the addition of the electric motor hasn’t made the M5 more economical, but it is a guzzler of note. It’s for those days when you’re not doing the robot take-off, but then again, who buys an M5 to be conservative?

Final word

The one thing that has remained great about the M5 across all generations is its balance between performance and comfort, and this version keeps that tradition alive. It’s brutally fast but also leans toward luxury. The king of performance sedans isn’t letting go of the throne anytime soon. At a starting price of R2,745,000, you can take my money or my kidney.