New 2024 BMW M5 cheaper than its predecessor

The all-new 2024 BMW M5 has been priced from $259,900 plus on-road costs ahead of first Australian deliveries in the fourth quarter of this year.

That makes the seventh-generation super sedan significantly cheaper than the previous-generation M5 Competition it replaces, although the new-generation Mercedes-AMG E 63 is yet to be revealed, let alone priced.

For reference, the previous M5 Competition peaked at a mighty $273,600 plus ORCs before it was discontinued, and the last V8-powered E 63 S was listed at $270,469 plus ORCs.

Fitted with a 4.4-litre V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain outputting a combined 535kW/1000Nm, the new Australian-spec M5 is claimed to hit 100km/h in 3.5 seconds and top out at 305km/h thanks to the standard inclusion of the M Driver’s Package.

That means that while it’s as fast as before, the heavier new performance flagship of the latest BMW 5 Series range is not as quick as the model it replaces (0-100km/h: 3.3sec).

An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels and houses the powertrain’s 145kW/280Nm electric drive motor, which draws current from an 18.6kWh (net) battery pack and is capable of driving the 2400kg-plus large luxury sedan alone at speeds of up to 140km/h.

The battery and motor combination also deliver a zero-emission cruising range of up to 68km against the WLTP cycle.

The monstrous powertrain is harnessed by an adaptive M chassis with electronically-controlled dampers, double wishbones up front, a multi-link rear-end and an electronically-controlled rear differential.

Standard equipment for the new M5 in Australia will be as plentiful as the amount of kilos it carries, as one might expect from a vehicle costing more than a quarter of a million dollars.

Other specification highlights include staggered 20- and 21-inch M light alloy wheels, a powered boot lid, M Compound brakes, Merino leather upholstery, heated seats and steering wheel, an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, four-zone climate control, carbon-fibre interior and exterior trim, comfort access, ventilated front seats and M Drive Professional.

Other inclusions comprise an interior camera, sunshades, wireless phone charging, M seatbelts, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, BMW iDrive running Operating System 8.5, ambient lighting, metallic paint and myriad drive configurations.

Red or black brake callipers are no-cost options, while a ceramic braking package costs an extra $18,500.

“Now in its seventh generation, the new BMW M5 brings notable firsts to the nameplate and is set to redefine performance and capability in the segment,” said BMW Australia.

“Production of the all-new BMW M5 has now commenced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, where all previous six generations of BMW M5s have been built.”

So far there’s no word on pricing or availability for the new BMW M5 Touring in Australia.

How much does the 2024 BMW 5 Series cost?
520i – $114,900
540d xDrive – $134,900
i5 eDrive40 – $155,900
i5 M60 xDrive – $215,900
i5 M60 xDrive Touring – $219,900
M5 – $259,900
* Prices exclude on-road costs

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