Performance BMW Model Reviews - Reviews on BMW Vehicles, Raleigh, NC

2008 BMW M5 Series

Overview

Dexterity of German engineers and workers mingled with the professional touch of advanced technology reflect the sophistication and individuality of the M5. The 2008 BMW M5, a high-performance variant of the midsize 5 Series performance sedan is available in one trim level only and it gets a few cosmetic changes this year. Door handles and window switches have been relocated to make it more stylish and ergonomic than ever. It also boasts of an intrinsic wireless system which has GPS, emergency assistance, and theft protection which exhibits BMW's penchant for technology.

Engine and performance

The 2008 M5 is equipped with a 5.0-liter V10 that generates a maximum 500 hp at 7,750 rpm and 383 pound-feet of torque at 6,100 rpm. The V-10 drives a seven-speed sequential manual transmission with steering-wheel paddles or a conventional six-speed manual gearbox.

Walk-around

The new BMW M5 with its flared arches and a proud overall stance is a clear indicator that it is here to occupy the top slot. Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights with adaptive lighting are standard. The M5's specially designed aluminum suspension adjusts to driving conditions and operates with Electronic Damping Control, which comes in three modes--normal, comfort and sport.

Comfort, Controls & Convenience

The interiors of the M5 are so incredibly loaded with gadgets and so well laid out that you never feel like getting out of this awesome machine. The M5 comes loaded with fantastic standard features such as the automatic climate control with separate left/right temperature and air distribution controls, with automatic air recirculation, 3-stage heated front seats, 2-way power glass moonroof with remote, expanded �one-touch� operation, anti-trapping feature, and sliding interior sunshade, power tilt and telescopic steering wheel with automatic tilt-up, power windows with key-off and �one touch� up and down operation both front and rear, anti-trapping feature, opening from remote, and closing from exterior lock, remote control key, BMW Ambiance Lighting, interior courtesy lights with automatic dimming function, front map lights and rear reading lights with separate left/right controls, dual front sun visors with illuminated mirrors, ground-illuminating lights in door handles, integrated 3-button Universal garage-door opener, heated driver�s door lock and rear window defroster, fully finished trunk with drop-down tool kit and interior trunk release and more.

Driving Impression

The M5 handles well, with its smooth rack and pinion steering, and instant braking due to its oversize brakes. Variable M differential locking is installed to deliver power to the wheel with the most traction, even in extreme conditions. The shock absorbers on the BMW M5 are enabled to adjust to different driving conditions and speeds, giving the M5 the stability of firm suspension in high speed situations and a softer setting for casual driving conditions.

Safety Features

Standard safety features available in the M5 include driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with "smart" dual-stage and dual-threshold deployment, and sensor to help prevent unnecessary passenger's airbag deployment, front- and rear-seat Head Protection System, front-door-mounted side-impact airbags, automatic front safety belt pretensioners and force limiters, automatic-locking retractors (ALR) on all safety belts, interlocking door anchoring system to help protect against door intrusion in side impacts, BMW's Advanced Safety System for integrated deployment of safety features, impact sensor that activates Battery Safety Terminal disconnect of alternator, fuel pump and starter from battery, Coded Driveaway Protection, remote keyless entry security alarm system with selective unlocking and double-lock features and more.