2013 BMW M5 in New Haven, CT - $29,297

Sports car, luxury sedan, either or both -â€" the driver gets to choose when driving the new M5 sedan. Based on the muscular, masculine and unmistakably BMW 5-Series sedan, the new fourth-generation M5 takes the key M5 attributes to an even higher level than its predecessors. The key word is "more," as in more performance, more technical sophistication and more luxury -â€" achieved by the application of new design, technology and engineering.

Developed by BMW M, the automaker’s subsidiary for racing and high performance automobiles, the rear-drive M5 sedan is produced at the German automaker’s Dingolfing, Germany, manufacturing facility. Power for the amazing M5 is generated by an equally amazing 5.0L 10-cylinder prime mover bolted to an all-new seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG). A six-speed manual transmission is an available option.

The V10 motor (called the S85 in BMW engine parlance) is a first for the M sedan, with a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds and a redline of 8,250 rpm. With a general layout that was inspired by BMW’s Formula 1 racing engine, the S85 is a satisfactorily balanced configuration, requiring no balance shafts to make it acceptably smooth. Instead, the crankshaft incorporates two large counterweights.

Like the six-cylinder M3 engine, the S85 was conceived to exploit high engine speeds to achieve high performance -â€" without the extreme torque. As a result, relatively light, low-mass reciprocating components are used inside the engine, moderating overall vehicle weight and optimizing front/rear weight distribution.

Instead of using the regular Valvetronic system standard in the automaker’s regular production engines, the M5 V10 employs a typical BMW M valvetrain, with its four valves per cylinder actuated via a “box-type” hydraulic lifters derived from racing practice. Small, light and extremely rigid, they are also shaped for efficient valve actuation.

On the road behind the wheel of the M5 can best be described as passionately aggressive driving. Its broad powerband is seamless and fluid -â€" with no compromises necessary for the discriminatingly demanding driver.

Clean, modern and tasteful, BMW engineers built into the M5 advanced materials, ultra-light alloys and they employed space-saving design techniques. Examples of these engineering wonders include extensive use of aluminum in the body structure, body panels and entire front end of the car. Much of the suspension is all-aluminum, saving overall vehicle weight while delivering a compliant, firm ride.

Control hardware for the M5 is based on the top-of-the-line 550i sedan with changes affecting the suspension system and its connections to the body structure.

Further enhancements include a special M version of Electronic Damping Control, the M variable differential lock, Servotronic steering with two levels of power assist, amply dimensioned cross-drilled brakes, and wheels and tires that give the M5 an impressive footprint.

Inside the passenger compartment, the M5 boasts the sportiest and more luxurious 5 Series interior. Upholstered in Merino, BMW’s finest leather grade, the interior is trimmed in brushed aluminum or a choice of two elegant woods, offering a unique selection of upholstery colors and providing special instrumentation and displays and offering options such as the M Head-up display and M Multi-function comfort seats with Active Backrest Width.

BMW engineers developed a large, airy environment that is clean, modern and inviting. The dashboard displays and controls bear a strong family resemblance to the Z4 roadster. Arranged neatly under a sculpted cowl, the instrumentation brings a sense of clarity and freedom to driving.

Displays and controls are straightforward. The driver's seat is blissfully adjustable. Any driver is able to find just the right combination for maximum comfort. The rear seating area is a very comfortable place for two adults. Opening the trunk lid exposes a huge trunk, both wide and deep.

BMW equipped the M5 with an enhanced version of the iDrive controller that debuted on the larger 7-Series sedan a few years ago. This version is quite user-friendly and easy to operate. The iDrive controller is designed to allow access to a variety of functions that are displayed on the color monitor in the center dashboard.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 113.7; overall length: 191.5; width: 72.7; height: 57.8 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 5.0L V10 -- 500 hp at 7,750 rpm and 383 lbs-ft of torque at 6,100 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed manual, seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG).

EPA fuel economy: 12 city/18 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 14.0 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, dynamic stability control, all-speed traction control, electronic brake proportioning, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, cornering/braking stability enhancement system, dynamic brake control, variable differential lock, adaptive Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps, automatic headlamp control, daytime running lights, park distance control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, remote keyless entry, universal transceiver, navigation system, front/rear head protection system, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, SOS button, central locking system, alarm system and coded drive away protection.

Optional safety features include rear-seat side-impact airbags.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, limited.

Full maintenance: 4-year/50,000 mile.

Corrosion: 12-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 BMW M5 sedan starts at $81,200 with destination charges adding $695.

As tested

2006 BMW M5 sedan

Exterior color: Interlargos Blue metallic

Interior color: Black

Tire make/model: Continental SportContact2

Tire size -â€" P255/40ZR19 front, P285/34ZR19 rear

Base price $81,200

Destination charges 695

Heads-up display 1,000

Satellite radio 595

Gas guzzler tax 3,700

Total as tested $87,190

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