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The start point for the best source of fleet information
At the top of the BMW 5-series range sits the supercar-troubling 560hp 4.4-litre V8 M5. Capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in just 4.3 seconds, it's a significant halo product that helps create a reputation for the M-branded cars that sell M-sport trim levels further down the line-up.
The M5 has myriad settings to control the sportiness of the auto seven-speed transmission, throttle response, suspension and steering, but it's still not the most straightforward to drive smoothly at low speed. Apart from that, it's more civilised than the previous M5, and BMW claims 30% more power despite a 10% efficiency improvement.
The performance is phenomenal, and it handles like a significantly smaller and more nimble car, hiding its bulk and weight better than almost any car this size. However, it's hideously expensive to run, at an official 28.5mpg and 232g/km, although almost unparalleled in its rewarding and practical nature for that massive outlay.
BMW M5
P11D price
£72,195
Model price range
£30,380-£94,270
Fuel consumption
28.5mpg
CO2 (tax)
232g/km (35%)
BIK 20/40% per month
£421/£842
Service interval
variable miles
Insurance (1-50)
group 47
Warranty
3yrs/unlimited mls
Boot space
520 litres
Engine size/power
4395cc/560hp
Top speed/0-62mph
155mph/4.3secs
On sale
Early 2012
Score
7/10
Verdict
Phenomenal combination of performance and four-door saloon practicality, but not the easiest to drive smoothly and unsurprisingly expensive to run
Verdict
Phenomenal combination of performance and four-door saloon practicality, but not the easiest to drive smoothly and unsurprisingly expensive to run