It’s always exciting when a new BMW M5 is released. It is, after all, one of the most highly-regarded sports sedans ever created. Earlier this week, the new M5 premiered, and while it isn’t any quicker than the model it replaces, a plug-in hybrid powertrain gives it the ability to drive solely on electric power. It could also serve as the ultimate towing vehicle. BMW has wasted no time releasing the online configurator for the new M5 in Europe, and as we expected, it’s available with a slew of options, including a tow bar. Yep, those in the market for the new M5 can order the super sedan with a tow bar and flex on every other fool who drives a high-riding SUV or pickup truck, thinking it’s the only kind of legitimate towing vehicle.
The tow bar available for the M5 features
an electric, swiveling ball head that disappears under the rear apron when not
in use. It can then be deployed at the touch of a button, and there’s even a
Trailer Stability Control system to keep everything in check. The previous M5
had an impressive braked towing capacity of 2,000 kg and if this
new one can tow as much, we suspect plenty of owners will be optioning the tow
ball.
A slew of other options and packages are
available for the M5. The most comprehensive is the Ultimate Pack, priced at an
eye-watering £ 19,500 (US$ 24,600). It includes an Alcantara headliner, BMW’s
Driving Assistant Professional, front and rear heated seats, carbon ceramic
brakes, several carbon fiber exterior parts, the M Driver’s Pack, and Parking
Assistant Professional. As for the exterior of the M5, it can be finished in
one of ten available colors, including our personal favorite, M Isle of Man
Green. 3 wheel designs are also offered, all sized at 20 inches at the front
and 21 inches at the rear.
BMW offers four different leather packages
for the inside. We’re particularly fond of the red and black Merino leather, a
£ 500 (US$ 631) option. Found beneath the skin of the new M5 is a 4.4-liter
twin-turbocharged V8, just like the old model. However, the new car also
features an electric motor and a battery pack, resulting in a combined 717 hp
and 1,000 Nm of torque.
