BMW M5

Since 1984, four generations of the BMW M5 have delighted driving enthusiasts with a combination of breathtaking performance, stunning agility and elegant luxury to create a unique driving experience. The BMW M5, introduced to the American market in October of 2005, takes those attributes to an even higher level than its predecessors with new design, new technology and new engineering to create what truly can be considered an intriguing combination of a sports car and a luxury sedan.

For 2007, BMW M has introduced a 6-speed manual transmission for the BMW M5. This no-cost optional transmission has been developed for and will be offered exclusively in the North American market. It is the perfect enhancement for those driving enthusiasts who want to enjoy the 500-horsepower V-10 engine with the level of driver-car interaction only a manual transmission can offer. Of course, as with any M car, the pedals are arranged to provide smooth and quick heel-and-toe downshifting.

The BMW M5 equipped with the manual transmission features the same M Dynamic Mode (MDM) stability system as the Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) car. M Dynamic Mode enables enthusiastic track driving with greater longitudinal and lateral acceleration on dry road surfaces, however, with limited vehicle stability, corrections by the driver may be required. With the M Dynamic Mode activated, stabilizing interventions occur at a reduced level.

Other standard-equipment enhancements include a Tire Pressure Monitor System, a 4-year subscription to BMW Assist (previously 1 year) and a 4-year subscription to Real Time Traffic Information.

2007 BMW M5

Though based on the BMW 5-Series Sedans, the BMW M5 is packed with engineering, technology, design and luxury that are all its own. Like all BMW automobiles bearing the "M" logo, it has been developed by BMW M, the BMW subsidiary for high-performance automobiles. The BMW M5 is produced at BMW's Dingolfing Germany, plant, 60 miles northeast of Munich.

Performance & efficiency

• 5.0-liter V-10 engine producing 500hp, 383 lb-ft. torque (previous BMW M5: 4.9-liter V-8, 394 hp, 368 lb-ft.)
• 7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG)
• 6-speed manual transmission (no-cost option)

Handling, ride & braking

• M Variable Differential Lock
• Specially modified and calibrated front and rear suspension
• Electronic Damping Control, BMW's system of electronically controlled suspension in a new and special BMW M version with three modes
• Special steering system, "quicker" than that of the 5-Series and offering two levels of speed-sensitive power assist
• Compound, cross-ventilated disc brakes, BMW's largest-dimensional and most powerful ever
• 19-inch alloy wheels with Z-rated performance tires in differentiated front/rear sizes
• BMW M-calibrated Dynamic Stability Control with selectable M Dynamic Mode
• MDrive, a submenu in the iDrive system that allows the driver to "set up" his or her own preferred performance and handling settings for instant recall

Exterior design & function

• Unique front bumper/spoiler/air intake assembly
• BMW M "gills" in front fenders
• Special rocker panels with sharp accent line
• Satin Chrome Shadowline side-window trim
• M exterior mirrors, shaped to enhance vehicle aerodynamics
• Distinctively shaped lower section of trunklid
• Rear bumper/spoiler/diffusor assembly
• Four stainless-steel exhaust outlets
• Special BMW M color selection

Ergonomics, luxury & convenience

• Specific instrumentation
• Available Head-up Display with BMW M information set
• Short, illuminated SMG shift lever or manual shift lever, depending on transmission
• Heated 18-way M sport front seats
• Optional M Multi-function Comfort front seats, 20-way, including Active Backrest Width for enhanced lateral support while cornering
• Merino Leather upholstery, available in three treatments
• Brushed-aluminum interior trim standard, two types of wood optional at no extra cost