BMW M5 F10 review (F10, 2011-2016) - ultimate super saloon with added muscle

No other super saloon offers the BMW M5’s combination of mind-bending straight-line performance, dynamic ability and everyday usability. Some mourned the loss of the previous M5’s manic V10, but the new 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 returns even more performance and uses less fuel. The F10 generation’s dual-clutch gearbox is a vast improvement over the old car’s SMG ‘box, too. 

This M5 is an altogether more refined machine than the E60 version, but it still boasts class-leading dynamics and a degree of agility that sits completely at odds with the near two-tonne kerb weight. Whereas the current generation M3 and M4 models are less than convincing in their dynamic make-up, the M5 is perfectly judged. 

The restrained, but handsome exterior styling and superbly appointed cabin simply complete the package. This M5 is a high water mark both for BMW and for the super saloon as a whole. 

> Performance and 0-60 time > The F10 M5 is one of the fastest saloon cars of its era. The twin-turbo V8 delivers a hugely impressive 0-62mph time of 4.3 seconds. The Ultimate 30 Jahre Edition dips below the four-second mark. 

> Engine and gearbox > The M5’s new 4.4-litre twin-turbo engine may lack some of the character of the previous V10 model, but it has masses more power and torque than its predecessor. 

> Ride and handling > The M5 delivers comfort when you need it and feedback and grip when you push on. A fantastic all rounder. 

> MPG and running costs > With a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, the M5 is never going to be a cost effective car, but BMW claimed 28.5mpg which is better than its predecessor. An 80-litre fuel tank extends your range to 400 miles. 

> Interior and tech > A fully loaded M5 is a serious tech showcase and BMW’s iDrive remains one of the best in car systems out there. 

> Design > The BMW M5 isn’t an overstated car, but BMW perfected hiding the car’s performance potential, yet delivering just enough hints to keep the looks exciting. 

Prices and specs

BMW M5 prices kicked off at £73,985 in 2011. Pretty much every major option you would tick on a standard 5-series was present and accounted for – 19-inch M lightweight alloy wheels, climate control, cruise control, adaptive LED headlights and extended Merino leather upholstery.

If you fancied turning your super-saloon into a luxury car, you could add options like a rear seat entertainment pack and the beautiful M multifunction seats (£835 as an option). 

Alternatively, you could take the another route and upgrade the car's performance. The Competition Package came in at £6700 and added a power boost plus upgraded suspension, while M carbon ceramic brakes cost £7395.

In 2015, BMW launched the limited-edition ‘30 Jahre M5’ to mark the 30th birthday of the M5. It was essentially a Competition Package with another 25bhp, lifting the total to 592bhp and trimming the 0-62mph time to 3.9sec. Just 30 were brought to the UK, all in striking, matt-finish Frozen Dark Silver, with a list price of £91,980. The same mechanical spec was used for the swansong Competition Edition, launched in 2016 with a run of just 200, laden with extra M goodies and priced at £100,995. Temptingly, even the limited 30 Jahres can now be had for under £30k.

What we said

Road Test, December 2011 - evo 163

‘You know the way a really good auto ’box instinctively knows when to hold a gear and when to drop a cog? That’s what this DCT does. The calibration is exemplary. Somehow it manages everything with serene indifference. Compared with the V10 M5’s auto mode, it’s a revelation.

‘As for the driveability, character and flexibility of the radical new motor, well, they’re all exceptional. Does it rev like the old V10? Of course it doesn’t. But just as the torque curve subsides, so the power takes over and the result must be one of the most remarkable powertrains of modern times.

‘The car feels noticeably heavier than its predecessor, but the brakes are just fine. They make plenty of noise but the pedal stays firm and the stopping power is commensurate with something that weighs so much and yet builds speed so quickly.

‘Like the best M-cars, it doesn’t feel like a fast 5-series, it feels like a stand-alone model. Something too heavy and not perfect, but still something very special indeed.’

BMW M5 (F10) rivals

The M5 faced stern competition in the shape of the Mercedes E63 AMG, which was more than a match in performance terms, but fell just a little short dynamically. The Jaguar XFR-S was a characterful alternative, but  lacked the M5’s handling polish, and while the Porsche Panamera GTS was almost the M5's equal as a driver's car, it was still some way down on power. If looking good is a priority, an Audi RS7 of the era is also worth a look, but it's not the driving machine an M5 is.

BMW M5 (F10) buying guide

The ‘S63’ twin-turbo V8 didn’t get off to the best of starts, with a number suffering oil pump failures leading to severe engine damage. Around 700 M5s and 6s built between July and September 2012, including 19 UK cars, were recalled and the defective parts replaced. Happily, the recall nipped the problem in the bud, and the engine has since proved reliable. Strong maintenance history and keeping an eye on oil consumption is important. Injectors and airflow meters can be problematic too

Servicing intervals are variable, depending on usage. The S63 uses timing chains, so there are no belts to replace, but the third service is the biggie, as it includes transmission fluid, spark plugs and other pricey items.

The F10 M5 had big brakes and big tyres to harness its big power. As such, these consumables can be expensive to replace – hundreds per corner for new meats and over £1300 for a full set of genuine brakes. Ceramics? Don't ask. Tyres seem to last surprisingly well, with some owners even reporting getting 20,000- plus miles from the rears. The F10 was a heavier M5 too and so has heavy-duty suspension components. It will also ride its rubber bushings harder, so be sure that they're all in good condition.