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Misty Jain

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  • Published: May 13 2025 07:26 PM
  • Last Updated: May 24 2025 04:42 PM

BMW M5 goes hybrid with 717 HP! But is it too heavy and bland? Meet the retro-inspired M5 Touring with bold CGI upgrades. See the wild new look.


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BMW’s latest M5 — the 2025 model — is finally out, and honestly, it’s got people kind of split. On paper, it’s the most powerful M5 they’ve ever made. Thing is, this one comes with a lot more weight than you'd expect. And that’s got a lot of fans scratching their heads.

This one’s a plug-in hybrid. Believe it or not, this is actually the first time BMW has made a hybrid version of the M5. It borrows the setup from the BMW XM, which was already kinda controversial. Under the hood, it’s got a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 paired with an electric motor. Together, that combo cranks out a wild 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque.

Sounds amazing, right? But then you realize it weighs over 5,600 pounds. That’s more than some SUVs. Some fans have even joked it’s more of a “freight train” than a performance sedan. So yeah… it’s strong, but not exactly light on its feet.

Design Isn’t Hitting the Same for Everyone

Now let’s talk about how it looks — because that’s causing just as much debate as the weight. The new M5 didn’t go full bold like some people expected. BMW played it a bit safe. The front end looks fine, but it doesn’t exactly scream “aggressive” like the older M5s did.

Instead of a fresh, standout look, the design feels a little too calm, especially when you think about what the M5 used to represent. Some folks were hoping for something more striking or emotional — something with real presence. But the new G99 just doesn’t hit that note for everyone.

People online are comparing it to older M5s and saying this one’s just not giving off the same energy. It’s modern, sure — but where’s the edge?

A Throwback Design That’s Got Everyone Talking

There’s one twist that’s kind of exciting, though. A digital artist named Nikita Chuicko — who goes by kelsonik online — did this CGI render of the M5 Touring, and honestly, it’s getting a lot of love.

He basically reimagined the car with styling inspired by the classic E34 M5 from the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. Think squared-off headlights, a bold front grille, and a super clean but aggressive look. It blends old-school BMW character with the size and power of the modern M5.

It’s not real (yet), but a lot of people are saying, “Hey BMW, maybe take some notes?” You can tell there’s a real hunger for something that brings back that old-school charm while still pushing the performance forward.

Is This Really the M5 People Wanted?

Here’s the real question: is this new M5 what fans were waiting for? Yeah, it’s fast. It’s packed with tech. But some longtime M5 lovers feel like it’s missing that raw, driver-focused soul the car used to have.

More people seem to be leaning toward these virtual redesigns and retro-inspired concepts because they offer something the official model doesn’t — a bit of that old M5 spirit. That might be why CGI versions like kelsonik’s are getting so much attention.

In the end, BMW’s made something powerful and advanced, no doubt. But maybe — just maybe — what fans really want is something with a little more heart, even if it means dialing things back a bit.

FAQ

Yes, it's the first-ever plug-in hybrid M5, featuring a 717 hp combined output from a V8 engine and electric motor setup.

It weighs approximately 5,638 pounds (2,435 kg), making it the heaviest M5 in history.

This CGI rendering by kelsonik revives the retro E34 M5 design, adding bold new front-end styling and LED DRLs for a unique modern-retro twist.

Yes, BMW is expected to incorporate Neue Klasse design language in the upcoming 5 Series LCI, which will likely influence the M5 facelift too.

Yes, the M5 shares its plug-in hybrid setup with the BMW XM, including the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 and electric motor system.

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