Video Test: BMW’s M5 on the track

BMW M-Powered cars attract adjectives like "legendary" and "iconic", but whatever about the merits of the hyperbole the performance division of BMW is recognised for its benchmark engineering prowess.

When the firm first announced that its latest fifth-generation M5 would be powered by a V8, downsized from its predecessor’s glorious V10 engine, there was some scepticism as to whether it may loose some of its appeal. Enthusiasts need not have worried, this all-new M5 is a far superior machine then any of its precursors.

The engine size may have been reduced but importantly power has been increased by 10 per cent, its 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine produces 560hp and 680Nm of torque, mind-blowing figures for a family saloon. Despite having more power this new model has improved its efficiency and reduced fuel consumption by 30 per cent, BMW claim a combined fuel consumption of 9.9L/100km (28.5 mpg).

The entire car’s power is transferred to the rear wheels through a seven-speed double-clutch transmission, complete with a multi-plate limited slip differential that works at lightening speed to control wheelspin and keep the car balanced.

The M5 sits low on 19-inch alloys tucked under flared wheel arches, behind the wheels the blue six-piston brake callipers hint at the car’s performance capabilities. With prices commencing from €135,280 naturally you’re rewarded with a decent level of standard specification, Head-up display, Xenon headlights, heated leather seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and Professional Multimedia Navigation, are all included.

In order to put the M5 through its paces we took it on track around Mondello Park’s International Circuit where we could explore its limits in a safe and controlled environment.