Likes
In a class of its own
Perfect manual transmission
Supercar handling and braking
Pulse-raising V-10 power
DislikesBland styling
Technology overload
SMG gearbox is rough
The high price of admission
The bad side of the 2009 M5 is the vehicle's overabundance of technology. BMW's semi-manual SMG transmission is only for fans of a truly harsh shift experience. The no-cost six-speed manual is a far better choice. It's a gem, with crisp throws, precise gates, perfectly arranged pedals, and surprisingly smooth clutch engagement. The technology that commands the suspension, steering, and throttle inputs offers a bewildering 279 combinations through an MDrive menu that can be linked to the steering wheel's MDrive button, which might as well be a panic button for users who can't figure it out. And finally, BMW's frustrating iDrive controller for audio, navigation, and climate settings needs its own manual.
With a higher price tag and a limited supply, the 2009 M5 will trouble very few folks with its bad and ugly sides. It's a shame more people won't have the chance to sample the good, as it's both a safe, secure sedan and a stunning performer, all the more fascinating due to its hugely obvious flaws.
Other Choices
If you like the 2009 BMW M5, also consider:
- Audi S6
- Jaguar XF Supercharged
- Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
Reason Why:The Audi S6 has a massively powerful V-8, but it's still a step slower than the BMW. The newly minted 500-horsepower Jaguar XF-R is far more handsome. The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG comes closest to the performance of the BMW M5 and looks better going about it.
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Review was originally published at TheCarConnection.com
© 2009 TheCarConnection.com