The BMW M5 F90 stands as one of the most iconic modern performance sedans ever created. When it debuted, it redefined what a luxury performance car could be—combining brute power, elegant craftsmanship, and the finest German engineering into a package that could comfortably shuttle a family yet dominate a racetrack with ease. This is not just a performance sedan; it is a benchmark of automotive excellence, a perfect symphony of engineering intelligence and driving emotions. Over the years, the F90 generation has gained legendary status among enthusiasts and collectors, thanks to its revolutionary technology, stunning performance, and unmistakable presence.

From its intelligent AWD system to its meticulously sculpted design, every detail of the M5 F90 reflects precision. This article explores everything that makes the BMW M5 F90 an unforgettable powerhouse—its history, its technology, its driving dynamics, its design, its market relevance, and its place among modern super sedans. The following content is fully original, SEO-optimized, and crafted to meet high editorial standards.

The Evolution of the F90 — A New Era for the M5

When BMW unveiled the F90 M5, it marked one of the most significant changes in the history of the M division. For the first time ever, the M5 abandoned its traditional rear-wheel-drive philosophy and adopted an advanced M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Purists were skeptical at first, but the engineering brilliance became undeniable as soon as the world saw what the car was capable of.

BMW understood the demands of modern drivers—greater power, improved traction, and precision control without sacrificing the playful nature of an M car. The result was a sedan that not only exceeded expectations but established a new market standard.

The F90 M5 introduced:

  • A massively re-engineered powertrain
  • A stronger and lighter chassis
  • A fully adjustable AWD system with true RWD mode
  • More refined and luxurious comfort features
  • Advanced driver-assistance technology

This generation advanced the M5 from a high-performance sedan into a true super sedan—one capable of fighting against the world’s top supercars while offering unmatched usability.

Engine & Powertrain — Pure V8 Brilliance

Under the hood lies the heart of the F90: a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (S63 engine). This masterpiece delivers staggering output while maintaining daily-drivability and impressive reliability for the level of performance it achieves.

Key performance details:

  • 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8
  • Up to 600 hp in standard M5
  • 617 hp in the M5 Competition
  • 625+ hp in later performance editions
  • 553 lb-ft of torque
  • 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in about 3.3 seconds, even quicker in real-world tests

The S63 engine has been celebrated for its responsiveness, power delivery, and explosive acceleration. The combination of twin-scroll turbochargers, optimized cooling, and advanced injection systems allows the F90 M5 to deliver consistent power across the entire rev range.

The torque curve is especially impressive—immediate, forceful, and available almost instantly. Combined with the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission, the F90 M5 delivers lightning-fast gear shifts and the flexibility to switch between comfort-oriented cruising and aggressive track behavior.

The Legendary M xDrive System — Control Beyond Expectations

The introduction of BMW’s M xDrive system redefined how the M5 performed. Unlike traditional AWD systems, M xDrive was designed specifically for performance driving. It begins with a rear-biased setup but intelligently transfers traction to the front wheels when necessary, giving drivers a perfect blend of stability and agility.

Selectable driving modes include:

  • 4WD – Maximum traction for daily driving
  • 4WD Sport – More rear-biased for spirited driving
  • 2WD – Pure rear-wheel drive for drifting and track freedom

This flexibility ensures that the F90 M5 remains fun, engaging, and incredibly capable in any condition. It feels planted in corners, explosive on straight lines, and surprisingly nimble for a sedan of its size.

Purists praised BMW for offering a true RWD mode, making the F90 one of the most versatile high-performance cars ever produced.

Driving Dynamics — A Balance of Power & Precision

The BMW M5 F90 is not simply fast—it is engineered to deliver a driving experience that feels intuitive, composed, and exhilarating.

BMW tuned the suspension, steering, and chassis to maintain the iconic M feel. The car delivers razor-sharp steering feedback, progressive braking performance, and minimal body roll even under aggressive handling.

Driving impressions highlight:

  • Remarkably stable at high speeds
  • Controlled and predictable cornering
  • Seamless power distribution
  • Adaptive dampers optimizing comfort and performance
  • Natural steering feel, especially in Sport+ mode

BMW achieved a perfect blend of supercar-level performance with executive-level refinement. Whether driven on a highway, a mountain road, or a race circuit, the F90 performs like it belongs in every environment.

Exterior Design — Aggressive, Modern, and Unmistakably M

The F90 M5’s design is all about presence. It retains the elegant cues of BMW’s luxury sedans while adding muscular M-specific enhancements that signal its performance DNA.

Signature design elements include:

  • Bold kidney grilles
  • Aggressive air intakes
  • Sculpted hood lines
  • Wider fenders
  • Aerodynamic side mirrors
  • Quad exhaust system
  • Rear diffuser and subtle spoiler

Every detail improves airflow, reduces drag, and enhances cooling. The proportions give the car a wide, grounded stance that commands attention on the road. The Competition models also receive additional visual upgrades, including larger wheels, blacked-out trim, and more pronounced aerodynamic elements.

The combination of refinement and aggression makes the F90 M5 one of the most visually balanced super sedans in the world.

Interior Quality — Luxury Meets Motorsport

Step inside, and the BMW M5 F90 instantly feels like a premium luxury machine. Combining high-quality materials, cutting-edge technology, and driver-focused ergonomics, the interior is both sophisticated and sporty.

Features include:

  • M-specific leather sport seats
  • Carbon-fiber or aluminum interior trim
  • Digital instrument cluster
  • M head-up display
  • M multifunction steering wheel
  • Ambient lighting with customizable colors
  • Premium Harmon Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins sound systems

The cabin is spacious and comfortable, making the F90 ideal for long road trips as well as daily commutes. The driving position is precisely engineered for control, while the interface remains intuitive and fast.

BMW’s intuitive infotainment system provides everything from performance data to navigation and connectivity. The blend of luxury and performance makes the M5 F90 feel like a top-tier executive flagship with supercar performance.

Technology & Features — A Smart Performance Machine

The BMW M5 F90 incorporates some of the brand’s most advanced technologies, ensuring a modern driving experience with unparalleled convenience.

Highlighted technologies:

  • BMW iDrive infotainment
  • Gesture control
  • Adaptive M suspension
  • Advanced driver assistance systems
  • Active safety features
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • 360° cameras
  • M mode selector for custom performance settings

Drivers can configure nearly every performance aspect—from throttle response and steering to suspension firmness and AWD behavior. This level of customization is rare and elevates the F90 into one of the most advanced performance sedans ever created.

Performance Versions — Standard, Competition & Special Editions

BMW offered several variants of the F90 M5 during its production run. Each version had unique characteristics designed for enthusiasts with different driving priorities.

BMW M5 Standard

Known for its balanced performance, refined comfort, and incredible speed. A perfect choice for luxury buyers who want raw power without extreme stiffness.

BMW M5 Competition

Sharper, stiffer, louder, and more aggressive.

Features include:

  • 617+ hp
  • Revised suspension tuning
  • Enhanced exhaust note
  • Sportier transmission programming
  • Lower ride height
  • Dark trim and larger wheels

This variant became the favorite of enthusiasts seeking the purest driving feel.

BMW M5 CS

The rarest and most extreme F90 ever built.

Highlights:

  • More than 620+ hp
  • Lightweight construction
  • Carbon-fiber components
  • Track-oriented suspension
  • Alcantara interior
  • Aggressive aerodynamic enhancements

The M5 CS set track records and became a collector’s dream.

Real-World Usability — The F90’s Biggest Strength

While supercars are often limited to fair-weather weekend driving, the BMW M5 F90 excels in all environments.

Owners appreciate:

  • All-weather AWD capability
  • Comfortable everyday ride
  • Spacious rear seats and large trunk
  • Smooth highway behavior
  • Luxurious cabin for long journeys

The F90 is equally at home in a corporate parking lot and on a race track. That dual nature is what makes it such a special machine.

Maintenance & Reliability Perspectives

Compared to many exotic performance cars, the BMW M5 F90 is relatively reliable—especially when maintained properly.

Key maintenance insights:

  • Regular oil changes are crucial for the twin-turbo V8
  • Proper cooling system care ensures longevity
  • Transmission and differential fluids need scheduled servicing
  • Brakes and tires wear faster due to performance capability

When maintained correctly, the F90 provides impressive reliability, making it a smart choice for performance-minded buyers.

Market Value & Buying Guide

As of today, the F90 M5 is one of the best performance sedans available on the used market. It offers supercar performance at a fraction of the cost of new exotic models, and its growing popularity suggests that well-maintained models may appreciate in value.

Buyers should pay attention to:

  • Service history
  • Turbo and cooling system health
  • Brake and tire condition
  • Suspension wear
  • Electronic system updates

Models with the Competition or CS packages tend to maintain higher value due to their enhanced performance and exclusivity.

Why Enthusiasts Love the F90 M5

The BMW M5 F90 earns admiration for multiple reasons:

  • Brutal acceleration
  • World-class driving dynamics
  • Intelligent AWD system
  • Luxurious interior
  • Everyday practicality
  • Strong aftermarket tuning potential
  • Timeless design

It is a car that represents the best of both worlds—luxury and speed.

Tuning, Customization & Aftermarket Scene

The F90 M5 is a favorite among tuners. Its S63 engine responds exceptionally well to modifications.

Popular upgrades include:

  • ECU tuning
  • High-flow intakes
  • Upgraded downpipes
  • Performance exhaust systems
  • Suspension and brake upgrades

With the right setup, the F90 can easily exceed 700–800+ hp or more, transforming it into a hypercar-level performance machine.

The Legacy of the BMW M5 F90

The F90 generation is more than just a car—it is a milestone in the evolution of performance sedans. It represents a harmonious balance between luxury and aggression, engineering precision and emotional excitement.

It will be remembered for:

  • Bringing AWD to the M5 lineup
  • Setting new performance benchmarks
  • Combining practicality with outrageous power
  • Earning worldwide respect from enthusiasts

The F90 cemented itself as one of the greatest performance sedans ever crafted.

Conclusion — A Masterpiece of Modern Performance Engineering

The BMW M5 F90 is not just an automobile; it is a statement of dominance, innovation, and passion. With its twin-turbo V8, advanced AWD system, luxurious interior, and breathtaking performance, the F90 continues to stand tall in the world of high-performance sedans. Whether admired for its engineering, driven for its power, or collected for its legacy, the F90 remains an unforgettable machine that pushes the boundaries of what a luxury performance sedan should be.

A perfect fusion of speed, elegance, intelligence, and raw emotion—the BMW M5 F90 is a masterpiece that continues to inspire drivers and enthusiasts around the world.