2014 BMW M5

There are two trims available for purchase in the M5 model, and that is the base model as well as the new Competition Package that added some more features into it. In terms of features, it has cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and powered side mirrors, leather upholstery on the seat and steering wheel, heated seats, and much more. The competition model features a bit more in terms of performance features.

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The 2014 BMW M5 is available in two trim levels without a lot of difference between them. However, we recommend you purchase the Competition Package, which offers a 15 hp increase, a different exhaust system, unique 20-inch wheels, and minor chassis revisions. At a premium of almost $6,000, it is more performance-oriented and exhilarating than the base.

With the 2014 BMW M5, you get a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces around 560 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission which feels smooth and is quick during shifts. For the purists, a six-speed manual transmission is available at no extra cost. Those performance figures have been slightly improved this year, which makes it more competitive in the price range with other sport sedans. The M5 comes equipped with a RWD drivetrain as standard, while some of its rivals offer AWD drivetrains. 

In terms of ride and handling, the M5 delivers excellent results on all fronts. It performs smoothly despite the road conditions, and the body is stable in tight curves. When it comes to speed, the M5 is quick and powerful with a top speed of 190 MPH and a 0-60mph time of 3.7 seconds. Furthermore, there are two modes available in it, namely Sport mode and Comfort mode, allowing you to choose between more power or a smoother ride.

Even at its low price, the M5 is adequately powerful and it easily competes with some of its more expensive rivals. The 2014 Audi RS7 wins the battle with its performance though, as it can achieve 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds, which is the fastest in its segment, while the torquiest Mercedes-AMG E63 is only a millisecond slower. The Jaguar XF-R S is the most distinct sedan making use of a supercharged V8 unit, but is the slowest in the segment.

Compared with other cars in its class, the M5's fuel economy is not that impressive. Generally, it gets to only 14 mpg in the city while highway fuel efficiency is only 20 mpg. Similarly, the M5’s fuel tank measures 21.1 gallons, which is the average size for vehicles of this class. The driving range of this car is again significantly lower than any of the competition in this class. 

The 2014 RS7, again, gets better MPGs than its rivals, but its smaller tank capacity of 19-gallons costs it in terms of the overall range. It is the Mercedes-AMG E63 that manages to impress the most in terms of fuel efficiency as well as range averaging a mileage of 338 and 485 city and highway miles, respectively. On the other hand, the Jaguar XF-R S manages 18 MPG but its range in the city limits is underwhelming. 

Interior design plays a significant role in determining whether a sedan is good or not. BMW designed the 2014 M5 with that in mind, resulting in a nearly perfect interior. There are tons of functions and features inside the cabin that will require days to learn about. It has a neat and clean dashboard, and the layout is very similar to other BMW models where the design and placement are pretty much oriented toward the driver. Dual-color finishes on the dashboard add to its premium appearance. The seats and steering wheel are again bolstered in high-quality leather materials for ultimate luxury and comfort. It is also possible to cover the dashboard with leather, but the cost would be $1,200.

The spacious front row includes 16-way power-adjustable driver and passenger seats with lumbar support. Compared to the front, the rear feels a bit cramped and there is room for improvement in this area. The M5 has the least cargo space of 14 cu.-ft, in its class, and it is also considerably smaller than usual for a 5-seater sedan. Nonetheless, we cannot expect much here as this sedan is geared more towards performance.

The front row room is dominated by the M5 because of its large headroom, but the legroom is almost identical to all its rivals. There is a slight deficit in legroom between the M5 and RS7 in the second row, where the RS7 offers the most space. Once again the Audi offers the largest cargo capacity in its segment at 24.5 cubic feet, while the Jaguar and Mercedes have similar space as the BMW.

Standout interior features:

• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Power tilt-and-telescoping steering column
• 16-way power sport front seats
• Heated front seats with memory settings
• Remote keyless entry
• Leather Steering Wheel

How intuitive is the 2014 BMW M5’s infotainment unit?

In terms of design, the 2014 M5 looks very similar to other 5 Series models when it comes to its infotainment system. A large display is integrated with BMW's i-Drive system, which is easy to use. The 2014 M5 has the same high-quality display that BMW has always been known for. There is a 16 speaker surround sound system powered by Harman Kardon as standard equipment. 

Additionally, it has a Bluetooth feature you can use to connect with other devices. Moreover, there are a few optional features that you can choose from to upgrade certain features, such as Bang & Olufsen speakers which cost approximately $3,700. The rear-seat passengers can also have entertainment options that include LCD screens and cost around $2,200 more than the base MSRP.

Standout infotainment features:

• Navigation system
• Harman Kardon 16-speaker system
• BMW’s iDrive infotainment system
• USB ports
• Bluetooth

In terms of looks and styling, the 2014 BMW M5 is great in its own right, but it can't compete with some of its rivals. This car's front and rear profiles are both lacking in curves and aggressiveness that would have justified its power and acceleration. As standard, it has 19.0-inch wheels, but it is also available with 20.0-inch wheels that come with the Competition Package. Besides LED headlights and taillights, turn signal indicators were also incorporated into the side mirrors for this year. 

Additionally, the kidney grille's placement was lowered a bit and its vertical lines were modified this year. Opting for the Lighting package adds adaptive LED headlights with automatic high-beam control. Moreover, the Competition package adds a freer-breathing exhaust system, 20-inch wheels; a more aggressively tuned steering, suspension, and M differential, as well as black chrome tailpipes. You can also add carbon-ceramic brakes to the features list.

The M5 has a very balanced weight, and it is neither too heavy nor too light. Ground clearance is measured at 4.6 inches for the M5, which is good for this class. The M5's wheelbase of 116.7 inches, is again the largest of the lot and does translate to a lot of stability at high speeds. The RS7 manages to be a little lighter weighing 4,232 lbs although at 197.3 and 75.2 inches, it is longer and wider. While the 2014 Jaguar XF-R S is the tallest at 57.5 inches, the Mercedes-AMG E63 lies midway between the rivals in terms of dimensions. 

Standout exterior features:

• 19.0-inch wheels
• Power liftgate
• Turn signals on the side mirrors
• Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires
• LED Tail Lamps & Headlamps

In general, NHTSA or IIHS take some time to test a micro-niche-targeted vehicle. But, BMW's M5 is one of those expensive sedans that managed to land itself on the grounds of both testing agencies earlier than expected. NHTSA awarded it a 5-star rating thanks to its strong and enhanced platform, as well as top-notch safety technology. 

On the other hand, most of its sectors were rated ‘Good’ by the IIHS. Some segments are not yet tested by the IIHS, and therefore, the M5 did not earn any awards like "Top Safety Pick" from them. Apart from the standard list of features, you get the Driver Assistance Package that adds Forward Collision Management and Pedestrian Detection.

Standout safety features:

• Post-Collision Safety System
• Low Tire Pressure Warning
• Cross-Traffic Alert
• Blindspot information
• Lane Departure Warning System
• Engine Immobilizer

The 2014 BMW M5 is a great sports sedan with excellent power, luxury, safety, and convenience features, all at a relatively affordable price. Nevertheless, it lacks in various aspects, such as space, fuel efficiency, and looks. Some of its rivals, such as the Mercedes-AMG E63, don't cost nearly as much and have almost the same specs. The Audi RS7, however, is slightly more expensive than the M5, but it boasts the best combination of technological features, looks, and performance. Overall, we would say the M5 isn't bad in its class, but there are other options available that offer a better value for your money.