The BMW M5 has always been a paradox—a family sedan with the heart of a track monster. But for 2025, BMW’s engineers have outdone themselves, crafting an interior that feels like a spaceship fused with a five-star hotel. After slipping behind the wheel at BMW’s Munich design studio, here’s everything you need to know about the cabin of the new M5—and why it might just redefine luxury performance.
Design & Materials: Where Carbon Fiber Meets Couture
The Look: Minimalist, But Menacing
BMW ditched the flashy chrome and wood trim of older models for a darker, driver-focused vibe:
- Carbon Fiber Everywhere: The dashboard, center console, and door panels are wrapped in glossy BMW Carbon Core trim. Even the gear shifter is carbon.
- Ambient Lighting: 32 color options, including an exclusive M Signature Red that pulses in Sport+ mode.
- Hidden Vents: Airflow controls are tucked behind sleek hexagonal mesh—no clunky knobs.
Materials That Scream “Money”
- Merino Leather: Ultra-soft, diamond-stitched seats with M5 logos embroidered into the headrests.
- Alcantara Headliner: Standard on all trims (a first for the M5).
- Sustainable Touches: Recycled microfiber accents and eco-friendly dyes.
First Impressions: It’s like a tailored suit—sharp, purposeful, and dripping with confidence.
Tech & Infotainment: iDrive 9 Takes Over
The 2025 M5 debuts BMW’s latest iDrive 9 system, and it’s a game-changer:
- Curved Display: A single 14.9-inch touchscreen flows into a 12.3-inch digital cluster behind the wheel.
- Augmented Reality HUD: Projects turn-by-turn arrows onto the road and highlights track corners in Sport mode.
- Voice Control: Say “Hey BMW, attack mode” to stiffen suspension, lower windows, and blast the exhaust.
The Good & The Glitchy
- Wireless Charging Pad: Fits even the bulkiest iPhone Pro Max.
- No Apple CarPlay?: BMW is sticking with Android Auto for now, but promises CarPlay via update.
- Lag-Free: The new Snapdragon chip makes menus feel instant.
Seats & Comfort: Racing Thrones for Daily Life
Front Seats: 18-Way Adjustable Sculptures
- Cooling & Massage: Even the base model gets ventilated seats with 3D-printed cushion inserts.
- Side Bolsters: Electrically tighten during hard cornering to keep you planted.
Back Seats: Not an Afterthought
- Legroom: 36.5 inches (same as a Honda Accord) with optional heated seats.
- Tablet Controllers: Rear passengers adjust climate, audio, and ambient lighting via fold-out screens.
Who It’s For: Families who want to school minivans at stoplight drag races.
Customization: Build Your Perfect M5
BMW’s Individual Manufaktur program lets you go wild:
- Leather Colors: 50+ options, including Aventurine Red and Frozen Black.
- Seatbelts: Match them to your exterior paint (yes, even neon yellow).
- Trims: Choose between carbon fiber, matte titanium, or open-pore walnut.
Pro Tip: The M5 Edition 50 (limited to 500 units) adds gold stitching and a plaque signed by BMW’s M Division CEO.
Practicality: Surprising Family-Friendly Touches
- Storage: Deep door pockets, a heated/cooled cup holder, and a hidden safe under the passenger seat.
- Trunk Space: 14.9 cubic feet (fits 3 golf bags or 2 large suitcases).
- Dog Mode: Keeps the AC running if you leave pets inside (display shows cabin temp).
How It Stacks Up: BMW M5 vs. Mercedes-AMG E63
| Feature | 2025 BMW M5 | 2025 Mercedes-AMG E63 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $125,000 | $128,000 |
| Infotainment | iDrive 9 + AR HUD | MBUX Hyperscreen |
| Seats | 18-way adjustable | 16-way adjustable |
| Customization | 50+ leather colors | 12 leather colors |
| Cargo Space | 14.9 cu ft | 13.1 cu ft |
Verdict: The M5 edges out the E63 with more tech and customization, but the Merc’s Hyperscreen is flashier.
Price & Availability: How to Get One
- Starting Price: $125,000 (U.S. deliveries begin March 2025).
- Options That Hurt:
- Bowers & Wilkins Audio: $4,500.
- Executive Pack: $8,000 (massage seats, laser headlights, night vision).
- Leasing: BMW Financial offers 1,599/monthwith5k down.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy This?
Yes If…
- You want a daily driver that moonlights as a track car.
- You’re a tech geek who craves AR dashboards and voice-controlled exhausts.
- You’re okay with explaining “Yes, it’s a BMW” to every cop who pulls you over.
No If…
- You need third-row seats (check out the X5 M instead).
- You hate attention (this interior is a conversation starter).
- You’re on a budget (even oil changes cost $400).
The Bigger Picture: BMW’s High-Stakes Bet
The 2025 M5 isn’t just a car—it’s BMW’s answer to electric sedans like the Tesla Model S Plaid. By doubling down on hybrid power (yes, there’s a V8 plug-in hybrid under the hood) and next-gen tech, BMW is betting that drivers still crave raw engine growls paired with silent EV cruising.
For now, the M5’s interior sets a new standard. But with Mercedes and Audi hot on its tail, BMW can’t afford to coast
