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In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the M5 badge, BMW has unveiled an all-new M5. This is the 7th generation M5 and it’s arguably the most radical (and controversial) yet. We begin with the powertrain because, for the first time, the M5 is a plug-in hybrid. Yes, the onward creep of electrification is inevitable. But happily, we still have .  This is complemented by an electric motor built into the eight-speed automatic transmission. . Together, the V8 and electric motor deliver a total combined output of 717hp and 1000nm of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels, but there’s still a rear-wheel-drive-only mode. That sounds a lot, and it is. However, because than its predecessor – 2,435kg to be exact – it goes from – 0.2 seconds slower than the outgoing M5 Competition.  The top speed is electronically limited to 250km as standard, but it can be raised to 305km/h if owners tick the M Driver’s Package when spec’ing their cars. One reason for all that weight is the that is under the floor. BMW claims it’s enough to provide up to and it can travel at speeds of up to 140km/h. This is handy in the context of Singapore since this means it’s entirely possible to make trips without ever firing up the M5’s monster V8. Although anyone who ever does that in an M5 probably needs to get his or her head checked. In terms of styling, the M5 is clearly closely related to the regular 5 series. But you can easily differentiate it thanks to its more aggressive-looking grille, large air intakes, and trademark quad-exhausts in the rear. The front and rear tracks are also wider by 75mm and 48mm respectively. Overall, this new M5 is surely more controversial than the time BMW decided to put a turbo engine in the F10 M5. Sure, the hybrid powertrain makes the new M5 more economical and arguably more practical, but I’m not sure these qualities should be an M5’s priority. What’s worrying is how much weight it has gained and that it isn’t any faster in a straight line than the car it replaces.  Production will start in July at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, and deliveries will start later this year just before Christmas. Prices start at in the US.  No word yet on local availability and pricing, but there’s a good chance the car will be launched at next year’s Singapore Motor Show.