THE idea of an executive car with all the luxurious trim levels plus awesome super car performance was without precedent when BMW launched its M series in the mid-80s.
But the latest model takes these refinements to a whole new playing field. The new M5 is the first ever saloon car to offer a high revving V10 engine and a seven-speed sequential gearbox.
This may sound a little on the technical side but to say there are many similarities between the M5 engine and that of the BMW Williams F1 car would be no exaggeration.
In fact if we had super-heroes this would be the car they would drive. For it even has a "power" switch which gives it an added boost - like it really needs it - leaving everything in its wake.
The model supplied for the test came in Indianapolis Red, one of the four exclusive exterior colours BMW has adopted for the car.
Inside the luxury is all around from the seats clad in Merino leather - available in four colour choices - which can be manoeuvred in many ways to find the perfect driving position.
These seats have memory settings, heating and lumbar support.
The controls and dials, from stereo and sat nav to climate control, are all easily operated through one main menu, but my favourite feature - and this is going to take some beating - is the new Head-up Display. In other words your speed is displayed like a hologram onto the windscreen just above the wheel. How cool is that?
And as expected the list of safety features is almost endless including eight airbags, seat belt force limiters for front and rear seats, intelligent safety electronics along with dynamic stability control and dynamic traction control and a host of other safety specifications.
My only critisicm was the flat tyre warning light was activated shortly after delivery. Despite not having a puncture, this warning was impossible to over-ride without a visit to a main dealer. Yet, in hindsight, this was no real hardship considering it's a feature that could prove invaluable.
All in all, a great car, a great drive and a great looker - but be warned, the fuel costs will make a great dent in your finances.
FAST FACTS
BMW 5-Series M5
Price: £63,495
Mechanical: 507bhp, 4,999cc, 10 cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 7spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 155mph
0-62mph: 4.7 secs
Combined mpg: 19.1
Insurance group: 20
CO2 emissions: 357g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage, 3yrs paint, 3yrs anti-rust