BMW M5 G90
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The BMW M5 G90 (from 2024) is the most technically ambitious M5 ever — and the most divisive. First time: plug-in hybrid, AWD only (no rear-drive mode), curb weight 2,435 kg / 5,368 lbs. Combined output: 727 hp (S68B44 V8 + e-motor), 0–60 in 3.5 seconds, 738 lb-ft.
The weight problem: 2,435 kg is not abstract — you feel it. Power-to-weight: 299 hp/ton vs 323 for the F90. More braking distance, noticeable body roll in fast corners. BMW calibrated the electronics brilliantly, but the lightweight sports car character is gone. The G90 is more GT with M ambitions.
Two recalls in year one: Wiring harness fire risk (58,713 US vehicles, Feb 2026). Steering spindle fracture (production June–Sept 2024). Verify BOTH before purchase.
Software risk: Documented complete shutdown after OTA update (March 2025) — required towing. Typical for immature software ecosystem.
Too new for real reliability data. Buying now means early-adopter risk. Alternative: the F90 is a proven, lighter M5 without hybrid complexity.
2026 market: MSRP from $120,675. Fully optioned $145,000+. Used: extremely limited. PHEV delivers ~51 g/km CO₂ — significant company car tax benefits in Europe.
Insider pick: Wait. For an M5 in 2026, buy the F90 — proven, lighter, cheaper, no hybrid risk.
727 PS
M5 · Benzin
727 hp, 2,450 kg — physics cannot be outsmarted
Fun to Drive!Body Variants
The BMW M5 G90 is available as Sedan and Touring — choose your body type for specific insurance data:
Generations
Engine Overview
The BMW M5 G90 is available with 2 engine variants — from 286 to 660 hp.
The S68B44 is BMW's most complex M engine to date: 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo coupled to a 48V mild hybrid system, up to 727 hp system output in the G90 M5. The hybrid isolation takes some of the V8 character — silent in EV mode, in Sport mode a muted V8 growl that never reaches the rawness of an S62 or the sharpness of an S85. The power delivery is brutally linear: no turbo lag, no hesitation, but also no climax in the rev band — thrust from bottom to top, full stop. 2,450 kg kerb weight cannot be argued away: in tight corners, under braking, on turn-in — the weight is always there. The 14.8 kWh battery enables around 40 km of EV range for everyday use, which drastically reduces consumption. Oil changes every 10,000 km; cooling circuit complexity (combustion engine + electric motor + battery + gearbox = 4 separate circuits) becomes a cost factor at higher mileages.
- !! Recall: Integrated Brake System Module (NHTSA 24V-104)
The IBS module may not function to specification, reducing power brake assist and disabling ABS/DSC. Extended stopping distances possible. BMW replaces module free of charge.
Symptoms: Noticeably harder brake pedal, extended stopping distances, ABS/DSC warning lights on dashboard - !! Recall: Steering Spindle Double Universal Joint (NHTSA 24V-714)
The steering spindle double universal joint may not meet specifications. During certain steering maneuvers the swivel socket can be damaged, causing unexpectedly stiff or jerky steering.
Symptoms: Sudden heavy or notchy steering feel, increased steering resistance at certain lock angles - !! Twin-turbo stress under aggressive use from 100,000 km
The twin-scroll turbochargers of the S68B44 are designed for high sustained output in M mode, but react sensitively to inadequate oil supply. Frequent full-load driving without a cool-down phase significantly increases bearing risk.
Symptoms: Whistling under acceleration, blue exhaust smoke, power drop, oil pressure warning.
+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The S68B44 is BMW's most complex M engine to date: 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo coupled to a 48V mild hybrid system, up to 727 hp system output in the G90 M5. The hybrid isolation takes some of the V8 character — silent in EV mode, in Sport mode a muted V8 growl that never reaches the rawness of an S62 or the sharpness of an S85. The power delivery is brutally linear: no turbo lag, no hesitation, but also no climax in the rev band — thrust from bottom to top, full stop. 2,450 kg kerb weight cannot be argued away: in tight corners, under braking, on turn-in — the weight is always there. The 14.8 kWh battery enables around 40 km of EV range for everyday use, which drastically reduces consumption. Oil changes every 10,000 km; cooling circuit complexity (combustion engine + electric motor + battery + gearbox = 4 separate circuits) becomes a cost factor at higher mileages.
- !! Recall: Integrated Brake System Module (NHTSA 24V-104)
The IBS module may not function to specification, reducing power brake assist and disabling ABS/DSC. Extended stopping distances possible. BMW replaces module free of charge.
Symptoms: Noticeably harder brake pedal, extended stopping distances, ABS/DSC warning lights on dashboard - !! Recall: Steering Spindle Double Universal Joint (NHTSA 24V-714)
The steering spindle double universal joint may not meet specifications. During certain steering maneuvers the swivel socket can be damaged, causing unexpectedly stiff or jerky steering.
Symptoms: Sudden heavy or notchy steering feel, increased steering resistance at certain lock angles - !! Twin-turbo stress under aggressive use from 100,000 km
The twin-scroll turbochargers of the S68B44 are designed for high sustained output in M mode, but react sensitively to inadequate oil supply. Frequent full-load driving without a cool-down phase significantly increases bearing risk.
Symptoms: Whistling under acceleration, blue exhaust smoke, power drop, oil pressure warning.
+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Recall: wiring harness fire risk BMW recalled G90 M5 vehicles because an incorrectly routed cockpit wiring harness can be damaged during cabin filter replacement. Short circuit can lead to fire. KBA 16187R. Symptoms: Air conditioning fault after cabin filter replacement, smoke from the dashboard | Medium | |
| PHEV additional weight impairs driving dynamics The M5 G90 weighs around 2,435 kg as a PHEV — approximately 500 kg more than the predecessor F90. In tight corners the car pushes over the front wheels. The PHEV system is still very young; long-term data is lacking. Symptoms: Vehicle pushes over the front wheels in tight corners, increased tyre wear, vehicle requires more planning when braking. | Medium | |
| Recall: steering spindle can break An incorrectly manufactured double universal joint in the steering spindle can break and lead to stiff or jerky steering. KBA 14353R. Symptoms: Stiff or jerky steering movements, more difficult vehicle response in corners | Medium |
Alternatives
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 36 weaknesses have been documented for the BMW M5 G90 (2024–2026) — 29 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Other, Electronics, Brakes, Suspension.
M5 (S68B44, 2024–2026) — Be Careful: Recall: Integrated Brake System Module (NHTSA 24V-104), Recall: Steering Spindle Double Universal Joint (NHTSA 24V-714), Twin-turbo stress under aggressive use. Power: 584 PS.
What to watch out for with the BMW M5? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee