2018 BMW M5: Friendlier on street, more ferocious on track

For 2018, the BMW M5 is all-new with a more powerful engine, all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission.

A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 powers the sport sedan making 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque.

While the previous M5 was available with a dual-clutch and manual transmissions, the new model uses an eight-speed automatic.

The move to a traditional automatic gearbox was in response to customers wanting smoother performance around town.

Switching to an all-wheel drive is another move made by the car makers based off of customer feedback.

However, to please the die-hard enthusiasts, the M xDrive system features a rear-wheel-drive mode that sends all the torque to the rear.

According to BMW, the new M5 can reach 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds.

The save weight aluminum is used for the hood and front fenders, while carbon fiber-reinforced plastic is used for the roof.

Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option, but require customers to upgrade to the optional 20-inch wheels, too.

The 2018 BMW M5 goes on sale next spring and will begin at $102,600, Destination costs is an additional $995.

See more shots of this car by continuing through the gallery.