BMW’s M5 series has always been known for its precision engineering, aggressive styling, and unparalleled performance on the road. It’s the type of car enthusiasts dream of, a perfect blend of power and finesse. But with the 2025 model, BMW has faced an unexpected kind of backlash—the new M5 is getting body-shamed. The reason behind this criticism? It’s gained weight. And not just a little; the 2025 M5 is about 400 pounds heavier than its predecessor, and some are quick to joke that the car has become “fat.”
So, what’s behind the weight gain? The 2025 M5 features a new hybrid powertrain that combines a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with an electric motor. The result is a combined output of 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system offers a performance boost and better fuel efficiency, but it comes with an unintended side effect: added mass. Weighing in at around 5,390 pounds, the new M5 is significantly bulkier than the previous generation. As a result, critics have raised concerns about whether this extra weight will affect the car’s famous handling, which has always been a key selling point.
The term “fat” may seem like an exaggeration, but for some car enthusiasts, it represents a shift in what they expect from the M5. For years, the M5 has been the benchmark for sharp handling and performance on the road. With the added weight, many are wondering whether the car will still be as nimble and responsive as it once was. While the playful body-shaming may not be entirely serious, it does highlight a genuine debate about the future of the M5 and what makes a performance sedan truly great.
BMW has defended the M5’s new weight, explaining that the hybrid powertrain is necessary for improving fuel efficiency and lowering emissions, something that’s become more important in today’s automotive world. Frank van Meel, head of BMW’s M division, pointed out that the new M5 offers the perfect balance of performance and sustainability, which is why the company decided to include the hybrid engine. While the weight may have increased, the performance is still there, and the M5 is designed to meet modern demands for both power and eco-consciousness.
In terms of design, the M5 still looks every bit the high-performance sedan it’s always been. It retains the signature aggressive front grille, sculpted body, and quad exhaust outlets that make the car stand out. These elements aren’t just for looks—they serve important functions for aerodynamics and cooling. BMW’s engineers haven’t compromised the M5’s visual or functional identity, and while the car might be a little heftier, it still has the commanding presence that makes it unmistakably M.
The 2025 M5 represents a turning point for BMW, one where performance and eco-friendliness coexist. The weight increase is a reflection of this shift, and while it may spark some light-hearted jokes about the car being “fat,” it’s also an important step forward for the brand. The M5 remains a powerhouse, but it’s evolving to meet the future of automotive design. Whether fans will accept this new version or continue to poke fun at its extra pounds remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the M5 is adapting to the changing times while maintaining the thrilling performance it’s known for.
