BMW’s M5 equipped with a manual transmission won’t be coming to the UK, despite enthusiasts in the UK liking the idea of direct control over the sports saloons gears.
The M5’s manual ‘box is lifted straight out of the 550i and drives the rear wheels through the same rear diff as used in the dual-clutch DCT-equipped saloon.
With one fewer gears, however, the M5 manual has only one overdrive ratio — sixth — versus two in the DCT — sixth and seventh. The manual also dispenses with the DCT’s launch control, which has a marginally negative effect on the 0-60mph time.
According to BMW US, the manual is capable of 4.3secs versus 4.2 for the M5 DCT.
The US M5 will also have a larger fuel tank than the European version, capacity is up to 83 litres. The specially-fabricated stainless steel tank addresses a US customer criticism of the previous E60 M5’s poor touring range.
The new M5 won’t go on sale in the US until autumn, when the 2013 model year 5-series arrives with minor trim and spec improvements. And it will cost around $90k, a $4k hike over the E60. DCT and manual versions are priced the same.
