Top Gear Season 6 Episode 9: BMW M5 Faces Harsh Critique
Jeremy Clarkson tests the E60 BMW M5 against the Mercedes CLS, highlighting technical frustrations and performance, with the M5 posting a 1:26.2 lap time.
Top Gear’s ninth episode of season six, first broadcast in 2005, centred on the highly anticipated E60 BMW M5. This episode is remembered for its in-depth review of the M5, a car that was making headlines for its bold technology and immense power. Jeremy Clarkson took the super saloon through its paces, setting it up for a direct comparison with the Mercedes CLS, a rival matched to the M5 in price and performance bracket.
Introduction to Top Gear Season 6 Episode 9
BMW M5: Technology and Frustrations
The E60-generation BMW M5 was a showcase for BMW’s engineering ambitions. Fitted with a 5.0-litre V10 engine, it brought Formula 1-inspired technology to the road. However, Jeremy Clarkson’s review began on a critical note. He pointed out a series of frustrations with the M5’s controls and features. The car’s interior was dominated by complex electronic settings that controlled everything from the suspension to the engine response. Clarkson found these settings confusing and difficult to use, which detracted from the driving experience.
The sat-nav system was another source of irritation, proving more of a hindrance than a help. The automated manual gearbox, which was meant to offer both convenience and performance, was described as jerky and unrefined. Ride comfort was also criticised, with the M5 failing to deliver the smoothness expected of a high-end saloon. Exterior styling did not escape Clarkson’s scrutiny either; he called out the design as unattractive and also mentioned the non-cancelling indicator as a further annoyance.
In its default setting, the M5 produced 400 horsepower (300 kW), but Clarkson felt that the car’s performance did not live up to its impressive figures. He remarked that the sensation of speed was muted, leaving the car feeling less exciting than its numbers suggested.
Unlocking Full Performance with the M Button
Despite his initial disappointment, Clarkson’s review took a dramatic turn when he pressed the M button. This feature unlocked the M5’s full 507 horsepower (378 kW), sharpened the car’s suspension, and set the gearbox to its most aggressive mode. In this configuration, the M5 transformed into a true super saloon, delivering the thrilling performance that enthusiasts expected from the badge. However, this increase in capability came at a cost. The M5 proved fragile; it required repairs before it could complete a timed lap on the Top Gear test track. This raised concerns about the car’s reliability, particularly for owners who might want to use its full performance regularly.
Performance on the Top Gear Track
Once the necessary repairs were made, the M5 was handed over to the Stig for a timed lap. The car posted a time of 1:26.2, which was just enough to edge out the Mercedes CLS. This result demonstrated the M5’s speed when operating at its maximum potential. However, Clarkson concluded that the M5’s performance on the track did not compensate for its shortcomings as a daily driver. Reliability and user-friendliness were major concerns, especially given the car’s price and intended market.
Comparison: BMW M5 vs Mercedes CLS
| Feature | BMW M5 (E60) | Mercedes CLS |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.0L V10 | V8 (varies by model) |
| Power (max) | 507 hp (378 kW) | Comparable (less than M5) |
| Gearbox | Automated manual (jerky) | Automatic (smoother) |
| Lap Time (Top Gear) | 1:26.2 | Slightly slower |
| Comfort | Criticised | Better ride |
| Electronics | Complex, confusing | Simpler |
Legacy and Reception
The E60 BMW M5 remains a landmark car for its technological ambition and raw power. However, as highlighted in this Top Gear episode, its complexity and reliability issues limited its appeal for some buyers. Clarkson’s review captured the mixed feelings enthusiasts and reviewers had about the car: admiration for its performance, but frustration with its everyday usability. The episode stands as a snapshot of the era’s super saloon rivalry, with the M5 narrowly beating the CLS on the track but not winning universal praise.
