Sports cars are fantastic for those who crave speed and the thrill of driving, but they don’t always work well for families. If you’ve got kids, extra passengers, or just need more space, a low-slung two-door sports car isn’t the most practical choice.
Sure, they deliver incredible performance and sleek design, but day-to-day life can demand something more versatile. This is where the appeal of high-performance sedans and station wagons comes into play.
These types of cars have always struck a balance between practicality and power. They offer the convenience of four doors, roomy back seats for family or friends, and a sizable trunk that can carry all the essentials, whether it’s groceries, luggage for a road trip, or sports equipment.
Yet, despite their family-friendly nature, they pack enough horsepower under the hood to thrill even the most demanding gearhead. Combining speed, luxury, and comfort, performance sedans and wagons are the answer to those who don’t want to compromise between power and practicality.
However, when you pit one of these sedans against a sports car as commanding as the Corvette C8, things get trickier. The C8, with its mid-engine layout and lightweight design, is one of the most capable sports cars on the market.
It’s engineered to be fast, hitting 0-60 mph in just under three seconds. For most family cars, keeping up with such speed requires some form of electrical assistance. The addition of hybrid systems to performance sedans has allowed them to compete with high-end sports cars, boosting both horsepower and acceleration.
But not everyone is keen on hybrid powertrains. Purists still love the sound, feel, and experience of a naturally aspirated V8 engine—a symbol of raw automotive power. The deep growl of a V8, the instant torque, and the overall driving experience it delivers have a unique charm.
For those enthusiasts, the increasing shift to hybrids and electric vehicles in performance cars has been a tough pill to swallow. Yet, in the segment of sedans, one car stands out as a beacon for V8 lovers, a car that needs no electrical help to keep up with a brand-new Corvette C8.
This exceptional sedan is the last of its kind—a non-hybrid, V8-powered four-door that can deliver exhilarating speed while still handling the duties of a family car. It’s designed for those who want both speed and space, who don’t want to give up the deep rumble of a powerful V8 engine.
While hybrids and electric motors may offer advantages in efficiency and sometimes in outright performance, there’s still something undeniably special about a V8 that can hold its own on the track or the open road, without relying on batteries or electric motors.
What’s even more impressive about this sedan is that it can go toe-to-toe with the Corvette C8 in terms of performance, especially when it comes to that coveted 0-60 mph time.
Unlike other sedans that require hybrid systems to close the gap, this car’s naturally aspirated V8 engine has enough raw power to make it a legitimate contender. It combines the power and handling needed to challenge a sports car with the practicality and comfort required for everyday driving.
It’s not just about speed—it’s about delivering an experience that brings together the best of both worlds.
For gearheads who want it all—speed, power, and practicality—this V8 sedan represents the best option left on the market. It’s a rare gem in a world where performance cars are increasingly moving towards hybridization or full electrification.
So, if you’re someone who craves the roar of a V8 and the thrill of raw performance but still needs to get the family around in comfort, this car is your answer.
2023 BMW M5 CS The Supercar Killer in a Luxury Sedan
If you’re in the market for a car that can not only match but outperform a Corvette C8 in terms of raw speed while still handling everyday tasks with ease, the 2023 BMW M5 CS stands out as one of the best options available.
Combining blistering pace with four-door practicality, the M5 CS is the ultimate “supercar in a suit.” It’s a traditional performance car that stays true to its roots by avoiding hybrid technology, relying solely on its potent twin-turbo V8 for power.
The BMW M5 CS takes the already impressive M5 and pushes it even further. Under the hood, it houses a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that churns out a massive 626 horsepower.
That’s a significant bump from the regular M5’s 600 hp, thanks to some expert tuning by BMW’s M Division. Torque remains identical to the standard M5, with 553 lb-ft of twisting force on tap. This aluminum V8 is a powerhouse, offering raw, brutal power in a sedan that’s just as comfortable on the highway as it is on a racetrack.
Now, compare this to the Corvette C8, a car that’s regarded as one of the most impressive sports cars in recent memory. The base 2024 Corvette C8 comes equipped with a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8, which produces a respectable 495 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
While these are impressive figures, they fall short of what the M5 CS brings to the table. On paper, the BMW’s extra horsepower and torque give it a clear advantage over the Corvette, at least when it comes to pure straight-line speed.
But there’s more to the story than just horsepower numbers. The Corvette C8 is lighter than the M5 CS, tipping the scales at just 3,647 pounds. That’s nearly 400 pounds lighter than the M5 CS, which weighs in at 4,021 pounds despite being the lightest version of the M5.
This weight difference is primarily due to the Corvette’s smaller, two-door design and lack of rear seats. Meanwhile, the M5 CS offers the practicality of four doors and a spacious interior, making it much more versatile for everyday use.
Even with its extra weight, the BMW M5 CS manages to outpace the Corvette in a sprint. The M5 CS can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, while the Corvette C8 takes slightly longer at 2.9 seconds.
This marginally faster acceleration is partly thanks to the M5’s all-wheel-drive system, which provides superior traction, especially when launching from a standstill. The Corvette, by contrast, is rear-wheel drive, which makes it a bit more challenging to hook up all that power at launch.
The M5 CS isn’t just built for straight-line speed, though. BMW’s engineers have fine-tuned the chassis and suspension to ensure the car can handle corners just as well as it accelerates.
The M5 CS has been stiffened and lightened, with upgraded brakes and suspension to give it the edge in the bends. Whether you’re taking it on a winding backroad or pushing it to its limits on the track, the M5 CS delivers a driving experience that’s both thrilling and precise.
While the Corvette C8 is undoubtedly an excellent sports car, the 2023 BMW M5 CS offers a more well-rounded package. It’s faster to 60 mph, has more power, and brings the added benefit of everyday practicality.
Whether you’re running errands or chasing supercars on the highway, the M5 CS proves that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for performance. This sedan isn’t just a luxury car—it’s a supercar in disguise.
The 2023 BMW M5 CS Lean, Mean, and Built for Performance
The 2023 BMW M5 CS is not just another trim level in the M5 lineup—it’s the leanest, meanest version ever produced. BMW’s engineers took everything that makes the standard M5 great and fine-tuned it to create a more agile, responsive, and powerful machine.
The M5 CS isn’t just about raw speed; it’s about enhancing every aspect of performance, from handling to braking, all while shedding significant weight.
To sharpen the car’s agility, BMW started by stiffening the springs compared to the standard M5. This gives the M5 CS a firmer ride, but it also makes the car much more responsive to driver inputs. The adaptive dampers were also tweaked to match the new suspension setup, ensuring the car maintains a balance between performance and comfort.
These changes make the M5 CS not only faster in a straight line but also more confident when attacking corners.
Another crucial update is the introduction of a beefier anti-roll bar at the rear. This component, combined with tougher mounts up front, increases the rigidity of the chassis. In simple terms, this means the M5 CS feels tighter and more composed when you’re pushing it hard.
Instead of the rubber bushes found in the regular M5, the rear axle of the CS features ball joints, which further sharpen the car’s handling and give the driver a more connected, precise driving experience.
The steering system in the M5 CS also received attention. BMW made adjustments to the electric power steering, giving it a quicker ratio, which translates to more direct steering response.
The result is a car that feels more nimble and agile, making it easier to maneuver at high speeds or in tight corners. Every input from the driver feels immediately translated to the road, making for a more engaging driving experience.
BMW didn’t just focus on handling improvements—they also put the M5 CS on a serious weight-loss program. A total of 324 pounds was shaved off the car compared to the standard M5, making it lighter and more nimble.
One of the main contributors to this weight reduction is the carbon fiber roof, which is much lighter than the aluminum panels used in the base model. This change not only helps reduce the car’s overall weight but also lowers its center of gravity, improving stability during high-speed maneuvers.
To handle the added performance, the M5 CS is equipped with BMW’s M-developed carbon ceramic brakes. These brakes are not only lighter than the standard M5’s brakes, but they also offer superior performance.
Carbon ceramic brakes are highly resistant to heat, which means they can endure hard, repeated braking without losing their effectiveness. Whether you’re driving on the street or pushing the car to its limits on a track, these brakes will maintain consistent stopping power without fading.
One of the coolest features of the M5 CS is its all-wheel-drive system, which can be fully customized. For maximum traction in tricky conditions or when launching from a standstill, the system can distribute power to all four wheels.
But if you’re in the mood for some rear-wheel-drive fun, you can switch to a setting that sends 100% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. This gives you the best of both worlds: all-weather stability and the ability to kick the rear out for some tire-smoking excitement when the situation allows.
The 2023 BMW M5 CS is the ultimate performance sedan. It combines raw power, precision engineering, and lightweight design to create a car that feels at home both on the road and on the track. With its enhanced agility, upgraded brakes, and customizable all-wheel-drive system, the M5 CS is more than capable of delivering an unforgettable driving experience.
Whether you’re seeking blistering speed or high-performance handling, the M5 CS is built to satisfy.
2025 BMW M5 With Hybrid Power And 717 Horsepower
The future of the BMW M5 is set to take a bold new direction, with the introduction of hybrid technology in the 2025 model. For gearheads who love the raw, unassisted power of the current M5 CS, this might be a big change.
While hybrid systems are becoming more common in performance cars, the shift from a traditional V8 to a hybrid setup is sure to stir mixed feelings. Enthusiasts who aren’t ready to embrace this new technology might want to hold onto their 2023 M5 CS, as the next generation is poised to bring a whole new kind of performance.
The upcoming 2025 M5 will still feature BMW’s well-known twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine. However, this engine will now be paired with a 14.8 kWh battery pack and an electric motor.
This combination will transform the M5 into a full plug-in hybrid. The hybrid system won’t just be for better fuel efficiency either—this new setup will increase the car’s total power output to a staggering 717 horsepower.
The new M5 will also boast an impressive 738 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful sedans in this era.
The extra power from the hybrid system will allow the 2025 M5 to deliver supercar-level performance. In fact, BMW is expected to push the 0-60 mph time below three seconds, making it even faster than the already quick 2023 M5 CS.
For comparison, the current M5 CS has 626 horsepower and can hit 60 mph in 2.8 seconds. With the new model, BMW is making sure that the M5 will continue to compete with the fastest cars on the road.
In addition to more power, the hybrid system in the 2025 M5 will give the car some electric-only capabilities. With a 14.8 kWh battery pack, the M5 will be able to drive on pure electric power for around 25 miles.
This makes it a plug-in hybrid, meaning you can charge the battery separately from the engine, allowing for short trips without using any gasoline. For city driving or short commutes, the option to run purely on electricity will be an attractive feature for many.
However, not all enthusiasts will be excited about the switch to hybrid technology. Some drivers may be concerned about the added complexity of the system and the potential for higher maintenance costs down the line.
Hybrid systems, while offering more power and efficiency, come with more components that could need attention as the car ages. If you’re someone who prefers a simpler, more traditional driving experience, the current F90 M5 CS might be a better fit.
Its pure V8 power without any hybrid assistance could make it a desirable option for those not ready to make the jump to hybrid technology.
For those who love the idea of a powerful yet uncomplicated sports sedan, the 2023 M5 CS could become a sought-after used car in the future.
As BMW shifts towards electrification, models like the M5 CS, which combine thrilling performance with traditional V8 power, may become rare and highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The 2025 BMW M5 is set to be a groundbreaking vehicle with its hybrid powertrain delivering an incredible 717 horsepower. While some will embrace the extra power and efficiency, others may stick with the classic V8 models like the M5 CS for their simplicity and reliability.
Either way, BMW is ensuring that the M5 remains a force to be reckoned with, combining cutting-edge technology with the thrilling performance the brand is known for.
2023 BMW M5 CS: A Track-Ready Beast with a Refined Interior
The 2023 BMW M5 CS is not just about raw power and speed; it also brings a more focused, driver-centric interior that enhances both performance and comfort.
While the M5 CS is undoubtedly built for the track, BMW has ensured that its cabin remains practical and comfortable enough for everyday use. The interior strikes a fine balance between luxury and performance, making it a unique offering in the segment of high-performance sedans.
One of the key changes inside the M5 CS is the use of lightweight materials to improve the car’s performance. The bucket seats, for example, are made from carbon fiber, a material chosen for its strength and lightness.
These seats are designed to hug the body, keeping the driver and passengers firmly in place during spirited driving. While these seats offer excellent support, they’re not as cushy as those in the standard M5, but they still provide enough comfort for daily drives.
The M5 CS manages to maintain a ride that, while stiffer, is still suitable for regular road use without feeling overly harsh.
The interior design is sleek and purposeful. Black materials dominate the cabin, with subtle yet striking red stitching adding a touch of sportiness. One unique feature is the rear seating arrangement. Instead of the usual rear bench seat found in the standard M5, the M5 CS replaces it with two individual bucket seats, reducing the seating capacity to four people.
These rear bucket seats are also lighter, contributing to the car’s overall weight reduction. To highlight its performance pedigree, each headrest is etched with an outline of the Nürburgring Nordschleife, a tribute to the M5 CS’s impressive 7:29 lap time around the iconic racetrack.
The steering wheel is another area where performance meets luxury. Wrapped in Alcantara, the wheel offers better grip than traditional leather, making it easier for the driver to maintain control during aggressive driving.
The M5 CS is equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox that can be adjusted depending on the driver’s mood. In performance mode, gear shifts are lightning-fast, perfect for track driving. When cruising around town, the transmission can be switched to a more relaxed, fully automatic mode for a smoother, more comfortable ride.
Despite its performance focus, the M5 CS doesn’t skimp on modern technology and convenience features. BMW’s ambient lighting system creates a calming atmosphere inside the cabin, making long journeys more enjoyable.
The M5 CS also comes with a pair of 12.3-inch displays, making it easy for the driver to customize vehicle settings and access driving data.
As expected from a modern BMW, the infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity for all your media and apps.
In terms of value, the M5 CS does come with a hefty price tag. In 2024, even used models are fetching over $150,000, making it a pricey option compared to alternatives like the Corvette C8, which starts at under $70,000.
While the Corvette offers incredible performance for the price, it’s hard to match the M5 CS’s blend of family-friendly practicality, cutting-edge technology, and track-ready performance.
With the M5 CS, you get a focused driving experience without sacrificing the ability to carry your family in comfort.
The 2023 BMW M5 CS is a rare blend of track performance and everyday usability. Its lightweight, performance-focused interior enhances the driving experience, while still offering enough luxury to make it a comfortable option for daily driving.
Whether you’re looking to set lap times or simply enjoy a spirited drive with your family, the M5 CS proves that you don’t have to compromise on practicality to enjoy top-tier performance.
