2026 BMW M5

In addition to 717 horsepower, the 2026 BMW M5 generates a mountainous 738 lb-ft of torque. Transmitting that much twist to the ground requires standard xDrive all-wheel drive tuned by BMW's M division, but a rear-wheel-drive mode is available for drivers who want to try drifting their 5,400-pound Beemer. Although the new M5 outweighs its predecessor by more than 1,000 pounds, the battery pack mounted in the floor keeps the center of gravity low and preserves the car's famously sharp handling.

There seems to be no performance ceiling for midsize luxury sedans and station wagons, leaving shoppers in this class with lots of compelling choices. The Audi RS 7 and RS 6 Avant share a 621-hp twin-turbocharged V8. The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, with its 668-hp supercharged V8, is the only entrant left in this performance stratosphere with an available manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The 771-hp Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid is perhaps the M5's most direct analog, with a plug-in powertrain and a similar electric range, but it is significantly more expensive. Shoppers considering a greater commitment to electrification should also check out the Lucid Air, a luxury EV with up to 512 miles of range.