STILL KING; Latest M5 conquers all, regardless of BMW's gizmo overload.(News)

Byline: MAC MORRISON

We first drove BMW's new E60 M5 a year ago in Germany and described it as "the ultimate machine.'' But the title was more question than compliment. Had Munich shifted the M5's emphasis too much away from driving?

Consider this from BMW's press material: "3 power settings x 10 SMG programs (excluding for the moment S6) x 3 EDC modes x 3 DSC choices = 270 combinations of settings. Then, transmission program S6: Because it can be selected only with DSC deactivated, 3 power settings x 3 EDC modes = 9. Add these to 270 and you get the full 279 modes.''

Oh dear. This is the new face of M? And iDrive is needed to access all this tomgadgetry?

No, but-mark this down as a first-it makes life easier. Four buttons placed around the shift handle control engine power, suspension stiffness, stability/traction control and shift speed (S1-6). Punch them individually to suit your mood, or use the computer to simplify things. With your preferences logged in, activate them simultaneously and at any time by pushing the steering wheel-mounted "MDrive'' button.

Despite the tech barrage, the M5 remains the benchmark for performance luxury sedans. Drive it at even seven-tenths and it's clear this Bavarian beast will rip out the lungs of all challengers, including Cadillac's STS-V, Mercedes' E55 AMG and Audi's RS6. According to BMW, the M5-whose handling and braking prowess impress as much as the engine-can hang with Porsche's 911 around the Nordschleife.

The driving experience is 911-ish, too, at least in spirit. The BMW bonds with its driver more than any competitor, due largely to sublime yet aggressive suspension and steering tuning. The electronically controlled suspension, no matter the stiffness level, gives big grip and just as much feedback. In concert with non-active steering and sticky 19-inch tires, it gave us more confidence than is normal when strapped to 500 hp.