The Editor's Worried - You Don't Seem Angry With Him At The Moment
OK, I know this is the quiet before the storm. You see, I write several of these editorials before they hit the bookstores, such is the efficiency of our printing and distribution network. And I know that I made some pretty annoying comments about drag racing and Euros last month. So I just have to wait for that one to hit the shelves and my inbox should be boiling.
Admittedly, I write things just to stir up opinions and get people thinking about what we're doing. It's been a fascinating journey so far and you've taught me a great deal about this market. I understand the position of the Ford Focus and all Hondas thanks to your letters.
I'm also grateful that most of you realize this is a debate, not a personal attack on your values. We're getting some very well-argued replies from you and it's made the job all the more enjoyable to interact with you. So don't be shy about emailing. I make time to read them all.
I have to admit this job is a pleasure. Meeting all of you at shows and seeing the passion you put into your cars is the best part. However, there are a few other perks.
Getting to drive the new M5 and GTI ahead of release has definitely been one of the highlights. You can read all about it next month and I don't want to make you jealous but getting the key to a 500hp V10 M5 and taking the twisty route to Lime Rock race circuit is one of those days I'll never forget.
I'm not sure what I enjoyed the most - ragging the M5 on the road or the track. There's a part of me that loves to drive quickly on public roads, but I know it's not socially responsible, etc. And you're always worried about the cop around the next bend. In fact, there were so many out that day I'm amazed to be here to recount the tale. Fortunately, I wasn't being silly and didn't attract attention to myself. However, I remember flicking through the paddles on the seven-speed semi-automatic and then shoving it in D when entering a small town. I backed right off, slumped down into the seat and waited for the fun to begin again on the other side. It was then that the heads-up display (oh, it has one) flashed up 75mph. But it felt like I was standing still. Seriously. I'd have sworn I was only doing 35mph, officer. However, it's a testament to BMW's incredible engineering and the dual personalities of this car that deceived me. Fortunately, the M5's also blessed with huge brakes, so I pressed on them and brought it down to the legal limit. No harm done.
The new BMWs are raising some interesting questions about driver control. On the GTI you only have to deal with traction control and electronic steering. On the M5 you are assaulted with so many options on the electronic aids that it becomes overwhelming. Apparently, there are 279 permutations of aids such as gear change speed, suspension stiffness, throttle speed, traction control and active seats (an amazing development).
What initially confused me about the M5 is that I'm used to jumping into a car and adapting to its individual characteristics - be they worn tires, spongy brakes or a wallowing ride. The M5, however, adapts to you. It learns your throttle inputs and seeks to match your mood. Then there are so many driver options that you constantly feel you could have entered a particular corner on a slightly different setting to get it perfect. I found myself wishing BMW had given me just two or three settings to choose from. However, there is the M button. It's driver-programmable and allows the full 500hp to be unleashed. But more next month.
In the meantime, love what you drive and drive because you love to.
Greg Emmerson
Editor
eurotuner@primedia.com