F90 M5 to i30N?

[BlueJ]

I've been enjoying an F90 M5 for about 18 months / 18k, however I've also been thinking about going back to my youth and getting a hot hatch for more enjoyment and involvement day-to-day.

The M5 is a superb car, with deep chested performance making it a relaxing way to travel. However it's a 1900kg automatic 5 series, not that engaging in everyday use, and only really comes alive at very high speeds (or so I've heard, officer).

I test drove a new hatchback i30N on Friday (manual gearbox) and it was great fun, obviously no where near as quick as an M5 but I was surprised how quickly it got up to 70 (?) at the top of third gear.

Steering and grip were superb, it really encouraged you to throw it into a corner or roundabout (where traffic conditions permitted...), and braking was way better than the M5 - it is of course so much lighter.

I'd be interested in views on this change - has anyone done similar? Any regrets? Views on the relative merits of an M5 vs. i30N?

Thanks in advance.

[Terminator X]

Slightly o/t but I went M2 then M3 after my M5 and I have to say I enjoyed them both more. M5 is an absolute animal but too big for UK roads imho.

TX.

[resolve10]

I've done similar a couple of times, albeit not with the same power deficit.

Most recently I went from a DCT M2 to a manual Megane Trophy. I didn't necessarily miss the power or sound, and I enjoyed the hot hatch chuckability you describe, but don't underestimate how much you value the luxury/quality element of the BMW. Only you'll know how much value you place on that, but it keeps me coming back to the brand.

[BlueJ]

Thanks both.

That point about luxury is a good one, how to assess how much you'll miss something you live with day to day now?

On the flipside I don't tend to enjoy my interactions with BMW dealers; service isn't great but the bills are always hefty!

[Phil.]

I’ve gone from a F90 M5 comp to a GR Yaris and it’s a hoot.

I too found the M5 just too fast for the road whereas the GR is fun and quite fast too. The GR has put more smiles on my face than the M5 ever did

[cerb4.5lee]

I went E90 330i to a F56 Cooper S a few years ago and I much preferred the MINI, so I could see it working for you I reckon. However now I've been used to the performance of the F82 M4 though, I'm not sure if I could do that again now to be fair. I'd miss the M4s performance too much I think.

[BlueJ]

To conclude this for info - lined up a deal on a car but when it came to it couldn't bring myself to sell the M5 - it's a keeper!

Thanks for the input.