I didn't think they were that new as I was sitting in one this past summer at a display. It is by far my favorite Benz. The overall feel and quality of it is really good, unlike most Benzes I've been in. It doesn't even bother me that they are automatic because if you've ever driven any auto Benz you will instantly understand why MB is considered to make the best auto trannies. They are so smooth and when you nail the gas it downshifts and GOOOOESSS. None of that shitty feel that all the Japanese autos I've driven feel. E55 owns the M5 in my opinion, and the next M5 will most likely be ugly and hideous as all new BMWs are, so E55 will still own that.