The Permobil M5 Corpus is the most capable non-standing mid-wheel drive base in Permobil’s range. It is designed for people who spend a significant amount of time outdoors, drive over varied terrain, or simply want a calmer, more planted ride than more compact mid-wheel bases can offer — while still retaining the manoeuvrability mid-wheel drive is known for.
Compared with the M3, the M5 has a slightly larger footprint, but remains precise and predictable to drive. The benefit of this extra size is felt outdoors: improved stability, greater traction, and a ride that feels less reactive over uneven ground. In practice, this often translates to reduced fatigue and a greater sense of confidence when driving for longer periods.
Ride quality and suspension
The M5 uses Permobil’s higher-capacity suspension system, designed to keep all six wheels in contact with the ground even when driving over broken surfaces. Importantly, suspension remains active at all seating positions, including when tilt or lift is engaged — something that is not true of all powerchairs in this class.
For users who rely on specialist seating or who are sensitive to vibration, this consistent suspension behaviour can make a noticeable difference to comfort and postural stability over the course of a day.
A higher top speed and larger battery options are available compared with the M3, making the M5 better suited to longer outdoor journeys and more demanding environments. Tyre options range from road-focused to aggressive all-terrain patterns, depending on where you intend to drive most often.
Seating, Active Height and Active Reach
The M5 uses the Corpus seating system, configured individually to your size and requirements. Backrests, cushions (including ROHO), head supports and lateral positioning can all be specified and adjusted over time, making the chair suitable for long-term use as needs evolve.
Active Height allows the seat to elevate while still driving at walking pace, enabling eye-level interaction and practical engagement with the environment. Unlike some seat lifters, Permobil’s system maintains suspension and stability while elevated, avoiding a rigid or unsettled feel.
Active Reach builds on this by combining elevation with controlled forward tilt. This allows you to safely reach forward — for example to worktops, shelves or desks — without relying on unsupported trunk movement. While it is not a replacement for standing, it is often a meaningful functional step for people who do not require a standing powerchair.
Controls and specialist input
R-Net controls are supplied as standard and can be programmed extensively. Drive profiles, seating functions and memory positions are typically adjusted during assessment and refined after delivery, which is particularly important on a chair with this level of capability.
The M5 is also a strong platform for specialist controls, including head, chin or switch input, and can be expanded with Bluetooth or infrared environmental control where required.
How the M5 compares within the Permobil range
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Compared with the M3: the M5 offers greater outdoor confidence, higher elevation and reach capability, and a calmer ride over uneven ground, at the cost of a slightly larger footprint indoors.
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Compared with the M1: the M5 is a fully prescriptive system with significantly more seating and positioning options, and is aimed at longer daily use.
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Compared with standing models (M Corpus VS / F5 Corpus VS): the M5 does not provide standing, but is often chosen where standing is not clinically required and a simpler, lighter, less complex system is preferred.
For users who want standing combined with mid-wheel manoeuvrability, the M Corpus VS is usually the next comparison. For those prioritising outdoor performance above all else, particularly on slopes and cambers, the F5 Corpus may also be considered.
Who the M5 tends to suit
The M5 is commonly selected by people who:
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spend significant time outdoors
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want a composed, confidence-inspiring ride
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require advanced seating and positioning
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do not require standing but still want high functional reach
It is frequently specified in UK case management and complex rehabilitation pathways, where long-term durability, adjustability and predictable performance are critical.
