The new BMW M5 Competition

The original model that started the high performance super saloon genre is now being updated to further stand ahead of its rivals. The new BMW M5 Competition is a based on the sixth generation of the M5 Saloon first revealed last year but comes with increased power, optimised styling and aerodynamics, changes to the chassis and tuning, and interior design updates.

Powered by an uprated 4.4-litre V8 engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology, the new BMW M5 Competition delivers a maximum torque of 750Nm over a wider rev range than before and 625hp (up 25hp). This enhanced performance accelerates the super saloon from zero to 62mph in just 3.3 seconds, with the 124mph mark reached in 10.8 seconds (0.3 seconds faster than before) making this incarnation the fastest ever M5.

*Electronically limited.

Power is transmitted to the road via the newly developed M xDrive all-wheel drive system. M xDrive brings the front wheels into play only when the rear wheels reach their limits of adhesion. The main components of M xDrive are based on the intelligent all-wheel drive BMW xDrive system and Active M differential, controlled by a central M-specific vehicle dynamics control system. The transmission of power is further enhanced with model-specific engine mounts with greater stiffness (900Nm as opposed to 580Nm) and these allow for a firmer connection to the vehicle’s structure and better overall engine response and performance than before.

Aurally the new BMW M5 Competition underscores its flagship credentials with a unique M Sport exhaust system as standard. This version of the flap-controlled, twin-pipe exhaust system produces an extremely distinctive soundtrack. The use of the Drive Performance control switch from ‘Efficient’ through to ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport Plus’ can alter the acoustic experience accordingly. There is a discreet visual signifier to this new exhaust too in the form of black chrome embellishers on the rear apron.

Even greater handling

The new BMW M5 Competition follows BMW’s mantra of continuous development and now rides on a 7mm lower suspension that has also been further tuned for greater driving dynamics. The increased camber at the front axle enhances the car’s ability to absorb lateral forces through high speed corners while fitting tow links with ball joints instead of rubber mounts has resulted in even more precise wheel guidance at the rear. The rear anti-roll bar has also been stiffened. Overall the car rides 10 per cent stiffer than the car it is based upon and is also complemented by a standard M specific variable damper control.

Standard specification for the new BMW M5 Competition includes exclusive M light-alloy wheels sporting a Y-spoke design in a bi-colour finish. The 20-inch forged wheels are shod with mixed-size tyres measuring 275/35 R 20 at the front and 285/35 R 20 at the rear. The car comes as standard with six-piston fixed callipers and perforated, inner-vented brake discs at the front wheels and single-piston floating callipers with integrated parking brake at the rear. M Carbon ceramic brakes are also available as an option, distinguished by matt Gold-coloured callipers with M logo designation. These are 23kg, increasing driving dynamics and suspension comfort, among other things. BMW M Carbon ceramic brakes have even better performance, less fade and improved thermal stability.

Competition design touches

The kidney grille’s surround brings extra high-gloss black accenting to the front end of the new BMW M5 Competition, and those travelling behind will also be able to pick out the new car by the high-gloss black detailing for the rear bumper covering. This, in turn, forms a colour-coordinated composition with the tailpipes in black chrome. Both the rear spoiler and “M5” boot lid logo – which gains “Competition” lettering – are also finished in high-gloss black.

Moving inside the new BMW M5 Competition, black seat belts with an understated striped pattern in BMW M GmbH colours and floor mats with model-specific piping plus an “M5” logo provide the finishing touches. Another distinctive identifier is the “M Competition” graphic that appears in the instrument cluster to greet the driver as it is starting up.