BMW has
officially unveiled the 2021 M5. Echoing the facelifted 5-Series, the
high-performance model features a revised grille and restyled headlights. The
model has also been equipped with “more dramatic” bumpers, a modified diffuser
and new taillights with a three dimensional appearance. Besides the minor
styling changes, BMW gave the M5 five new exterior colors including Brands
Hatch Grey and Motegi Red Metallic.
There are also newly available 20-inch wheels sourced from the M8.
Moving into the cabin, drivers will find a
familiar cockpit with a larger 12.3-inch infotainment system which now features
Android Auto and cloud-based navigation. The model also has revised upholstery
and an updated center console with two new buttons that provide easy access to
vehicle settings and the M mode.
The M5’s twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine
carries over and continues to produce 592 hp and 750 Nm of torque. It’s connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission
which sends power to a rear-biased all-wheel drive system with 2WD, 4WD and 4WD
Sport modes. This setup enables the car to rocket from 0-100 km/h in
just 3.4 seconds.
Buyers looking for more power can opt for
the M5 Competition which has 617 hp and 750 Nm of
torque. Thanks to the extra oomph, the dash to 100 km/h is cut to 3.3
seconds. Despite the power differences, both models are electronically limited
to 250 km/h. However, the optional M Driver’s Package increases that
number to 305 km/h.
Speaking of performance, engineers have
fine-tuned the suspension on the M5 Competition. It features new shocks and a recalibrated
damper control system that promises to “enhance ride comfort during high-speed
highway driving as well as over bumps.”
The model will be launched in August and
German pricing starts at € 120,900 for the M5 and € 129,900 for the M5
Competition. In the United States,
pricing begins at US$ 103,500 and US$ 111,100 – excluding a US$ 995 destination charge.
