It’s always big news, and good news, whenever BMW rolls out a new model with “M” badging that designates a very serious performance car aimed squarely at the most demanding drivers around. That just happened yesterday, as BMW announced both the M5 and M5 Competition sedans, which joyfully combine four doors and honest midsize passenger space with truly awesome driving manners. The M5 – that’s the road-legal variant – has some absolutely electrifying numbers. The S63 engine that’s its standard powerplant displaces 4.4 liters but thanks to twin water-intercooled turbochargers and direct injection, produces a stunning 600hp at 6,000 RPM and an extraordinarily muscular 553-lbs.ft. of torque between 1,800 and 5,960 RPM. Those. cousins, are world-class numbers. In street trim, the M5 will reach 60 MPH in 3.2 seconds, and maxes out at an electrically governed top end of 155 MPH. In short, this car’s enough for even the most determined driver to probably scare himself a time or two.
All that punch is parceled out via an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and standard xDrive all-wheel drive, with three available driving modes, including rear-drive only. All the goodies are now accessible via a single M Mode pushbutton, which combines functions that the previous M5 needed five individual controls to manage. New electronics include active cruise control, cloud-based navigation maps, a voice-activated personal assistant and new Android Auto connectivity, joining Apple CarPlay. The Competition model boosts engine output to 617hp and adds 20-inch wheels with run-flat tires. Want some? Can’t blame you. Prices will start at $103,500 when the new M5 hits the showrooms in August.
Jim Donnelly On Wheels 