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BMW M5 Competition Details Revealed

617-hp sedan enters production in July

By Lee Bailie Wheels.ca

May 11, 2018 4 min. read

Article was updated 6 years ago

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BMW has taken the wraps off its new 2019 M5 Competition, a higher-performance variant of company’s legendary M5 sedan that brings together exceptional performance and a suitably rarefied aura for which BMW M models are well-known. A 17 hp hike in engine output over the standard version of the new BMW M5 (to 617 hp), even more direct responses and bespoke chassis tuning ensure a race-inspired driving experience.

Production for the M5 Competition begins in July with deliveries starting in September. Canadian pricing isn’t yet available but should be released in the coming weeks. Allocation for Canada is also to be confirmed.

The engine: more power and a distinctive brand of performance.

The performance-driving experience that defines the character of the new BMW M5 Competition has a deep emotional richness – and is rooted in the distinctive way its engine goes about its business. The 4.4-litre V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology now produces a maximum output of 617 hp at 6,000 rpm. Peak torque is 553 lb-ft and can be enjoyed across an extremely wide rev range – from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm (i.e. a 200-rpm wider band than in the standard version of the new BMW M5).

The high-revving nature of the eight-cylinder engine is therefore harnessed to give the new BMW M5 Competition imposing levels of thrust. The car’s unique power delivery makes its presence felt in reducing the Competition’s 0 to 100 km/h time to 3.3 seconds. Furthermore, 0 – 200 km/h is over in 10.8 seconds – 0.3 seconds quicker than in the standard version of the new M5.

Standard specification for the new BMW M5 Competition includes a model-specific M Sport exhaust system with tailpipe embellishers in black chrome. This version of the twin-pipe, flap-controlled exhaust generates a strikingly prominent soundtrack. Meanwhile, the addition of a particulate filter to the Competition’s armoury enables a further reduction in emissions.

BMW M5 Competition Details

Specially designed engine mounts optimise responsiveness and cornering characteristics.

The new BMW M5 Competition features model-specific engine mounting, which also has a noticeable impact on its performance abilities. The engine mounts have modified characteristics and an increased spring rate, and the drive unit’s firmer connection to the vehicle’s structure results in even more direct engine response and immediate transmission of its power to the drivetrain. The car also turns into corners with noticeably greater directness and precision on account of the mounting’s stiffer characteristics.

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive.

Putting the new BMW M5 Competition’s engine power to the ground is handled by the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. Three different modes offering a choice of efficient, sporty or ultra-dynamic driving can be activated using the Drivelogic rocker switch on the gear selector.

Having made its debut in the standard version of the new BMW M5, the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system now also feeds the further increased power of the BMW M5 Competition onto the road with poise, assurance and thrilling alacrity. It generates just enough extra traction to achieve acceleration times worthy of a super-sports car.

BMW M5 Competition Details

Individually tuned chassis for the ultimate in precision and performance.

Like every BMW M car, the new BMW M5 Competition is equipped with chassis technology matched perfectly to the performance characteristics of its engine. The associated modifications ensure precisely controllable handling at all times, even in extremely dynamic driving situations. As well as lowering the vehicle by seven millimetres, the model-specific chassis tuning also includes judicious tweaks to the wheel suspension, springs and dampers.

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 tires measuring 275/35R20 at the front and 285/35R20 at the rear.

Exclusive and highly expressive design features.

The exclusive feel of the new BMW M5 Competition is further enhanced by a selection of other model-specific design features. BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line trim is complemented by sporty high-gloss black for the kidney grille surround, the decorative mesh of the signature BMW M gills in the front side panels, and the trim for the rear bumper covering and the exterior mirror caps. Another special feature are the door openers, which are painted in the body colour. The rear spoiler and “M5” trunk lid badge – which gains “Competition” lettering – also comes in high-gloss black.

Inside the car, an understated stripe design in BMW M GmbH colours for the seat belts, plus floor mats with special piping and “M5” logo, point to the exclusive character of the new BMW M5 Competition. A further identifying feature is the “M Competition” graphic that appears in the instrument cluster to greet the driver when it is starting up.

BMW M5 Competition Details

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