BMW M5 COMPETITION

Overview

Don't call it a comeback. The BMW M5 has been here for years. However, the latest generation is rocking its peers and putting fear in the hearts of other sports sedans. Uncorking 600-plus horsepower from its twin-turbo V-8, the 2020 M5 accelerates with unbridled ferocity. Its standard all-wheel-drive system can even send all that power to the rear wheels for drivers who like to hang out the tail.

Indeed, BMW has reinvented an icon that had become almost unrecognizable. While the M5 is still a big luxury sedan loaded with high-tech gadgetry, it now has a maniacal side that lately has been missing from the company's storied M division

What's New for 2020?

For 2020, BMW makes small changes to the M5 lineup that include new standard equipment and a limited-run M5 Edition 35 Years.

Every model now comes with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, real-time traffic info, remote services, and wireless device charging. The U.S. will only get 35 of the awkwardly named M5 Edition 35 Years, which is based on the Competition model and includes unique gold interior trim as well as exclusive Frozen Dark Grey II exterior paint.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

• M5: $104,695
• M5 Competition: $111,995

Those who want the ultimate 5-series should choose the M5 Competition, which we think is the better M5.

That choice requires shelling out an extra $7300 for 17 more horses, specially tuned suspension settings, and some unique styling bits. The upgrades don't compromise the 5's ride quality or livability. We'd add the 20-inch wheels (19s are standard) and the Executive package. The latter brings luxuries such as ventilated front seats with massage functions, heated front and rear seats, soft-close doors, four-zone automatic climate control, self-parking assist, and more.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Sporting a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 with 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, the M5 is mighty quick. At our test track, it launched to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds and snapped off a 10.9-second quarter-mile time at 129 mph; top speed is a governor-limited 163 mph. An even more powerful M5 Competition modelis now available and makes 617 horsepower. It proved to be quicker than the regular M5 on a real racetrack at our annual Lightning Lap.

The M5 faithful will lament the discontinued manual gearbox and unfamiliar all-wheel-drive system, but this Bimmer has a high-tech drivetrain that can send 100 percent of power to the rear wheels for pure rear-drive personality. Driving enjoyment is maximized here with lively and direct steering, a well-controlled (borderline stiff) ride, and heroic cornering grip. That doesn't mean the M5 can't also do duty as a luxury sedan: In Comfort mode, it cruises placidly and the cabin is whisper quiet.