BMW has refreshed the M5 sedan for the 2021 model year. The updates all fall into the “expected” category with fresh front and rear styling, more infotainment options, improved performance options, and changes to the paint job lineup.
The German automaker will continue to offer the car in M5 and M5 Competition variants.
The front of the sedans now features an enlarged version of the company’s signature kidney grille. BMW has surrounded the grille with a single piece of chrome, which is horizontally flanked by larger air intakes. The headlights are slimmer.
The grille on the model is new, as are the headlights.Photo courtesy of BMW
At the rear, M-specific quad exhaust pipes sit under a restyled rear bumper and diffuser. Like the headlights, the taillights now feature an L-shapes design.
The M5 Competition comes with a black finish for the BMW kidney grille surround, the front fender side-gill mesh inserts, the exterior mirror caps, the rear trunk spoiler, name badges and rear bumper inserts. The tips of the Competition model’s M Sport exhaust system are finished in black chrome.
BMW will offer new Brands Hatch Grey and Motegi Red Metallic paint jobs. BMW Individual paint colors now include Tanzanite Blue II metallic, Aventurine Red II metallic, and the matte finish Frozen Bluestone metallic.
The 2021 M5 continues to be powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that produces 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. It can get to 62 mph from a standstill in 3.2 seconds.
The rear of the car includes a new taillight design.Photo courtesy of BMW
The 2021 M5 Competition has the same engine, but tuned to 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. It is a tenth of a second faster to 62 mph. This model also gets a new Track drive mode.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. A single M mode button replaces the previous individual buttons for the engine, chassis, suspension, steering and xDrive system.
The M5 Competition has also gotten new equipment to aid in its daily driver duties like speeding down the highway and going over speed bumps. It has new shock absorbers and a fully recalibrated damper control system. The standard compound brake calipers will now be available in a black or red finish.
That model also gets the option of full Marino leather in black and Midrand beige with Alcantara inserts for upholstery.
The car now has a 12.3-inch infotainment screen.Photo courtesy of BMW
The cars both have a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen now. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and navigation are standard.
BMW has priced the M5 to start at $103,500 and the M5 Competition to start at $111,100. Pricing does not include the $995 destination charge.
