BMW M GmbH presents the most powerful and sportiest version of the BMW M5 high-performance sedan to date. The new BMW M5 Competition (combined fuel consumption: 10.8 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 246 – 243 g / km)* significantly raises the bar in its category in terms of dynamics, handling and precision.
With an engine output that has been increased by 19 kW/25 hp to 460 kW/625 hp compared to the new BMW M5, an even sharper response to accelerator pedal movements and a specially tuned chassis, motorsport-style driving performance is guaranteed at all times. The new BMW M5 Competition successfully combines top performance and extraordinary exclusivity with the seamless everyday usability that BMW M models are renowned for.
History of success: the Competition moniker symbolizes maximum performance and exclusivity.
The launch of the new BMW M5 Competition creates a new product category. In the future, BMW M GmbH will offer the most powerful versions of its high-performance cars as separate models. The restructuring of the M portfolio was prompted by the considerable popularity of various specific models equipped with the M Competition package with increased performance. The M Competition package first appeared in the range on the previous generation BMW M5 and is currently available for the BMW M4 Coupé, BMW M4 Cabrio and BMW M3 Sedan. Approximately 40% of all BMW M5s of the previous generation were equipped with the M Competition package. The top version was the BMW M5 Competition Edition, which was produced in a number of only 200 units and, in addition to the ultra-exclusive standard equipment, was characterized by a power output increased to 441 kW/600 hp.
The new BMW M5 Competition will be available from the very start of production in June 2018. The main markets for the BMW M5 and BMW M5 Competition should be the USA, Great Britain, Germany, Japan and Canada.
* Consumption figures are provisional (in some cases), based on the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the selected tire size.
* The given data on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and energy consumption were determined in accordance with Regulation of the European Parliament and Council (EC) No. 715/2007 as amended. The data refer to the vehicle in basic equipment in Germany and the range shown takes into account optional equipment and differences in the dimensions of the selected wheels and tires, and may vary during configuration.
Engine: increased performance and unique characteristics.
The emotion-packed driving experiences that define the new BMW M5 Competition are based on the unique performance characteristics of its engine. The high-revving drive unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed for the standard BMW M5 has been carefully optimized to intensify the onset of power and torque.
The V8 engine with a displacement of 4.4 liters now generates a maximum output of 460 kW/625 hp at 6000 rpm. The torque peaks at 750 Nm and can be used in an extremely wide range from 1800 to 5800 rpm (this means a 200 rpm wider range than in the case of the standard version of the new BMW M5). The linear onset of power, which is so characteristic of the M models, therefore lasts even longer – up to the revs at which the engine's maximum power comes into play. A high-revving concept with its roots in racing circuits has been applied to the V8 engine of the new BMW M5 Competition to deliver impressive driving power. The adjusted power onset results in a faster 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 3.3 seconds, while the car reaches double that speed from a standstill in 10.8 seconds. This is 0.3 seconds faster than the standard version of the new BMW M5.
The M sports exhaust emits an unmistakable sound.
Among the technological conveniences of the V8 engine is also a special configuration of crossed exhaust pipes. Precisely routed exhaust gases, together with optimized gas exchange in the engine, result in exceptionally fast responses of the turbochargers. For even cleaner exhaust gases, the new BMW M5 Competition is also equipped with a particulate filter.
The new BMW M5 Competition is equipped as standard with a model-specific M sports exhaust system. This version of the exhaust, with dual tailpipes and electronically controlled flaps, emits an extremely distinctive sound with an even sportier tone – especially under high engine load at high revs – and thus further intensifies the emotions provided by the enormously powerful power unit. The sound of the exhaust system is also affected by the various engine modes, which can be selected at the touch of a button. The driver can also change the sound of the engine using the M Sound Control button, which allows a quick switch to a much quieter sound. The M sports exhaust system also looks great thanks to the glossy black chrome tailpipes, neatly placed in the left and right parts of the rear bumper.
A specially designed engine mount optimizes engine response and cornering ability.
The new BMW M5 Competition is equipped with a specific engine mount for this model, which has a significant effect on its driving characteristics. The engine mounting has modified silentblocks and increased strength – from 580 Nm, in the case of the standard new BMW M5, to 900 Nm. The tighter connection of the power unit to the car body is clearly visible and results in faster engine responses and immediate power transfer. The car also turns more willingly and precisely into corners thanks to the stiffer characteristics of the engine mounting. Last but not least, the stiffer engine mounting further improves the experience by bringing the unmistakable sound of the eight-cylinder engine into the cabin even more urgently.
Perfect transmission of drive power thanks to the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive drive.
The task of transferring the engine power of the new BMW M5 Competition is again handled by the eight-speed M Steptronic gearbox, whose technical solution and functionality have been carefully designed for extremely dynamic performance. Incredibly short gearshift times and prompt response to any gas pedal depression ensure that the engine's capabilities are immediately transferred to the road. Three different modes, offering economical, sporty or ultra-dynamic driving, can be selected via the Drivelogic rocker switch on the transmission selector. Manual gear changes can be made using the gear selector or levers on the steering wheel. A specially designed separate oil cooler keeps the transmission at the required operating temperature, even when driving hard on the racetrack.
The M xDrive all-wheel drive system, which debuted in the standard version of the new BMW M5, is also equipped with everything needed to offer fascinating driving performance. The intelligent all-wheel drive technology is able to seamlessly and excitingly transfer the even higher performance of the BMW M5 Competition to the road. And it creates just enough grip for the car to be able to achieve acceleration comparable to super sports cars. The centrally controlled cooperation between the M xDrive system and the active M differential is largely responsible for transferring the engine's remarkable power to the wheels without any power loss. The torque is distributed between the wheels of the front and rear axle with velvety smoothness and fully variable thanks to the electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. The active M differential subsequently distributes the torque to the individual wheels of the rear axle as needed.
Another factor that contributes to the high-performance sedan's tremendous agility is the M xDrive system's prioritization of the rear axle. The system also allows for the programming of individual torque distribution, and the driver thus has the opportunity to influence the operation of both the DSC stabilization system and how the torque is distributed between the front and rear axles – all at the push of a button. As an alternative to the standard settings of the new BMW M5 Competition, there is an M Dynamic mode for controlled drifts and particularly playful handling, as well as three other circuit-oriented modes with DSC deactivated. In addition to the 4WD and 4WD Sport modes, there is also the option of choosing a rear-axle drive only (2WD) mode, which allows experienced drivers to enjoy the characteristics of previous generations of the BMW M5 – i.e. driving in its purest form without assistance systems that would tame the car.
Individually tuned chassis for perfect precision and performance.
Like every other BMW M car, the BMW M5 Competition is equipped with a chassis that perfectly matches the engine's performance potential. The related modifications guarantee precise handling at all times, even in extremely dynamic driving situations. All this is thanks to the M-specific kinematic and elastokinematic properties of the front axle with double wishbones and the rear five-link axle. The result is neutral behavior and a linear increase in lateral overload up to the very limit of the car's dynamic capabilities. The equipment also includes M-specific actively controlled shock absorbers with three different adjustment modes, Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus, which can be selected at the push of a button. In contrast, the electromechanical M Servotronic steering offers supreme precision when entering corners and at the same time provides distinct feedback.
The specially tuned chassis for this model includes, in addition to a 7 mm lower ground clearance, also smart adjustments in the area of wheel suspension, spring stiffness and shock absorbers. Greater camber on the front axle improves the car's ability to absorb lateral forces during fast cornering. The use of connecting arms with ball joints instead of rubber mounts results in even more precise guidance of the rear wheels. And the rear transverse torsional stabilizer is also stiffer, which causes body roll to be less during fast cornering at the rear of the car.
The front axle of the new BMW M5 Competition is equipped with a newly designed anti-roll bar attachment. Ten percent stiffer front and rear springs than the new BMW M5 result in a stiffer ride, which also has a positive effect on handling. In addition, shorter auxiliary springs in the shock absorbers with newly adjusted hydraulics limit wheel movements under load. The sporty character of the new BMW M5 Competition stands out through three modes that can be selected at the touch of a button. This means that the direct connection of the chassis with the drive can be clearly felt even in Comfort mode. Selecting Sport mode activates the damper settings that have been tuned for driving on the North Loop of the Nürburgring. And the Sport Plus mode is perfectly suited for driving around Grand Prix circuits.
Easy handling in corners.
The result of all these modifications are better driving characteristics, which stand out especially on the circuit. The new BMW M5 Competition is characterized by even better handling in dynamically extreme driving situations. This easy handling in corners, even at the limit, will be welcomed by drivers with enthusiasm. Directional stability with high lateral overload and the precise character of the car when approaching and then exiting corners also reached new heights. At the same time, these dynamic improvements brought only relatively small restrictions in the field of ride comfort and suspension.
The excellent braking performance of the new BMW M5 Competition is the result of the use of lightweight M brakes with floating, drilled, internally cooled discs, which are equipped with six-piston fixed calipers at the front. Single-piston floating calipers with an integrated parking brake are used at the rear. The offer also includes M carbon-ceramic brakes, which are characterized by even lower weight, extreme resistance to overheating and a longer service life.
The standard equipment of the new BMW M5 Competition includes the exclusive two-tone M light-alloy Y-spoke wheels. These 20-inch forged wheels are shod with 275/35 R 20 tires at the front and 285/35 R 20 at the rear.
Exclusive and distinctive design elements.
The light-alloy wheels specially developed for the BMW M5 Competition have a significant influence not only on the exceptional driving characteristics, but also contribute to the exclusive appearance. Other special features of the Competition model include door handles completely painted in the body color and a number of gloss black details. This discreet black tone is used in the BMW M5 Competition on the lower part of the rear-view mirrors and their covers, as well as on the M decorative elements on the front fenders. This color scheme harmonizes harmoniously with the BMW Individual Shadow Line gloss black window moldings and B-pillar trim.
The gloss black design theme to the front of the new BMW M5 Competition is carried by the grille frame in this version, and those driving behind can recognize the new model by the gloss black details in the rear bumper. This element forms a color coordinated composition with chrome black exhaust tips. The rear spoiler and the M5 logo on the boot lid, with the addition of "Competition" lettering, are also finished in gloss black.
The stylish details that refer to the high-performance sporty character inside the new BMW M5 Competition are the black seat belts with the discreet BMW M GmbH tricolor and the floor mats with specific edging and the M5 logo.
