According to news emanating from Munich, BMW is readying a more powerful M5 for reveal on the 8th May 2018 – named the M5 Competition.
It’s no secret that BMW M has been working on the hot M5, with BMW M boss Frank Van Meel confirming that the launch for the M5 Competition was a few months away, when they launched the regular M5 last year.
With an apparently unveil days away, more details have been leaked onto the internet by BMW Germany – including this image. Much like the M2, M3 and M4 Competition variants, the M5 Competition follows suit, with minor updates to the car, more power and a more focussed drive.
For starters, its 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 powerplant will see in increase in power of 19kw, from 441kw to 460kw – trouncing the Mercedes-AMG E63 S’ 450kw output. Torque is expected to be 800nm, which is still down on the AMG however.
This will translate in a 0-100kph sprint time of just 3.3 seconds – an improvement of 0.1 seconds, while the 0-200kph dash will take a staggering 10.8 seconds. Top speed stands at 305kph with the M Drivers Package.
Also on the cards, is a retuned M xDrive all-wheel drive system, as well as a revised suspension that is both firmer and lower. It’s said to also gain a Competition Pack specific performance exhaust system for more crackle and pops, but this will not be a titanium exhaust. Carbon ceramic brakes are expected to be an optional extra.
The exterior gets a similar treatment to the M2 Competition, with plenty of gloss black touches, include the large kidneys up front, diffuser, mirrors and badges. Speaking of badges, it will have the ‘Competition’ badge directly under the M5 badge at the back – just like the M2. It’s also expected to ride on Y-Spoke 789M wheels. The engine bay too scores a visual upgrade with the installation of an M Carbon Engine Cover.
Deliveries of the M5 Competition are expected to start in September, with pricing and final specification for South Africa expected to be revealed at a later stage.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does the BMW M5 Competition cost in South Africa?
While BMW hasn't announced official South African pricing yet, expect the M5 Competition to start around R2,200,000 when it arrives, which is roughly R200,000 more than the standard M5's launch price.
Q: Is the BMW M5 Competition worth buying over the regular M5?
If you've got the extra cash and want bragging rights over Mercedes-AMG E63 S owners, then yes, the extra 19kW and sharper handling make it worth the premium for serious driving enthusiasts.
Q: How much faster is the M5 Competition compared to the standard M5?
The Competition shaves 0.1 seconds off the 0-100kph time, hitting the mark in just 3.3 seconds, while 0-200kph takes a mental 10.8 seconds thanks to the extra 19kW bump to 460kW.
Q: What are the main differences between the M5 and M5 Competition?
You get 19kW more power (460kW total), firmer and lower suspension, a louder exhaust system, gloss black exterior touches, and Y-Spoke 789M wheels as standard equipment.
Q: When will the BMW M5 Competition be available in South Africa?
Deliveries should start around late 2018 or early 2019, a few months after the global reveal on 8 May 2018, giving BMW South Africa time to sort out local specification and pricing.
Should You Buy It?
The BMW M5 Competition is absolutely worth waiting for if you're shopping in the R2,200,000 bracket and want the ultimate executive express. With 460kW on tap, it's the most powerful production BMW ever sold in South Africa and will embarrass pretty much everything else on the road, including the Mercedes-AMG E63 S. Yes, you'll pay around R200,000 more than the standard M5, but you're getting sharper handling, more drama from the exhaust, and those gorgeous gloss black details that make it look properly menacing. If you've already ordered a regular M5, seriously consider upgrading to the Competition, it's the one to have.
