How Fast is BMW’s Dialled-Up M5 Sedan & Tuned M5 Competition?

BMW gave its 6th-generation M5 sedan and more spirited M5 Competition a healthy update for 2021. As far as horsepower goes, however, not much has changed compared to the outgoing model. But maybe that’s a good thing. The M5 Competition does, however, receive more track-worthy goods. 

What’s the 2021 M5’s horsepower?

Powered by an S63 4.4L TwinPower turbocharged V8 engine paired with BMW’s quick-shifting 8-speed M Steptronic transmission, the 2021 M5 will put down a whopping 600 hp at 6,000 rpm and 553 ft-lbs. of torque between 1,800 – 5,690 rpm. The M5 Competition produces 617 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 553 ft-lbs at 1,800 – 5,860 rpm. 

Also read: 2018 BMW M550i Review

The M5 sedan will reach 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 155 mph and 190 mph with the M Driver’s Package; the tuned-out M5 Competition will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds, with the same 155 mph and 190 mph top speeds electronically capped off. 

Both models ride on a rear-biased M xDrive all-wheel drive system to handle all that glorious torque. For further adjustments, xDrive offers three modes (4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD), while the stability control system serves up three more settings for even more control (DSC On, M Dynamic Mode, and DSC Off).

Compared to the 2020 M5, these horsepower figures remain unchanged. But when a German rocket can already provide supercar acceleration packaged into an everyday car with track capabilities, there’s really no need to fix what ain’t broken. 

More horsepower is always welcome, but it’s not always necessary. 600+ ponies from a pair of turbochargers and cross-bank exhaust manifolds will do just fine. 

2021 M5 performance specs

M5 Competition adds a new Track Mode for serious racers

On that note, the new 2021 M5 Competition does receive a new Track mode accessed via the iDrive controller. When activated by pressing and holding down the M Mode button, the system will deactivate the car’s driver assistance system and shut off both the audio system and centre control display. 

Other notable M5 Competition tuning changes include new shock absorbers and a fully recalibrated damper control system.

Here are the performance upgrades to expect with the Competition Package:

• tuned 617-hp engine (17-hp increase over M5 Sedan)
• M Sport exhaust system
• Track mode for closed-track racing
• ramped-up sport suspension
• engine with firmer mounts

Other major 2021 M5 redesign updates

On the styling front, key updates include front and rear design tweaks and some new colour options (Tanzanite Blue II metallic, Aventurine Red II metallic, and the matte finish Frozen Bluestone metallic). Inside, the 2021 M5 receives a larger touchscreen at 12.3 inches, Android Auto alongside Apple CarPlay, cloud-based navigation maps, and new leather inserts.

Release date and pricing

• United States: The 2021 BMW M5 hits dealerships in August 2020, priced at $103,500 for the M5 Sedan and $111,100 for the M5 Competition Sedan. 

• Canada: BMW only offers the tastier M5 Competition at C$121,000, which will also arrive in August 2020.