When I first slid behind the wheel of the BMW M5 Competition, I knew I was in for something special. This is not just another sedan—it’s a high-performance beast disguised as a luxury saloon. In this full review I’ll cover everything from the engine and performance, to design, features, driving experience and how it stacks up against rivals. I’ll share it in a conversational tone—as if I’m telling a friend about my drive—so you get the full picture.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The BMW M5 Competition takes the already formidable base M5 and amplifies it. With stronger power, sharper handling and richer character, it stands out among high-performance executive cars. If you’re considering a serious performance sedan that blends everyday usability with track-capable thrills, this car deserves your attention.
Engine, Power & Performance
Under the bonnet the BMW M5 Competition packs a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine (for earlier F90 generation) delivering roughly 460 kW (625 hp) and 750 Nm torque in one version. For newer/plug-in hybrid versions of the M5, power outputs climb even higher: up to 535 kW (727 hp) and 1,000 Nm torque.
What that means in real-world terms: 0-100 km/h in about 3.3 seconds for the Competition version (earlier F90). The top speed with optional M Driver’s Package is around 305 km/h.
The drivetrain features the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system that can shift to pure rear-wheel drive mode (2WD) for more performance-oriented driving.
In short: the BMW M5 Competition is blisteringly quick, yet retains a refined feel for everyday roads.
Design & Exterior
Visually, the BMW M5 Competition announces itself. Wide hips, aggressive front fascia, large air intakes, quad exhausts, and subtle but sporty touches set it apart from a standard 5 Series. The ride height is closer to the ground (in some versions 7 mm lower) and suspension tweaks are made for sharper responses.
Other design highlights include the M-specific signature kidney grille (on newer models with “Iconic Glow”), optional M Carbon roof, carbon mirror caps, and high-gloss black badging and trim.
My takeaway: this car looks the part of a premium performance sedan. It’s not over-the-top shouty, but it’s clear the car means business.
Interior & Features
Step inside the BMW M5 Competition and the blend of luxury and sportiness becomes evident. You’ll find high-quality materials, sport seats, M badging, and plenty of technology.
Plenty of driver-oriented features: a thick M steering wheel, paddle shifters, configurable drive modes, and an infotainment system that keeps you connected and in control. The seats offer firm support, especially in more dynamic driving.
On the luxury side there’s premium leather, optional carbon-fibre trims, and a comfortable cabin for everyday use. Rear seats are usable (though the focus is more driver-centric than a typical business sedan).
In short: the interior works as both a luxury car and a performance tool.
Driving Experience
This is where the BMW M5 Competition really shines. On normal roads it behaves like a sophisticated luxury sedan—you get comfort, refinement and surprising quiet when you want it. But flick the drive mode into Sport or Track and you feel the transformation.
The steering is sharp, the chassis tight, and the power delivery is instant. When you hammer the throttle the car lunges forward—0-100 km/h happens in a flash. The all-wheel-drive helps traction, especially from a standstill or in slippery situations. Switch to 2WD mode and you can get more rear-wheel drift and playful behaviour—fun on closed circuits or when you want the full “M” experience.
Braking, handling and cornering are all up to the job. The suspension firms up in sporty modes, giving confidence when you push hard. I found the car balances daily usability with hardcore performance surprisingly well. If I had to pick a quirk: on the strictest settings the ride can get firm for everyday pothole-ridden roads—but that’s the trade-off for performance.
Technology & Safety
The BMW M5 Competition is loaded with tech. Digital instrument cluster, head-up display, advanced driver assistance (lane keep, forward collision warning, automatic braking), multiple drive modes (Comfort, Sport, Sport+), adaptive suspension, and selectable exhaust mode are all part of the package.
In terms of safety and convenience, it’s well equipped: parking sensors, cameras, advanced infotainment with connectivity, and optional upgrades like carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon bucket seats, etc. The technology ensures the car can handle daily commuting, long trips, and spirited drives equally.
Comparison to Rivals
Let’s compare the BMW M5 Competition to a couple of its key rivals to see where it stands.
- Compared to the Mercedes‑AMG E63 S: The E63 S also offers massive power and luxury, but the BMW edges ahead in driver engagement (for me) and the all-wheel-drive system that still allows rear-wheel drift.
- Compared to the Porsche Panamera Turbo S: Porsche offers exquisite handling and refinement, but at a higher cost and with less of the “straight-line monster” feel the M5 Competition has.
- Compared to the standard BMW M5: The Competition version offers crisper handling, extra power and more aggressive tuning. If you already like the M5, the Competition version is the logical step up if you want more performance.
In everyday use the BMW M5 Competition wins on versatility: you can drive it quietly, or you can unleash it. Some rivals may lean more toward luxury or track focus, but this car strikes a very competent balance.
Features & Equipment Highlights
Here are some standout features I found especially worth noting:
- Drive modes: Comfort, Sport, Sport+ plus Track/Drift (depending on configuration)
- M xDrive all-wheel drive with switch to 2WD mode
- Adaptive M suspension with electronic dampers
- M Sport exhaust system with variable flaps for sound control
- High-performance brakes (optionally carbon-ceramic)
- Premium interior materials, sport bucket seats, M trim elements
- Advanced infotainment with connectivity (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto etc)
- Driver assistance features for everyday safety
These features make the BMW M5 Competition not just a performance car, but a usable luxury car for daily life—or weekend track days.
Practicality, Running Costs & Ownership
A car as powerful as the BMW M5 Competition is going to come with some practical considerations. Fuel economy will be modest compared to regular sedans, maintenance costs will be higher, and insurance will reflect the high performance. Also, tyres and brakes will cost more if you drive it aggressively.
On the practical side: yes, rear seats exist, you have a usable trunk, and the cabin is comfortable for four adults. For everyday commuting it’s not overly harsh (unless you’re on track mode constantly). If you’re buying a car of this nature you accept that the running costs come with the territory—but you also get performance few sedans can match.
In short: if you happily accept the higher running costs and focus on performance, it works. If low cost ownership is your priority, maybe a less extreme car would be better.
Final Thoughts
If you ask me: the BMW M5 Competition is one of the best high-performance luxury sedans out there. It gives you brutal power, excellent handling, cutting-edge tech, and a level of everyday usability that few supercars offer. It’s not perfect—running costs are high, and unless you use it in a spirited manner you might feel you’re not fully exploiting it—but if you’re after the ultimate “daily driver that can absolutely hammer” experience, this hits hard.
Would I recommend it? Yes—if you have the budget, you’ll use it, and you value both performance and practicality. Otherwise, one step down might suit you better. But for driving purists who still want luxo-sedan comfort, the BMW M5 Competition ticks all the right boxes.
If you like, I can pull together a detailed spec sheet (with Indian pricing if available) and show how the BMW M5 Competition compares model-year by model-year. Want that?
Outbound link (official site): BMW M5 Sedan – BMW India
Internal link (for my site): KTM Duke 250 vs Bajaj Dominar 250 full review