Overview
With a twin-turbo V-8 that churns out up to 617 horsepower, the 2021 BMW M5 deserves a more explicit classification than mere sports sedan. It also earned a spot on our Editors' Choice list. Although based on the normal 5-series and sharing an equally elegant interior, the mighty Bimmer is transformed by the company's high-performance M division. Sure, its mission to outrun some of the best sports cars is veiled by its relatively subdued appearance, but simply mat the accelerator and hold on as the M5 blasts ahead like a cruise missile.
Interior
BMW freshens up the 2021 M5 with a larger grille, restyled front and rear bumpers, and updated headlights and taillights. Inside, the most notable change is a new 12.3-inch touchscreen that replaces last year's 10.25-inch display. The system also adds Android Auto, cloud-based navigation features, and other improvements. Less obvious are the revised M mode settings, which are now easier to access thanks to being consolidated into a single button.
Exterior
The M5 Comp also has 20-inch wheels, extra black exterior accents, and a standard M Sport exhaust system that increases the volume of the engine's soundtrack. While every model has a smorgasbord of desirable features, we'd further upgrade our M5 with the Executive package. This adds a 360-degree camera system, ventilated front-seat cushions with built-in massagers, heated front and rear seats, parking sensors at both ends, power-operated rear window shades, self-parking assist, and soft-close automatic doors.
Specs
The M5 faithful will lament the discontinued manual gearbox and unfamiliar all-wheel-drive system, but this Bimmer has a high-tech drivetrain that can send 100 percent of power to the rear wheels for pure rear-drive personality. Driving enjoyment is maximized here with lively and direct steering, a well-controlled (borderline stiff) ride, and heroic cornering grip. That doesn't mean the M5 can't also do duty as a luxury sedan: In Comfort mode, it cruises placidly, and the cabin is whisper quiet.
Exterior Color
Interior
Engine
8-speed automatic
Power
Premium unleaded
Transmission
4.4L, 32 valve V8
Seating Capacity
Twin turbocharged
Drive Features
553 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
Special Features
617 hp @ 6000 rpm
