Time for a new BMW M5 already?
Not quite. This is the new BMW M5 Competition, a fresh and standalone model in the line-up, following on from its li'l brother, the M2 Competition. The same formula is followed here, so there's more power, some chassis updates and a few visual tweaks here and there.
I thought 600hp was plenty...
You're not alone, but BMW M engineers aren't like you and me, so the M5 Competition's retuned twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 makes up to 625hp. Peak torque is still an eye-watering 750Nm, though it's on tap for a little more of the rev range now and no doubt helps with BMW's claim that the M5 Competition can dispatch the 0-62mph sprint in 3.3 seconds - a tenth quicker than the regular car.
Of just as much interest is BMW's move to stiffer engine mounts. These should result in better throttle response and more of a connected feeling to the engine through the car, but also promise more precise steering and cornering. Enhancing that further are tweaks to both anti-roll bars, ten per cent stiffer springs and a 7mm drop in ride height, among other detail changes to the suspension, all designed to make the M5 Competition feel a little tauter and more driver-focused.
You mentioned new equipment?
Indeed, starting with a model-specific sports exhaust system, which has switchable modes through the M Sound Control button. That's identified by new black chrome finishers at the back, nestling in a new gloss black bumper surround. Indeed, black is the theme of the visual updates, as it's applied to the kidney grille up front, the door mirrors, side gills and new 'M5 Competition' badge. In case you miss all that, this car comes with a bespoke set of 20-inch forged alloy wheels, too. Inside, there are more badges, plus seat belts with M stripes.
Sign me up!
You'll have to wait, as the M5 Competition doesn't go into production until July. First orders are due here in September and the starting price is £96,205 on-the-road.
Shane O' Donoghue - 8 May 2018