What's the news?

The BMW M5 is the latest model to receive a styling package from Hamann. Renowned for its not-so-subtle body kits, Hamann's efforts on the M5 "Mission" certainly won't go unnoticed.

Exterior

The upgrade starts at the front, where a new bumper, large splitter and massive air vents have been fitted. The double-kidney grille is also bigger, and has been extended past the headlights. Flared wheelarches, side skirts and revised doors add 60mm to the car's width, but add very little weight thanks to their carbon-fibre construction. Round the back, a new rear wing has been added, as well as a diffuser that houses four chrome exhaust outlets. The M5's aggressive new look is finished off by black 21-inch alloy wheels that contrast with the car's Alpine White body.

As well as looking spectacular, the new body kit should prove aerodynamically efficient on the road, with claims from Hamann that the rear spoiler provides 'much better contact with the pavement'.

Interior

The same shade of Alpine White used on the exterior can be found on the leather lining of the M5's seats. Carbon fibre inserts and aluminium pedals help continue the sporty image as well. The Hamann M5 Mission also retains BMW's high-quality cabin, as all the gadgets, fixtures and fittings have been taken from the standard model.

Mechanicals

Power for the tweaked M5 still comes from the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine found in the standard version. Hamann has fitted its own suspension however, firming up the ride and lowering the car by 35mm. Wide 305mm tyres have been fitted at the back too, which should aid traction as well as help to keep the rear end in check.

Anything else?

The Mission upgrades cost somewhere in the region of £16,000. Order books are open now - although UK availability has yet to be announced.

James Giddings - 9 Apr 2013