Vehicle photos
Our Review
The 2021 BMW M5 is the pinnacle of performance engineering from BMW. It features a powerful 4.4L twin-turbocharged V-8 engine that churns out an incredible 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system allows both experienced and inexperienced drivers alike to handle the M5 with ease, providing a professional driving experience on any terrain. The vehicle's sleek exterior complements its excellent performance, and its interior is reminiscent of BMW's 5 Series sedan, with dual infotainment screens and premium leather seats. With all this in mind, it is no surprise that the 2021 BMW M5 commands an expensive sticker price; however, if you are willing to invest generously in premium comfort and luxury, the 2021 BMW M5 simply cannot be beaten!
What's New BMW has completely revamped the 2021 M5 with a more prominent grille, stunningly updated front and rear bumpers, as well as newly styled headlights and taillights. Inside, perhaps the most notable difference is an upgraded 12.3-inch touchscreen that replaces last year's 10.25-inch display; this system also brings Android Auto support along with other cloud-based navigation features to create a never before seen level of sophistication in car design. Outside, the 2021 M5 offers several fresh paint options to choose from and as an extra bonus, the standard brake calipers come in either high-gloss black or red. The Competition model comes with a stylish, all-new full Merino leather color, the exclusive Track drive mode, and top-of-the-line shock absorbers. These dampers are equipped with BMW's specialized control system that ensures maximum comfort while driving at high speeds. 
We will be honest with you...if you have the money the M5 Competition is the model to choose. Not only does it come with an increase in horsepower compared to its counterpart but it also features extra chassis parts and tuning for maximum performance and agility. After all, if we're dropping six figures on a sports sedan, why not go for the beast of the two? The M5 Comp comes with 20-inch wheels, dark exterior accents, and an amplified M Sport exhaust system to enrich your driving experience. Every trim has a wealth of desirable amenities; however, we suggest upgrading the model further with the Executive Package. This exciting upgrade includes a 360-degree camera system, luxurious ventilated front seats with built-in massagers, heated front and rear seats, parking sensors, and power-operated curtains on the back windows for privacy while parked or driving. Plus it has self-parking assist technology which makes parallel parking a breeze. And if that wasn't enough you'll also get soft close doors that shut on their own; making this vehicle one seriously luxurious ride.
The M5 boasts an impressive twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine that produces a whopping 600 horsepower and 553 lb.-ft of torque, quickly accelerating it to 60 mph in a staggering 2.8 seconds with a 10.9-second quarter mile at 129 mph (speed limited up to 163 mph). The updated M5 Competition model bumps up the horsepower 17 notches. While some may be disheartened by its discontinuation of the manual gearbox and all-wheel drive system, this updated BMW has a tech-savvy engine that can send 100 percent of power to the rear wheels for an invigorating ride. the 2021 M5 delivers unbridled driving pleasure with spirited and precise steering, a resolute (although admittedly stiff) ride quality, and exceptional cornering grip. The M5 can also double as an opulent sedan; when in Comfort Mode it sails calmly through the streets while featuring a cabin that is utterly tranquil.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
According to the EPA, the 2021 M5 will achieve 15 mpg in city driving and 21 mpg on highways which is slightly lower than that of its rival, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S sedan (16/23). However, when our team tested it out on a 75mph highway fuel economy route as part of our comprehensive testing process, it exceeded expectations with 24mpg.When you step inside the M5, you are immediately welcomed with a luxurious leather interior complete with supple and supportive performance-style seats. A number of competitors have implemented all-touchscreen systems, but BMW has opted not to do so. Because of this, the driver's seat is designed to give you maximum control while driving, so making quick changes to the climate settings or the radio station won't distract you while you're driving. Not only does the M5 offer desirable standard features such as a heated steering wheel, customizable ambient interior lighting, and a power-adjustable steering column, but further options include four-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats with massage functions, and heated rear seats. It can also carry six carry-on suitcases in its trunk, so you've got plenty of space for those weekend getaways.
The M5 boasts a remarkable 12.3-inch touchscreen display which is the latest in BMW's iDrive infotainment software, situated atop the dash and managed by an easy-to-use rotary knob center console for your convenience. A Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are all standard. You'll also get fantastic sound quality with its Harman/Kardon audio system, as well as wireless charging. If that wasn't enough - there are additional optional features such as rear seat entertainment systems and Bowers & Wilkins 1400 Watt speakers available too.
While the 2021 M5 hasn't been through National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash testing yet, it does feature a number of safety features, including automatic high beams and blind spot monitoring. Key safety features include:
While BMW's warranties and powertrain protection are as impressive as any other luxury automaker, its complimentary scheduled maintenance package is simply unmatched.
Price Comparison
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class - $55,300
2021 Audi A6 - $55,945
2021 Porsche Panamera - $87,200
2021 BMW M5 - $103,500
2021 Audi RS 7 - $114,000Vehicle Rating
Recalls, Complaints and Safety Issues
Issue:
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X3 sDrive 30i, X3 xDrive 30i, X3M 40i, X3 xDrive 30e, X4 xDrive 30i, X4M 40i, 530i, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 550e, 550e xDrive, and 550e iPerformance vehicles. A small portion of the rearview image may be slightly obscured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."Remedy:
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, program the rearview camera with updated software. The recall began November 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Complaint Date:
12/30/2020Vehicle:
2021 BMW M5Number of Injuries:
0Issue:
THE REVERSE BACKUP LIGHTS AND CAMERA IMAGE IS SO DIM AND LIMITED AS BE UNUSABLE AND VERY UNSAFE WHEN BACKING UP AT NIGHT IN DARKNESS. DEALER SERVICE COULD NOT FIX AS DESIGNED IN! I BELIEVE SAME SYSTEM USED ON ALL 2021 SERIES 5 CARS. LEFT CAR AT DEALER WITH FOBS AS I AM REFUSING THE CAR CANCELLING SALE AS HIDDEN DEFECT UNSAFE AND NOT FIXABLE PER DEALER SERVICE MGR. ATTACHED PHOTOS ARE ACTUALLY BRIGHTER THAN WHAT DRIVER SEES. VIEW IS FROM MY GARAGE AND DRIVEWAY TO BACKUP. RED TINT IS BREAK LIGHTS STRONGER THAN WEAK BACKUP LIGHTS ALL VERY ABNORMALLY DIM WITH VERY RESTRICTED ILLUMINATED VIEW.
Vehicle Specifications
- Alvite Grey Metallic
- Frozen Bluestone Metallic
- Marina Bay Blue Metallic
- Donington Grey Metallic
- Black Sapphire Metallic
- Alpine White
- Snapper Rocks Blue Metallic
- Bluestone Metallic
- Tanzanite Blue II Metallic
- (Ind) Aventurin Red Metallic
- Motegi Red Metallic
- Brands Hatch Grey Metallic
- Smoke White/Black Full Merino (Individual), premium leather
- Aragon Brown Full Merino, premium leather
- Black Full Merino w/Midrand Beige, premium leather
- Black Full Merino, premium leather
- Tartufo Full Merino (Individual), premium leather
- Black Extended Merino, premium leather
- Aragon Brown Extended Merino, premium leather
- Silverstone Extended Merino, premium leather
- Silverstone Full Merino, premium leather
