2021 BMW M5 review
BMW M5 highlights
Customer rating
(not yet rated)
Pros
- Powerful V8 engine
- Choice of rear- or all-wheel drive on the fly
- Comfortable and practical
Cons
- Not as luxurious as some rivals
- Complicated drive modes
- High price of purchase and operation
Mileage (EPA estimate)
15 city, 21 highway, 17 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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The 2021 BMW M5 brings big performance and big luxury
Performance isn't exclusive to smaller coupes and sedans, and the 2021 BMW M5 proves that. This midsize luxury sedan takes everything that makes the 5 Series great and shoehorns a ridiculously powerful V8 engine under the hood. Helping to make all of that power manageable is a smart all-wheel-drive system that can be switched to rear-wheel drive for more spirited driving. For 2021, the M5 receives a minor styling update with a more squared-off grille, revised headlights, and more faceted bodywork. It's not all cosmetic either, as the optional Competition package receives some new suspension tuning for even sharper handling. On the inside, there's a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen along with wireless versions of Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The M5 is an excellent choice for luxury performance, though. It competes against the Mercedes-AMG E 63 S, Audi RS 7, and Porsche Panamera. All of these are worthy alternatives, but the M5 scores points with its more lively dynamics.
All BMW M5 years
What is new for the 2021 BMW M5?
- The Competition trim has been discontinued for 2021.
- M5 trims have been upgraded with Remote Start, Power Hatch/Deck Lid, and Android Auto as standard equipment this year.
- Run Flat Tires features are now available as options on select trims.
2021 BMW M5 trims
Base:
- 600-hp, 553-lb-ft of torque 4.4L
- Adjustable Suspension
- Parking Sensors
- Memory Seats
- Front Seat Heaters
- Power Seats
- Leather Seats
- Remote Start
- Rear View Camera
- View our BMW M5 inventory
5 reasons to buy the 2021 BMW M5
What We Like
Powerful engine: The M5's turbocharged V8 engine produces up to 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, which is good enough to vault to 60 mph in only 3.2 seconds. That's an impressive feat for a 4,400-pound midsize luxury sedan. Just as notable is how easy it is to achieve that kind of acceleration, thanks to the traction that comes from all-wheel drive and launch control.
Rear- or all-wheel drive: All-wheel drive is a welcome addition to this generation of M5s that debuted in 2018. It delivers plenty of reassuring traction and stability in any driving condition, though enthusiasts will likely prefer the challenge and theatrics of rear-wheel drive. The good thing is, you can switch between either with the touch of a button (if you pre-program one of the red M buttons to control this function).
Comfort and convenience: Just because the M5 is famous for its potent engine and sharp handling doesn't mean you have to sacrifice comfort. The M5's ride quality is firmer than the regular 5 Series, but not at all harsh. It's a good balance of compliance to soak up bumps in the road and stiffness to keep body roll in check when cornering. Adding to the experience are front seats that remain agreeable after many hours.
What Needs Improvement
Not as luxurious as rivals: While the M5 is relatively comfortable and spacious inside, there's little to differentiate it from less expensive models in the BMW lineup. Aside from some aesthetic flourishes, the M5's cockpit could easily be mistaken for the smaller 3 Series, which has a similar dash and center console. The quality of materials is good, but for a car that cost more than $100,000 when new in 2021, we expect greatness.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
The 2021 BMW M5 is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.
RepairPal gave the BMW M5 an overall reliability rating of 2 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Below Average. This rating ranks BMW M5 44th out of 48 among Luxury Fullsize Cars.
View RepairPal's full rating of the BMW M52021 BMW M5 FAQ
The 2021 BMW M5 offers 15 MPG City and 21 MPG Highway. It is important to remember factors such as driving style, weather conditions, and the use of features such as Eco mode can impact fuel efficiency.
The BMW M5 received a rating of 2 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Below Average. This rating ranks the BMW M5 as 43 out of 48 among Luxury Fullsize Car
Here is what's new for the 2021 BMW M5:
- Remote Start
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Android Auto
- Run Flat Tires
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