The facelifted BMW M5, which is set to launch in July 2013, will benefit from minor updates and a new ‘Competition Package’.
Little has changed mechanically, with the car retaining the 552bhp twin-turbo V8 and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The new competition package, however, boosts output to 567bhp for those wanting “outstanding dynamic driving performance”.
Externally, the key changes include a new grille, new-design tail lights, optional adaptive LED headlights and several additional paint schemes, including matt finishes.
The changes are similarly minor inside, with the high-performance saloon receiving a different steering wheel, a larger storage compartment under the armrest and chrome trim on the iDrive’s control display. An optional touch control is offered for the iDrive system as well, for the first time.
The M5’s assistance systems have also been upgraded to improve driver comfort and safety. The M5 now gets a ‘Driving Assistant’ feature which combines lane departure warning, collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Other upgrades to the BMW include optional automatic main beam assistance, a lane-change warning system that now operates from upwards of 12.4mph, and an ‘Online Entertainment’ pack which allows the car to access a database containing 12 million tracks.