The 2016 BMW M5 Competition Package represents the pinnacle of the regular F10-generation M5 range and one of the most accomplished performance saloons of its era. The F10 M5 itself made its debut in 2011 as the first M5 in history to use a turbocharged engine.

Introduced in 2013, the Competition Package became one of the most desirable configurations of the F10, adding more power, a sharper chassis and a noticeably more focused driving character without becoming a separate limited-production model.

Under the bonnet sits BMW’s 4.4-litre S63B44TU twin-turbocharged V8, with its twin-scroll turbochargers mounted between the cylinder banks. In Competition Package specification it produces 575 PS between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm and 680 Nm of torque across a broad 1,500–6,000 rpm range.

Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels through a seven-speed M DCT Drivelogic dual-clutch transmission and the Active M Differential. The M5 Competition Package accelerates from 0–100 km/h in approximately 4.2 seconds and, when equipped with the M Driver’s Package, can reach a top speed of 305 km/h.

The S63 delivers a very different character from the high-revving V10 of the previous E60 generation. Its substantial torque gives the car immense performance from low revs, allowing it to accelerate with remarkable intensity at virtually any speed. Yet the engine still pulls beyond 7,000 rpm and delivers the distinctive soundtrack expected from a powerful V8.

The Competition Package was about much more than additional power. It brought stiffer springs and dampers, revised anti-roll bars, recalibrated Servotronic steering, a more aggressive Active M Differential setup and a 10 mm lower ride height. Together, these changes made the car more precise, agile and composed during fast driving.

The package also included distinctive 20-inch M Double Spoke Style 601M wheels and a sports exhaust system with a more pronounced soundtrack.

Visually, the M5 remained deliberately understated. Wider wheelarches, more aggressive bumpers, four exhaust outlets and model-specific wheels hinted at the performance underneath, yet the car retained the appearance of an elegant executive saloon. That ability to disguise extraordinary performance beneath the body of a practical four-door car has always been one of the M5’s defining qualities.

Inside, the M5 combines luxury with a clear performance focus. M multifunction sports seats, high-quality leather trim, a Head-Up Display and an extensive range of comfort equipment make it equally suited to everyday use and high-speed long-distance driving. Despite its performance, it retains much of the refinement and comfort for which the 5 Series has traditionally been known.

The 2016 BMW M5 Competition Package represents the peak of the regular F10-generation M5. It combines immense performance, comfort and practicality while retaining the classic rear-wheel-drive layout.

For many BMW enthusiasts, it also marks the end of a particular M5 formula: a powerful V8, a dual-clutch gearbox and pure rear-wheel drive, before the model moved to an all-wheel-drive architecture. That combination has helped make the F10 Competition Package one of the most desirable modern M5s and an increasingly compelling modern classic.