Costs & verdict
Everyday costs, plus how reliable and safe it is
Only you can decide if spending a six-figure sum on a 600bhp super saloon makes logical sense. Rivals such as the Audi RS6 and Mercedes-AMG E63 are priced in line with the M5 Competition, while the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid occupies the same rarified air as the M5 CS.
That said, paying a third more for the CS over the Competition is still an eye-watering proposition. While the CS is likely to be the swansong for this generation of M5, we doubt it will be a collector’s item – depreciation is likely to be in line with the E63 S and heavier than the RS6 and Panamera.
In fact, the Competition is so well equipped you don’t really have to buy many options, but if you fancy taking your M5 on a track (or on to an autobahn, for that matter) you might want to spec the optional carbon ceramic brakes and the M Driver’s Pack, which increases the top speed from 155mph to an eye-watering 189mph
If you simply want all the goodies, you can just tick the box for the Ultimate Pack, which introduces a carbon-fibre engine cover, massaging seats, seat ventilation, a more powerful stereo, a B&W Diamond Surround Sound System and the ceramic brakes and top speed increase in the M Driver's Pack.
The CS, of course, adds to that list with numerous go-faster goodies including a smattering of carbon-fibre body panels, forged 20in wheels, standard-fit carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-backed lightweight seats, improved engine cooling and an upgraded oil system.
