BMW to Offer M-Package for Regular 5-Series Models

Rather than offering engine upgrades, as with other M-badged vehicles, M-Motorsport used its handling and ride know-how

While the M-Package doesn't feature any engine upgrades, new springs with a higher rate drop the ride height by 0.8 inches, offering better body control and increased stability. (Photo: BMW of North America)

to produce a specially tuned sports suspension for less-endowed 5-Series models. New springs with a higher rate drop the ride height by 20 mm, while offering better body control and increased stability. Eighteen-inch mock-M5 wheels, complete with the metallic 'shadow' finish, are included with the package too. The beautiful split-spoke alloys are wrapped in sticky high performance 245-series rubber for extremely high levels of grip.

If you should so happen to spot an M5 on the streets in the near future, be sure to make a double-pass. When ordered, the M-Package adds an aggressive body kit, featuring new front and rear bumpers with aerodynamically tuned skirts. Like the production M5, the M body kit features the same contorted fins, gaping center intake and amorphous surfaces, making the 5-Series equipped with this specification an M5 look-a-like.

But of course, BMW has its own little clues integrated into the real M5's styling to set it apart, including telltale front fender gills and massive quad tailpipes, plus the fact

As BMW hasn't announced an M5 Touring, the M-Package will be the next best thing. (Photo: BMW of North America)

that no M5 Touring has been announced will make the reworked wagon a dead giveaway. Also, check for badges.

On the inside, BMW has changed things around quite a bit, the extent of which is greater than one might imagine. While drastic plastic surgery isn't a part of the M Package's agenda, highly bolstered front seats trimmed in anthracite Napa leather (Dakota leather for the 545 model), plus a leather-wrapped M-Sport three-spoke steering wheel with multifunction controls, and special aluminum checkerboard trim for the doors, dashboard, center console and shifter surround. M-badged aluminum kick plates and carpeting are also a part of the package.