Used 2019 BMW M5 Competition Sedan Review

Since 1988, the BMW M5 has intrigued driving enthusiasts in the United States with its combination of power, handling precision and four-door practicality. The latest generation of M5 introduced just last year is the most powerful version yet, and it could also be one of the best.

The 2019 M5 packs a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that develops 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. This year's new Competition version ekes out another 17 hp and has a slightly wider torque band, giving it a slight edge in straight-line performance. The sole transmission for the M5 this go-around is an eight-speed automatic. It's as adept at snapping off quick, crisp gear changes as it is at making nearly imperceptible shifts during the daily commute.

A special all-wheel-drive system helps put all that power to use, rather than go to roasting the rear tires all day long. But just in case you're someone who likes to indulge in a roasted tire every once in a while, the M5 has a special rear-drive mode that'll make it readily apparent why BMW decided to make the switch to all-wheel drive. Those familiar with the previous M5 generation should know that this new model is much more dynamically pleasing and engaging to drive. It's still a big sedan, but it hides it pretty well.

The interior is typical BMW — smartly designed and comfortable, but with fewer frills than what you'll find in luxury sedans from Audi and Mercedes-Benz. The seats offer wonderful levels of support and adjustment, and there's no shortage of buttons and switches with which to configure the dizzying amount of system settings. Plenty of features are standard, though BMW still gives you the choice of adding on through a couple of option packages and a handful of extras.

Bottom line: If you'd like to have your sports car and commute in it, too, the M5 is one of the best around. You could even argue it's like two cars in one, if it helps justify the price.

Notably, we picked the 2019 BMW M5 as one of Edmunds' Best Luxury Cars for this year.

The 2019 BMW M5 comes in two variants: standard and Competition. Both are equipped with a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine. It produces 600 horsepower (617 hp for the Competition) and 553 pound-feet of torque. Putting the power to all four wheels is an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Standard feature highlights include 19-inch wheels, a lightweight carbon roof, an adaptive suspension, adaptive LED headlights, a power trunklid, 20-way power-adjustable front seats, a head-up display, heated steering wheel and front seats, ambient interior lighting, Apple CarPlay connectivity and a 10.2-inch touchscreen-based navigation system. The M5 comes with a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system. Standard safety features include lane departure warning, blind-spot detection and front collision mitigation.

There are two option packages. The Driving Assistance Plus package enhances the onboard safety package by adding active lane keeping assist, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Executive package adds a smorgasbord of luxury features such as four-zone climate control, a power rear sunshade with manual side window shades, upgraded front seats with massage and ventilation, heated rear seats, wireless phone charging, an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, automatic soft-close doors, front and rear parking sensors, automatic parking and a surround-view camera system.

Numerous stand-alone options that span performance, luxury and safety features are available. These include larger 20-inch wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, a night vision camera, a rear-seat entertainment system, a sunroof and a 16-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The M Driver's package raises the top speed of the M5 to 189 mph (from 155 mph) and includes a day of professional track driving instruction.