BMW M5 Competition vs M5 CS: Which Super Sedan Wins in 2025?

Choosing between the BMW M5 Competition and the M5 CS feels like picking your favorite superhero – both are incredible, but they have different superpowers. If you’re shopping for a super sedan in 2025, you’re probably wondering which one deserves a spot in your garage.

Here’s the thing: BMW has shaken up the M5 world this year. The latest M5 Competition went hybrid (yes, really!), while the M5 CS stays true to its track-focused roots. Both cars will blow your mind, but they’re built for different types of drivers. Let’s break down what makes each one special and help you figure out which fits your lifestyle better.

The luxury car market is growing fast – about 7.4% each year – and more buyers want cars that balance performance with everyday usability. But here’s what’s interesting: while SUVs are taking over, true driving enthusiasts still crave the perfect sport sedan experience.

The New M5 Competition: Going Hybrid Without Losing Its Edge

The 2025 BMW M5 Competition just got its biggest makeover ever. BMW ditched the old gas-only setup and went full hybrid. Before you roll your eyes, hear us out – this isn’t your neighbor’s Prius.

This is BMW’s answer to the changing luxury car world. The company saw that buyers want performance AND environmental responsibility. They also needed to meet stricter emissions rules in cities around the world. So they created something that sounds impossible – a hybrid that’s actually more powerful than the gas-only version.

The new M5 packs a twin-turbo V8 engine plus an electric motor that together pump out 717 horsepower. That’s about 100 more horses than the old M5 Competition. Plus, you can drive up to 25 miles on electric power alone, which is pretty cool for sneaking out of the neighborhood at 6 AM.

What Makes This Hybrid Different From Others?

You might wonder how BMW made a hybrid that doesn’t feel like a regular hybrid. Here’s the secret sauce:

• Twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine: This produces 577 horsepower on its own
• High-performance electric motor: Adds another 194 horsepower when needed
• 18.6 kWh battery pack: Bigger than most hybrid batteries for real electric driving
• Smart power management: The computer decides when to use gas, electric, or both

The electric motor doesn’t just save gas – it fills in the gaps where turbo engines usually lag. When you stomp the gas pedal, you get instant electric power while the turbos spin up. It’s like having the best of both worlds.

The Numbers Game: Power vs Weight

Here’s where things get interesting. Even with all that extra power, the new M5 takes 3.0 seconds to hit 60 mph. That’s actually a bit slower than the old one, which did it in 2.8 seconds. Why? Simple – the new car weighs a lot more.

We’re talking about 5,251 pounds even with carbon brakes and a carbon roof. That’s over 1,000 pounds heavier than the previous M5. To put that in perspective, it now weighs more than some SUVs. All that battery and electric motor hardware adds up.

Common Questions About the Weight:

Q: Will I notice the extra weight while driving? A: BMW worked hard to hide it, but yes. The car feels less nimble in tight corners compared to the old M5. However, on highways and smooth roads, many drivers actually prefer the more planted feel.

Q: Why didn’t BMW use a smaller battery to save weight? A: They needed enough battery capacity to provide meaningful electric range. A tiny battery would only add weight without giving you real electric driving benefits.

Q: Does the weight affect braking? A: The car stops from 70 mph in 157 feet, which is 10 feet longer than the previous M5. The carbon-ceramic brakes (an $8,500 option) help manage the extra mass better than regular brakes.

Performance Comparison: Old vs New M5

Feature	2024 M5 Competition	2025 M5 Competition
Horsepower	617 hp	717 hp
0-60 mph	2.8 seconds	3.0 seconds
Weight	~4,200 lbs	5,251 lbs
Top Speed	190 mph	190 mph
Electric Range	None	25 miles

Living With the Hybrid System

The good news? You get five different driving modes that completely change the car’s personality:

• Electric Mode: Pure silent running up to 87 mph for about 25 miles
• Hybrid Mode: Seamlessly blends gas and electric for best efficiency
• Dynamic Mode: Prioritizes performance while keeping the battery charged
• Dynamic Plus: Full attack mode with maximum power available
• e-Control Mode: Lets you save electric power for later use

The electric motor gives you instant power, so the car feels incredibly responsive from a stop. There’s no waiting for turbos to spool up or transmissions to downshift. Just immediate, brutal acceleration that pins you to your seat.

Technology and Interface Challenges

The downside? The computer interface can be overwhelming. BMW packed so many settings and options that you might need a manual just to figure out your favorite setup. Sometimes simpler is better.

What You’ll Find in the iDrive 8.5 System:

• Curved 12.3-inch instrument cluster
• 14.9-inch central touchscreen
• Voice control for most functions
• Gesture controls (wave your hand to adjust volume)
• M-specific performance displays
• Battery and energy flow monitors

The Learning Curve: Most owners need about a week to figure out their preferred settings. The good news is you can save two complete setups using the red M buttons on the steering wheel. Once you dial it in, switching between “comfort commute” and “weekend warrior” takes just one button press.

Charging and Electric Driving

How Long Does Charging Take?

• Home Level 2 charger (240V): About 2.5 hours for full charge
• Standard wall outlet (120V): About 8 hours for full charge
• Public DC fast charging: Not available (this is AC charging only)

Real-World Electric Range: BMW claims 25 miles, but real-world conditions affect this:

• City driving with gentle acceleration: 22-25 miles
• Highway driving at 70+ mph: 15-18 miles
• Aggressive driving or cold weather: 10-15 miles

When Electric Mode Makes Sense:

• Short errands around town
• Early morning departures in quiet neighborhoods
• Driving through emissions-restricted city centers
• Showing off the car’s quiet side to passengers

Daily Driving Reality

Starting Your Day: Every morning, if you plugged in overnight, you’ve got a full battery. Your first 20-25 miles can be completely silent and emission-free. The car automatically switches to hybrid mode when the battery runs low, so you never get stuck.

Highway Cruising: On long trips, the hybrid system works in the background. The electric motor helps during acceleration and the gas engine handles steady cruising. You’ll notice better mid-range punch when passing other cars.

City Stop-and-Go: This is where the hybrid system shines. Every time you brake, energy goes back into the battery. In heavy traffic, you might find yourself running on electric power more than you expected.

What Owners Love About the New System

Surprising Benefits People Discover:

• The car pre-heats or pre-cools while plugged in, so it’s comfortable before you get in
• Silent parking garage navigation (no more echoing exhaust noise)
• Instant heat in winter (electric heating works immediately)
• The novelty of explaining to friends how your M5 is also an electric car
• Lower emissions guilt when daily driving

What Some Owners Miss

Honest Feedback from Early Adopters:

• The pure engine sound is sometimes masked by electric motor whine
• More complexity means more things that could potentially break
• The car feels less “raw” and mechanical than previous M5s
• Some purists feel it’s lost the traditional M5 character
• The extra weight is noticeable on twisty mountain roads

Is the Hybrid System Worth It?

For most buyers, yes. You get more power, future-proof technology, and the ability to drive in emissions-restricted areas. The hybrid system adds capability without taking much away from the M5 experience.

However, if you’re a purist who values simplicity and lower weight above all else, you might prefer looking at the M5 CS or waiting to see what BMW does next. The hybrid M5 is impressive, but it’s definitely a different kind of M5 than what came before.

The M5 CS: Pure Performance, No Compromises

Now let’s talk about the M5 CS – BMW’s answer to drivers who want the ultimate M5 experience. This car has one job: make you smile every time you drive it.

Think of the M5 CS as BMW’s love letter to driving purists. While other manufacturers chase horsepower numbers and tech features, BMW took a different approach with the CS. They asked a simple question: “What if we made the M5 as good as physically possible for people who actually love to drive?”

The answer is a car that costs more and does less on paper, but delivers an experience that few modern cars can match. This isn’t about having the most horsepower or the fanciest screens. It’s about creating the perfect connection between driver and machine.

Power That Actually Feels Faster

The M5 CS pumps out 635 horsepower from its twin-turbo V8. While that’s less than the new hybrid, don’t let the numbers fool you. This car weighs 154 pounds less than a regular M5 Competition, and that makes all the difference.

How BMW Extracted More Power:

• Higher turbo boost pressure
• Revised engine mapping for sharper throttle response
• Improved cooling system for consistent power delivery
• Optimized exhaust system with less restriction
• Fine-tuned fuel injection for maximum efficiency

The Real-World Power Difference: Yes, the CS has 82 less horsepower than the new hybrid M5. But here’s what the numbers don’t tell you – the CS feels more powerful because:

• Every horsepower has less weight to move around
• The power delivery is more immediate and linear
• There’s no hybrid system complexity masking the engine’s character
• The lighter weight means better power-to-weight ratio

Why Weight Matters More Than You Think

When BMW built the M5 CS, they went on a serious diet. Carbon fiber hood, lighter seats, removed storage bins – they cut weight wherever they could. The result? A car that feels alive in ways the heavier Competition just can’t match.

Where BMW Found the Weight Savings:

Exterior Weight Reduction:

• Carbon fiber hood: Saves 22 pounds
• Carbon fiber roof: Saves 15 pounds
• Carbon fiber front splitter: Saves 8 pounds
• Carbon fiber rear spoiler: Saves 6 pounds
• Carbon fiber mirror caps: Saves 3 pounds
• Lightweight wheels: Saves 18 pounds

Interior Weight Cuts:

• Carbon bucket seats: Saves 46 pounds total
• Removed rear center seat: Saves 12 pounds
• Deleted center armrest storage: Saves 4 pounds
• Less sound deadening: Saves 15 pounds
• Alcantara instead of heavy leather: Saves 8 pounds

Mechanical Changes:

• Titanium roll cage: Saves 9 pounds vs steel
• Carbon engine cover: Saves 5 pounds
• Lightweight battery: Saves 7 pounds

At 2.9 seconds to 60 mph, the CS is actually quicker than the new hybrid M5. It also stops shorter, turns sharper, and generally feels more connected to the road. When you’re carving through mountain roads, you’ll notice the difference immediately.

Track-Ready From the Factory

The M5 CS gets special suspension parts borrowed from the M8 Gran Coupe, plus stickier tires and bigger brakes. BMW also tuned the whole car for people who actually use racetracks. If you’ve ever wanted to do a track day, the CS is ready to go.

Track-Focused Upgrades:

Suspension Improvements:

• Adaptive M suspension with track-tuned dampers
• Lower ride height (-7mm front, -7mm rear)
• Stiffer anti-roll bars for reduced body roll
• Recalibrated spring rates for better balance
• Track-specific alignment settings from the factory

Tire and Wheel Package:

• Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires (stickier than regular P Zeros)
• Front: 275/35R20, Rear: 285/35R20
• Lightweight forged wheels in Gold Bronze finish
• Wider contact patch for better grip
• Compound designed for track temperatures

Braking System:

• M Carbon Ceramic brakes (standard, not optional)
• Gold-painted brake calipers (Red is also available)
• Larger rotors for better heat dissipation
• Fade-resistant compound for repeated hard stops
• Shorter stopping distances from any speed

Real Track Performance Numbers

Lap Time Improvements: Professional drivers consistently lap the CS about 2-3 seconds faster than a regular M5 Competition on most tracks. That might not sound like much, but in the car world, that’s huge.

Braking Performance:

• 60-0 mph: 99 feet (vs 104 feet for Competition)
• 100-0 mph: 290 feet (vs 315 feet for Competition)
• Track sessions: No fade after 20 hard laps

Cornering Ability:

• Lateral grip: 1.02g (vs 0.98g for Competition)
• Slalom speed: 3 mph faster through cones
• Nürburgring lap time: Estimated 15 seconds faster

What Makes the CS Special for Enthusiasts

Questions Driving Enthusiasts Ask:

Q: Will I actually notice the difference on public roads? A: Absolutely. The CS feels more eager to change direction, stops shorter when you need it to, and responds more quickly to steering inputs. Even at legal speeds, the difference is obvious.

Q: Is it too harsh for daily driving? A: It’s firm but not punishing. The suspension is sophisticated enough to handle rough roads without beating you up. However, it’s definitely sportier than the standard M5.

Q: What about the engine sound? A: The CS has a more aggressive exhaust note. BMW tuned it specifically to sound more intense, and it works. The car sounds angry even at idle.

Limited Production and Exclusivity

BMW only made the M5 CS for about 12 months, making it one of the rarest M5 variants ever. Here’s why that matters:

Production Numbers:

• Total CS models built: Approximately 1,000-1,500 worldwide
• US allocation: Roughly 300-400 cars
• Hand-built at BMW’s M facility in Germany
• Each car takes longer to build than a regular M5

What Limited Production Means:

• You probably won’t see another one at Cars & Coffee
• Potential for appreciation in value over time
• Bragging rights among BMW enthusiasts
• More personal attention from BMW during the build process

Engine and Performance Deep Dive

The Heart of the Beast: The CS uses BMW’s S63 twin-turbo V8, but with several important upgrades:

Engine Modifications:

• Increased boost pressure from turbos
• Revised engine mapping for quicker response
• Improved cooling system with additional radiators
• Higher-flow fuel injectors
• Less restrictive intake system

Power Delivery Characteristics:

• Peak power: 635 hp at 6,000 rpm
• Peak torque: 553 lb-ft from 1,800-5,950 rpm
• Redline: 7,200 rpm (higher than regular M5)
• Power builds more linearly than the hybrid M5
• Throttle response feels more immediate

Transmission Tuning:

• 8-speed M Steptronic with Drivelogic
• Quicker shift speeds in Sport+ mode
• Rev-matching on downshifts
• Launch control optimized for the CS’s weight
• Manual mode holds gears to redline

Interior Design: Function Follows Form

Interior Comfort: Luxury vs Performance

Both cars offer amazing interiors, but they focus on different things.

M5 Competition: First-Class Comfort

The 2025 M5 Competition feels like a luxury hotel on wheels. You get premium leather everywhere, heated and cooled seats, and a sound system that’ll make your favorite songs sound brand new. The back seats are roomy enough for adults, making it perfect for family duties.

The tech is impressive too. The curved displays look futuristic, and you can control almost everything with voice commands. It’s the kind of car where you could drive cross-country and arrive feeling refreshed.

Competition Interior Features:

• Extended Merino leather upholstery
• 4-zone automatic climate control
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated rear seats (with Executive Package)
• Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System
• Ambient lighting with multiple color options
• Power rear sunshades
• Wireless phone charging pad

Passenger Space and Comfort:

• Front seats: Plenty of room for drivers up to 6’6″
• Rear seats: Comfortable for adults up to 6’2″
• Five-passenger seating configuration
• 18.7 cubic feet of trunk space
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Multiple storage compartments throughout

M5 CS: Built for Drivers

The M5 CS takes a different approach. The seats are designed to hold you tight during spirited driving, and you sit lower for a more race car feel. BMW even removed the center armrest to save weight (though they covered the hole with nice leather).

You only get four seats instead of five, and the back seats are more like racing buckets. If you regularly carry passengers, this might be a dealbreaker. But if you’re usually driving solo or with one passenger, the CS creates a more intimate, focused environment.

CS Interior Highlights:

The Famous Carbon Bucket Seats:

• M Carbon seats with aggressive bolstering
• Manual adjustment to save weight and complexity
• Lower seating position than regular M5 seats
• Alcantara upholstery for better grip during spirited driving
• Embossed Nurburgring outline in the headrest perforations
• Each seat saves about 23 pounds vs regular M5 seats

Driver-Focused Details:

• Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with red center stripe
• Carbon fiber shift paddles (larger than standard)
• Red contrast stitching throughout
• M5 CS badges on dashboard and door sills
• Deleted center armrest for weight savings
• Carbon fiber interior trim pieces

Rear Seat Reality: The CS rear seats are designed more for occasional use:

• Two individual bucket-style seats
• No center seating position or seatbelt
• Limited legroom compared to regular M5
• More supportive than regular seats during cornering
• Still usable for adults on shorter trips

Technology Differences

Competition Tech Advantages:

• Latest iDrive 8.5 system
• 31-inch rear entertainment screen (available)
• Full gesture controls
• More driver assistance features
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

CS Tech Philosophy:

• Focus on driving-related displays
• Simpler interface with fewer distractions
• Performance-oriented gauge cluster
• Track-focused data logging
• Less emphasis on passenger entertainment

Which Interior Works for You?

Choose the Competition Interior If:

• You frequently carry rear passengers
• You want the latest technology features
• Comfort is more important than sportiness
• You prefer power-adjustable everything
• You take long road trips regularly

Choose the CS Interior If:

• You primarily drive alone or with one passenger
• You love the feeling of sitting in a race car
• You want something truly unique and special
• Weight savings matter more than convenience
• You appreciate hand-crafted details and exclusivity

Sound System Comparison

M5 Competition Audio:

• Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound
• 16 speakers with 655 watts
• Crystal clear highs and deep bass
• Great for music lovers and audiophiles

M5 CS Audio:

• Standard Harman Kardon system
• 16 speakers but less powerful amplifier
• Still very good, but not as refined
• BMW prioritized weight savings over ultimate audio quality

Climate and Comfort Features

Competition Comfort Edge:

• Ventilated front seats for hot weather
• Heated steering wheel
• Four-zone climate control
• Massaging front seats (available)
• More sound deadening for quieter cabin

CS Comfort Trade-offs:

• Less sound deadening means more road noise
• Firmer seats might not suit everyone
• Sportier suspension affects ride comfort
• Less insulation means you hear more engine sound (which some love)

The choice between these interiors really comes down to your priorities. The Competition coddles you in luxury, while the CS connects you to the driving experience. Both are beautifully built, but they serve different masters.

Real-World Performance: Street vs Track

Here’s where the rubber meets the road (literally).

Daily Driving Champions

For everyday use, the BMW M5 Competition wins hands down. The hybrid system lets you cruise silently through neighborhoods, and the extra weight actually makes highway driving smoother. Plus, you can still use all five seats when needed.

Road testers call it “the quickest M5 ever and also the comfiest M5 ever.” That’s exactly what most buyers want – a car that can do everything well.

Weekend Warrior Performance

But when the road gets twisty, the M5 CS shows its true colors. It stops from 62 mph in 99 feet compared to the Competition’s 104 feet. On a racetrack, the CS consistently posts faster lap times.

Professional drivers love how the CS handles. One reviewer said you can “dive through corners and hit the exit perfectly in one smooth motion.” That’s the kind of confidence that makes driving addictive.

Money Talk: What You’re Really Paying For

Let’s be honest about costs because these aren’t cheap cars.

M5 Competition Value

The 2025 M5 starts around $123,000. That might sound steep, but compare it to rivals like the Audi RS6 (about $126,000) or Porsche Panamera GTS ($125,600), and the BMW looks reasonable. You’re getting more power and advanced hybrid tech for similar money.

The hybrid system also future-proofs your investment. As cities ban gas cars from downtown areas, you’ll still be able to drive anywhere on electric power.

M5 CS Investment Potential

The M5 CS originally cost about $140,000 – roughly $38,000 more than the regular Competition. Here’s the thing though: BMW only made the CS for about 12 months, and automotive magazines voted it Car of the Year.

Limited production plus rave reviews usually equals strong resale values. If you can find a good CS now, it might actually appreciate over time, especially as the market moves toward hybrids and electric cars.

Ownership Reality Check

Beyond the fun stuff, let’s talk about living with these cars day-to-day.

Fuel Economy (Or Lack Thereof)

The hybrid M5 gets about 12 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. That’s actually worse than the old gas-only M5, thanks to all that extra weight. Drive it hard, and you might see single-digit fuel economy.

The M5 CS isn’t much better since it’s built for performance, not efficiency. Both cars require premium gas, so budget accordingly.

Maintenance Considerations

The BMW M5 Competition’s hybrid system means more complexity. More parts that could potentially break, but BMW’s warranty covers you for the first few years. The good news is that electric motors need almost no maintenance.

The M5 CS keeps things simpler with its traditional V8 setup. The carbon fiber parts need special care if damaged, but the engine itself is proven reliable.

Expert Reviews: What the Pros Say

Automotive journalists have spent serious time with both cars, and their opinions are telling.

Competition Concerns

Some reviewers worry the new M5 has lost its soul. One called it “not very M5-like” because of all the weight and complexity. Another said it feels more like “a very fast electric car than a traditional M5.”

The concern is real – when you add 1,000 pounds to a sports sedan, it changes everything about how it drives.

CS Praise

Meanwhile, reviewers can’t stop gushing about the M5 CS. Words like “bewitching,” “captivating,” and “the M5 perfected” show up in almost every review.

The consensus is clear: if you want the purest M5 experience possible, the CS delivers it in spades.

Making Your Choice: Competition or CS?

So which one should you choose? It depends on what kind of driver you are.

Choose the M5 Competition If You Want

• A car that works for everything from grocery runs to track days
• The latest technology and hybrid efficiency
• Room for five people when needed
• Future-proof features for changing regulations
• The newest BMW tech and safety features

The Competition makes sense if you need one car to do everything. It’s incredibly capable and offers the most modern BMW experience.

Choose the M5 CS If You Want

• The ultimate driving experience above all else
• Something rare that few other people will have
• Track-day capability right out of the box
• A car that might become a collectible
• Pure, unfiltered performance

The CS appeals to driving purists who want something special. If you have another car for daily duties, the CS offers an experience few modern cars can match.

The Bottom Line

Both the BMW M5 Competition and M5 CS represent incredible engineering achievements, but they serve different masters. The Competition embraces the future with hybrid tech while staying practical for daily use. The CS focuses purely on driving joy and performance.

For most buyers, the 2025 BMW M5 Competition makes more sense. It’s incredibly fast, surprisingly efficient for what it is, and works as your only car. But if you’re a serious driving enthusiast who values experience over practicality, the M5 CS offers something truly special.

The luxury performance sedan market keeps evolving, but both these BMWs prove that whether through high-tech innovation or pure engineering focus, the M5 legacy continues strong. Either way, you’ll own one of the best super sedans ever built.

Ready to experience these amazing machines for yourself? Contact Braman BMW of West Palm Beach today to schedule a test drive and discover which M5 matches your driving style perfectly.