Unveiled only a few months back (August 2017), the new M5 is arguably the most aggressive and technologically advance midsize sedan BMW has built to date. But this doesn't mean it can't be improved. And BMW used the 2017 SEMA Show in Las Vegas to showcase a range of M Performance parts that enhance the M5 inside and out, as well as under the skin. It may seem a bit ridiculous to showcase performance- and visual-enhancing parts only a couple of months into an already awesome sedan's life, but this is how the market works nowadays. While some will be more than happy to take a stock M5 home, others will pay for a few extras and a slightly customized appearance.

The new BMW M Performance parts for the still-fresh M5 are mostly about aerodynamics and weight saving on the outside. Both are achieved through extensive use of carbon-fiber, a lightweight composite that's more than welcomed on any BMW wearing the M badge. And with the German firm usually using carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) on its cars, this is a breath of fresh air for carbon enthusiasts. The interior also received its fair share of upgrades, while the chassis and the exhaust system have been modified to better suit the enhanced aerodynamics of the sedan. But more on that in the review below.

Continue reading to learn more about the BMW M5 with M Performance Parts.

What makes the BMW M5 with M Performance Parts special

On the outside, the already aggressive stance of the M5 is further enhanced by the M Performance aerodynamics package, which includes a range of handcrafted, carbon-fiber parts. Up front, this package adds only bumper side vent surrounds, but the aero feature is complemented by carbon-fiber kidney grilles. The latter is a cool touch in terms of looks. Moving over to the sides, we can see carbon-fiber side sill extensions, also part of the aero package, and carbon mirror caps, a separate option.

Around back, the M Performance bundle includes a carbon-fiber rear spoiler (or the spoiler Pro upgrade) and a carbon-fiber rear diffuser. All told, these options not only optimize the sedan's aerodynamics, but also reduce curb weight and enhance looks. Finally, you can also opt for the stripe package, which adorns the lower front bumper and lower doors in the traditional blue, purple, and red colors of the M division.

Plenty of interesting features to talk about inside the cabin too, starting with the M Performance steering wheel with distinctive geometry, pronounced Alcantara grip area, and carbon-fiber cover. The package also features new carbon-fiber shift paddles and a carbon shift lever cover. The motorsport-inspired looks are rounded off by M Performance floor mats.

Moving over to what's not immediately noticeable, BMW developed the M Performance Drive Analyzer, which is described as an "innovative tool for recording and evaluating all important vehicle dynamics data." The system analyzes and determines a range of performance factors such as engine data, speed and peak values, engaged gear, use of accelerator pedal and brakes, and lateral acceleration, working pretty much like a telemetry device. When recorded, the results can be directly shown on the smartphone as videos or graphic representations via the M Performance Drive Analyzer App, which is available free of charge to BMW customers. Those who wish to capture their performance on film can opt for the Trackfix action camera holder, which can be mounted in the threaded bush of the towing lug either at the front or rear end of the vehicle. This way you can make your own Nurburgring record attempt videos.

M Performance unveiled under-the-skin upgrades too, starting with a coilover suspension with even sportier setup, which provides a more direct connection of the chassis to the road. The red coil springs. There's also carbon-ceramic brakes with motorsports-derived pads, as well as an M performance sports exhaust system. The latter is available exclusively in the U.S. and Canada and features a titanium rear muffler, carbon-fiber tailpipe trim, and an optimized exhaust gas routing for enhanced engine roar. While the engine remained unchanged, BMW did introduce a new, handcrafted carbon-fiber cover.

Most of these parts will become available when the new M5 arrived in showroom in the spring of 2018, while some of them will hit the market in July.

References

BMW M5

Read our full review on the 2018 BMW M5.

Read more news on the 2017 SEMA Show.