Exactly a week ago, we got the refreshed 5 Series. And now, the range has been further extended with the introduction of the new M5 Competition. There’s no way of softening the blow, so here you go – the price is Rs 1.62 crore. Like the one we had on sale before, the refreshed one lands on our shores as a CBU (Completely Built Unit). That route draws the highest import duties.

Propulsion comes courtesy of a 4.4-litre, twin-turbocharged V8, 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. With 617bhp/750Nm on tap, the BMW M5 Competition can hit 100kmph from a standstill in 3.3 seconds, clock 200kmph in 10.8 seconds and reach an electronically-governed top speed of 250kmph without breaking a sweat. That last figure can be upped to 305kmph with the optional M Driver’s Package. Considering that the sedan weighs nearly 2 tonnes, all those performance numbers a beyond impressive. And yes, there’s also an option to make the M5 Competition a rear-wheel-drive car for those who like sideways action.

Compared to the standard 5 Series, the M5 Competition boasts more aggressive-looking front and rear bumpers, blacked-out elements including the roof and grille and M-specific twin tailpipes. In addition, the sports saloon rides on 20-inch alloys and features side gills and new variable damper controls for front and rear suspension. BMW has even stiffened the springs for the engine mount. That, and the fact there’s a ‘Track’ driving mode, further explains what the M5 Competition can really deliver.

Like the exterior, the interior is shamelessly aggressive. The features include M Sports seats in Merino leather upholstery, M Sports multifunction steering wheel and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. There’s also a Harman Kardon sound system, memory function for the powered seats, BMW Digital Key, and many assistance systems. As for the theme, that’s, of course, is all black.

The BMW M5 Competition falls in the same space as the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe and the Audi RS 7 Sportback. Out of the three, which one do you fancy the most?