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The BMW M Sport package can be outfitted on almost any BMW model. It is a much more cost-effective way to add some athletic flare and improve your driving dynamics without buying a BMW M Performance model or a BMW M Series model (yes, they are all different).
We must tip our cap to BMW for offering practically endless
trim levels, options, and packages
. While you’ll pay a pretty penny in upfront costs and long-term car insurance
rates, these options allow you to craft the perfect car based on your preferences for luxury and performance.That said, it's easy to get BMW’s M Sport package, M Performance models, and M Series models mixed up—so we’re here to clear the air! Here’s everything you need to know about the BMW M Sport package to decide if it's the right choice for you!
What is the BMW M Sport package?
The M Sport package is the lowest tier of BMW’s motorsport customization options.
In case you hadn’t figured it out yet, the “M” stands for motorsport in BMW’s terminology and classification. The M sport package is the only tier in the motorsport division that is available as an add-on package to various models (e.g., 550i w/ M sport package). The other two tiers are available in the form of model variations—the M Performance models (e.g., M550i) and the M Series models (e.g., M5).
Here are some examples of each with the BMW 5-Series:
So now that we’ve cleared the air on the confusing labels within the motorsport division, let’s take a look at what’s all included with the BMW M Sport package.
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The exact features will vary across BMW models, but here are some general perks of adding the M Sport package:
- “M” emblems on interior and exterior
- Aerodynamic body styling
- More detail in BMW’s iconic front grille
- Bigger and wider tires
- Lower and stiffer suspension
- Sport steering
- Larger fuel tank
- Full-leather sport seats
- Colored brake calipers
- Exclusive colors, accents, and trims
- And potentially more, depending on the BMW model
What it does
The M Sport package is designed to make your BMW model look and feel like the M Performance and M Series models without the steep price increase. However, the price discrepancy comes down to the fact that there is no engine upgrade in the M Sport package.
So you technically won’t be able to go any faster with the M Sport Package. Still, you will notice a drastic difference in the driving dynamics, emulating the “feel” of the other motorsport tiers. Here are the two main features we can thank for that:
- Lower and stiffer suspension: Gives greater driver control by limiting leans into corners and allowing for sharp turns. However, there is a comfort trade-off as this suspension system does not mute bumps in the road as effectively.
- Bigger and wider tires: Provides your BMW with better grip and traction, which is important for challenging driving conditions.
And that’s just addressing the performance-related perks. The BMW M Sport package also has plenty of athletic features that spruce up the stock model to bring it on par with the other motorsport tiers.
However, BMW buyers who value luxury design features over a sporty aesthetic may prefer the Executive or Luxury Seating packages—or by shopping the various trim levels for the given BMW model.
How much is a BMW M Sport package?
The M Sport package can be added to just about any BMW model for roughly $3,000 to $5,000. Each model will have different features included in its M Sport package, so that’s why there is a price range.
BMW M Sport package model pricing
Here is an example of the pricing breakdown for the 2023 BMW 5-Series across different tiers of BMW’s motorsport division:
- BMW 530i: $56,995
- BMW 530i w/ M Sport package: $59,995
- BMW M550i: $82,495
- BMW M5: $109,895
MORE: Are BMWs expensive to maintain?
Is the M Sport package worth it?
If you’re looking for an affordable way to add some extra athleticism to your BMW, then the M Sport package is absolutely worth it. The improved driving dynamics and sleeker looks will take your experience to a whole new level.
However, if you’ve got a need for speed, you’ll want to open the wallet a little further and splurge on an M Performance or M Series model. This is the only way to get an upgraded engine with your motorsport designation.
So let’s use the 2023 BMW 5-Series as an example again to view the upgrades that come with the other two motorsport tiers.
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversBMW M Sport package vs. BMW M Performance models
For reference, the 2023 BMW 5-Series begins with the 530i, which has a standard 248-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that can hit sixty miles per hour in about six seconds.
Nothing changes about the engine when you add the M Sports package, but your 530i will now share the same athletic look and feel as the M550i.
But when you commit to spending the extra $25,000 for the M Performance model M550i, you get the following speed-boosting performance upgrades:
- 523-hp 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V-8
- Sub-four-second zero-to-sixty time
- Additional driving modes
- Standard electronically-controlled locking rear differential
- And more
BMW M Sport package vs. BMW M Series models
The BMW M Series models are out-of-this-world amazing, but the price tag may be more appropriately described as out of this universe. The 2023 BMW M5 starts at a whopping $109,895, which is almost double the price of a standard model with the M Sport package.
But if we are talking in multiples, double the price isn’t bad when you get triple the power! The 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine can produce a face-melting 600 horsepower, which drops the zero-to-sixty time down to about three seconds.
Again, the driving dynamics and athletic style of the M Sport Package and the M Series will share a lot in common, but the extra power you get with the M Series is undeniably tempting.
MORE: BMW buying guide
The bottom line
The BMW M Sport Package is the most affordable way to get the exclusive motorsport division emblem on your car. On top of street-cred, you also get tuned-up driving dynamics and sweet athletic features. So for some, this is one heck of a deal!
But the BMW M Sport package isn’t for everyone. While the stiffer suspension improves your control, it detracts from your ride's comfort—a non-negotiable for some luxury-minded BMW owners. So if you prefer luxury, you may be better off customizing your BMW with other packages centered around class and comfort.
“Because I have a luxury car, I was more interested in finding better coverage than the exact price.Jerryhelped me upgrade my policy, and when my record is cleared next year, I will be using Jerry again to choose an even cheaper plan!” —Paige W.
Make auto loan refinancing easy with PriceProtect™
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers
By Drew Waterstreet
Expert Insurance Writer
Reviewed by Pat Roache.
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