Canada

They only add the “M” to the MPA (M Performance Automobile) on the more performance version, it is never added to a base model. In the 5 series range, there is a 530, an M550, and the M5.

An MPA vehicle, like the M550, is NOT an M car.

The 530 has a 2.0L turbo 4, the M550 has a twin turbo 4.4L V8, the M5 has a highly tuned version of the twin turbo 4.4L V8 plus an electric motor that adds another 194 hp.

The “M Sport Package” when added to any car is just a trim package. Upgraded seats and steering wheel, black window trim etc. It does not change the designation of the vehicle, or the performance in any way, except maybe a better steering rack, and bigger brakes. Although the M Sport Package brakes are still smaller than the brakes on the MPA version.

Ya, it’s kinda a confusing mess.