You would think a car with the BMW M5’s prestige and price tag would be equipped with everything. Not so. The 2006 BMW M5 has several additional options buyers can choose to load up their M5. Some of this stuff strikes us as nickel-and-diming:

• M Series Multi-function Sport Seats: These seats include active side bolsters that automatically inflate to hold occupants in place during tight cornering as well as active head restraints pivot forward in a severe rear collision to help prevent whiplash prevention. Multiple fans in the seat move air through the perforated leather to keep occupants cool and perspiration free.
• Comfort Access: This feature allows the driver to carry a remote in a pocket or purse and access or lock the vehicle by simply touching the door handle. Starting the car is just as easy; press the start button and you’re off without having to insert the key in the ignition.
• Soft Close Doors: Close any door gently and an electric mechanism draws it shut.
• Full Leather and Wood trim: Just in case the standard leather and aluminum trim aren’t up to snuff.
• M Heads Up Display: A virtual color image is displayed on the windshield and allows the driver to see selected information without taking his eyes from the road.
• Sirius Satellite Radio: Sirius offers 60 original and commercial-free channels of music, plus over 40 stations featuring sports, news and entertainment.
• Split Folding Rear Seats: Includes a ski bag pass-through.
• Heated Rear Seats: BMW hasn’t ignored the less fortunate who must ride in rather than drive the M5. Outboard rear occupants get three-stage, two-zone heated seats.
• Power Rear Sunshade: Includes manual side window sunshades.
• Rear Side-impact Airbags: These are door mounted and complement the standard side curtain airbags.
• Rear Spoiler Delete: A no cost option that gets rid of apparently unnecessary hardware.