BMW M5 spied

Photos: Automedia

09th March 2010

Meet the car that's got the Mercedes E63 AMG in its sights! This prototype is the latest generation BMW M5 and it's set to become the first in a long line of performance 5-Series' to be powered by a turbocharged engine.

Instead of the high-revving V10 found in its predecessors, the newcomer will borrow the twin-turbo, 4.4-litre V8 used in the X5 and X6 M cars. Power in those models is set at 550bhp but expect the M division to bring that number up to around 570bhp in the M5.

Mated to the new unit will be a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, but a more traditional six-speed manual 'box may also be available.

The new set-up is part of a range of tweaks that BMW are putting in place to cut CO2 emissions in the new model. Much like the recently announced M3, the super-saloon will also be fitted with a stop/start system that cuts emissions by around 25g/km of CO2.

But don't think that the M5 is going soft. Performance will still be blistering, with 60mph coming in around 4.5 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph.

The newcomer will still look the part too. A subtle body-kit incorporates huge air in-takes at the front, whilst at the back a set of four exhausts signals its performance intentions.

Expect the new M5 to be officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October this year. Sales will start early in 2011.

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