This story contains independent illustrations that are neither related to nor endorsed by BMW
Every generation of the BMW M5 is considered a benchmark among performance sedans, so the transition of the nameplate to the electrified era is a big deal for the Bavarian automaker. The performance flagship of the G60 5-Series is expected to arrive in 2024 with an immensely powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain and the return of the estate bodystyle next to the traditional sedan.
Our spy photographers have caught prototypes of the next-gen M5 testing and fine-tuning prior to its debut. The models were spotted inside and outside of the track, with various levels of camouflage. Using the power of photo editing software, we tried to uncover the secrets of the model with our exclusive rendering based on our earlier scoop stories.
More: How Does The 2024 BMW 5-Series G60 Compare To Its G30 Predecessor?
Rendering by Thanos Pappas for CarScoops
Surprisingly, the new M5 appears to be cleaner and more subtle compared to the “in-you-face” looks of the standard G60 5-Series and the admittedly busy M Performance bumpers. At the front, we expect a large and complex lower bumper intake flanked by two smaller inlets on the sides, and a slightly revised grille with the traditional M5 emblem. Furthermore, there is a chance that BMW designers will tweak the bonnet for a sportier stance, and make small changes to the outline of the headlights as they did in the entry-level M2.
The profile of the M5 will be distinguished by the unique alloy wheels hiding larger brakes behind them, bulkier fenders covering the wider tracks, a charging port, and possibly a pair of side gills as in other full-blown BMW M models. At the back, spy shots have revealed the traditional quad tailpipes, likely combined with a prominent diffuser and a lip spoiler.
The interior of the BMW 5-Series and i5 is a sign of things to come for the M5
Inside, the Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen will be shared with the lesser 5-Series and i5 (see the gallery above). The interior of the M5 will benefit from a number of sporty touches like heavier-bolstered seats, aluminum pedals, dark headliner, illuminated scuff plates etc., alongside more BMW M emblems and carbon-fiber bits.
The Most Powerful M5 Ever Thanks To Electrification
The outgoing limited-production BMW M5 CS is the most powerful M5 variant ever made, with 627 hp (468 kW / 636 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque courtesy of the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8. However, the CS will soon lose this title by a huge margin. The G60 BMW M5 will reportedly produce as much as 790 hp (588 kW / 800 PS) and 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque, getting close to supercar territory and dropping the acceleration figures even further.
More: 5 Reasons Why The BMW M2 Could Be The Best M Car Despite Not Being A Looker
The significant increase in the output will be made possible by the addition of a single electric motor, which will likely be integrated into the 8-speed automatic gearbox. The e-motor will work together with an improved version of the twin-turbo V8, while power will be transmitted to all four wheels. The lithium-ion battery will allow a zero-emission mode, with the M5 being the second M-branded PHEV after the XM flagship SUV and surpassing the latter’s 738 hp (550 kW / 748 PS) combined output.
In order to support all that power, BMW M engineers will do their magic tricks on the longer 199.2 inches (5,060 mm) chassis. It is safe to assume that the model will inherit the latest tech in adaptive suspension, brakes, and electronics for optimum performance, handling, and comfort. After all, the M5 was always designed to be a long-distance cruiser.
A BMW M5 Touring Has Been Confirmed Too
Official teasers of a camouflaged prototype of the BMW M5 Touring
Following the enthusiastic response to the M3 Touring, BMW decided to bring back the M5 Touring as a more practical and family-friendly alternative to the performance sedan. While the regular 5-Series Touring it will be based on hasn’t appeared yet, the company published official teasers of the M-branded estate, while confirming its debut for 2024.
Notably, this will be the first M5 Touring with an electrified powertrain and all-wheel-drive, making it a direct competitor to the Audi RS6 which will soon get a “more extreme” variant. Add the upcoming plug-in hybrid Mercedes-AMG E 63 E-Performance into the mix and you have yourself a fierce battle between the Germans. Hopefully, BMW will bring the M5 Touring to North America this time, as only the sedan variants of the previous generations crossed the Atlantic.
Are your hyped up about the next generation of the BMW M5? We expect the performance sedan and estate to arrive by mid-2024, going on sale approximately one year after the regular 5-Series / i5 lineup.
