While the vast majority is still waiting on the premiere of the new 5 Series, BMW is intensively preparing the next-generation M5 for its market launch. The power sedan promises in its sixth version a significant performance boost while also appealing to a new set of customers who live in North America and alpine area, and have been reluctant to drive a rear-wheel drive in the winter. To finally reach this audience, the new G90 BMW M5 has been converted – thanks to hardware and software especially – to an optional sport-tuned four-wheel drive.
Current spy photos from the BMW M Test Center Nürburg show highly camouflaged prototypes which are now being tested on the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Just like the G30 5 Series, the F90 M5 has received the harsh treatment of weight loss, thanks to the inclusion of exotic materials such as high strength steels or carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). The current M5 F10 was already close to two tons weight, so the weight savings in this new generation are crucial for the driving dynamics of the new M5. According to our sources, the weight scale will indicate around 100 kilograms less than the current F10 M5.
The new 2018 BMW M5 will be powered by the same 4.4 liter V8 TwinTurbo used by the current M5. However, BMW engineers have worked hard to evolve and optimize the M engine. The updated unit has been optimized to deliver maximum power at a wider rpm range, yet the power won’t exceed by much the 600 hp mark. Currently, the M5’s rivals are in the range of 550 to 605 hp.
BMW is expected to give us a preview of the M5 sometimes in early 2017.
[Photos: Bimmertoday]
