The next generation BMW M5 is in full test mode at the moment preparing for an unveil in late 2017 and a market launch in early 2018. Just like its competition, the new F90 M5 will get a power bump. Mercedes-Benz has just introduced the E63, which is offered in two performance levels with either 571 hp (E63) or 612 hp (E63 S). Audi’s RS6 is also scheduled for 2018 and will produce around 650 hp.
The F90 M5 will be powered by an updated version of the V8 TwinTurbo which has been optimized to deliver maximum power at a wider rpm range, yet the power won’t exceed by much the 600 hp mark. Sources say a 620 hp figure is definitely achievable, but won’t confirm the final power output. A premiere also will be the ability of the driver to change from all-wheel drive to rear wheel drive at the push of a button. Depending on the driving mode, the driver can decide for himself whether he wants to use the power of the V8 TwinTurbo on all four wheels or would rather feel the full power on the rear axle.
The option of rear-wheel drive at the push of a button is designed to take the wind out of the sails that make the new BMW M5 F90 less exciting than its predecessor, due to its standard all-wheel drive. In many situations, however, the four driven wheels will offer advantages, not least in terms of acceleration. On dry asphalt, a maximum of 3.5 seconds will pass before the 62 mph mark is reached. Apart from this, the all-wheel drive naturally offers great traction advantages on slippery ground, which is significantly important to customers in the alpine regions and the North American Snow Belt.
The top model of the new G30 5 Series not only benefits from all lightweight construction measures of the large series, but also adds additional lightweight elements, such as the standard carbon roof. On the bottom line, the M5 is supposed to weigh a few kilograms less than its predecessor, despite the more complex drivetrain with all-wheel drive and more extensive series equipment.
Later variants – such as the BMW M5 CS – will continue to turn the power screw and underpin the special BMW M5 as a sports car in the business dress.
