BMW Concept M5

BMW has revealed the 2012 M5 - albeit in ‘concept’ form - ahead of its debut at this month’s Shanghai motor show.

BMW Concept M5 (2011) Front

Performance figures have yet to be released, although BMW has confirmed that the V10 engine of the previous generation E60 M5 has been ditched in favour of a twin-turbo V8 for the new F10 model.

This is expected to be an adapted version of the 4.4 litre unit already seen in the X5 M and X6 M, and BMW is promising increased power combined with a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.

Drive to the rear wheels will be via a seven-speed M double-clutch transmission, while a specially calibrated active differential has been engineered to minimise wheel spin and maximise traction.

BMW Concept M5 (2011) Rear SideBMW Concept M5 (2011) Side
BMW Concept M5 (2011) RearBMW Concept M5 (2011) Front Side

Visually, all of the usual M5 styling cues are present. These include subtly widened wheel arches housing bespoke 20” forged alloy wheels, neat front wing gills and reworked front and rear aprons that are designed to aid both cooling and aerodynamics.

The interior remains a mystery for now though. The blacked-out glass of the concept suggests that it’s probably still work in progress.

Related post:
Alpina B5 UK sales start

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