- BMW is already testing the redesigned M5 at the Nürburgring.
- This prototype had its front end completely reworked eliminating the large kidney grille.
- Bigger changes are planned for the interior.
It’s not even been two years since BMW introduced the M5. Even though this electrified super sedan is still relatively new, especially considering that deliveries will only start at the end of 2024, the latest version has already been tested. Spy footage taken this week at the Nürburgring shows several prototypes in full swing.
While the full-body camouflage might suggest that BMW is completely redesigning its AMG E63 fighter, that’s not going to happen. This will still be a mid-cycle facelift compared to the next-gen model, despite featuring a completely new face. It’s true, this test car hides a new front end that already looks familiar.
The big kidneys are gone, making way for a new grille that seems to blend seamlessly with the headlights. Where have we seen that before? In the new electric i3 sedan, which also previews the next-generation 3 Series coming later this year. Being an M5, it adopts a much more aggressive front bumper, featuring a multitude of air intakes.
If you know BMW and have a keen eye for detail, this prototype is missing an important design feature. Gone are the M-specific side mirror caps, but these are no ordinary 5 Series mirrors either. They appear to be borrowed from the new i3, further suggesting that even the facelifted model will adopt the Neue Klasse design language.
At the rear, the taillights appear slimmer compared to the current M5. However, this may just be a placeholder until the next prototype is launched with the final taillights. Even so, the shape and size will probably not change because it requires different body panels. Instead, the production-ready taillights are expected to feature sleeker graphics derived from the new i3.
It’s still a plug-in hybrid. The flap covering the charging port is in its usual place on the front fender. As if that wasn’t clear enough, yellow stickers are mandatory for electric vehicle testing on the Nordschleife. In the event of an accident, his role was to notify safety officials that the prototype was equipped with a high-voltage electrical system.
The M5’s dashboard will be very different, featuring a large central touchscreen complemented by a full-width windshield projection that stretches from pillar to pillar. There are also rumors of an optional passenger screen, which neither the iX3 nor the i3 currently offer. As with the two Neue Klasse EVs, BMW is expected to do away with more traditional controls by shifting functions to the touchscreen.
To some extent, the i3’s dashboard and switchgear will carry over to the next 3 Series later this year, before the larger 5 Series adopts a so-called minimalist look in 2027. The updated M5 is also expected to break cover before the end of next year, hopefully joined from day one by the more practical Touring.
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Source: BMW
Motorcycle Pickup1: Never before in history has the M5 performance sedan received such a radical update within the same generation. Between the new face and the overhauled dashboard, it will give the impression of a next generation model.
For those who would prefer to have a new M sedan without a plug-in hybrid, one is on the way. BMW insiders claim the next M3 with an inline-six engine will be released in 2028, but will also likely feature some form of electrification. Rather than going with a PHEV, it will reportedly adopt a mild hybrid setup, which will help limit the weight penalty.
However, traditionalists might want to buy an M3 today if they want the classic recipe with rear-wheel drive and a manual gearbox. The next one can only use AWD and automatic, like its older brother the M5.
Source:
Jeroen Car Observer / YouTube
