The Upcoming M5 from BMW Conceals More Than Simply a Neue Klasse Appearance | Carscoops

The Upcoming M5 from BMW Conceals More Than Simply a Neue Klasse Appearance | Carscoops

      A new CS variant may join both the sedan and wagon offerings, potentially cutting down on weight but not addressing the M5's heft issue.

       14 hours ago

      

      

      

      

      

      

       by John Halas

      

      BMW’s refreshed M5 showcases a more defined kidney grille and headlights inspired by the Neue Klasse design.

      Insiders suggest a new performance-oriented variant may be added to both the sedan and Touring lineup.

      Production of the G90 and G99 is anticipated to take place from March 2027 until early 2031.

      BMW has been actively testing prototypes for its next-generation models, with the refreshed M5 recently observed racing around the Nurburgring. This prototype appears mostly consistent with previous sightings, as part of the brand’s mid-cycle refresh, known internally as LCI (Life Cycle Impulse).

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      The most prominent change is at the front, where the current model's bulky appearance has been substituted with a sleeker, more sophisticated version of BMW's traditional kidney grilles, influenced by the Neue Klasse design language. The updated headlights enhance this look, giving the M5 a sharper, more polished appearance.

      At the rear, everything is under heavy camouflage, but major alterations are not expected—most likely just updated taillight designs that align with the Neue Klasse theme, along with minor adjustments to the bumper. New wheel options will probably be among the most noticeable exterior updates.

      New Production Schedule and Technical Details Emerge

      Baldauf / Carscoops

      Since the M5's last testing appearance, additional information has surfaced, shared by a BMW insider on Bimmerpost. This source, known for reliable insights, asserts that production for the refreshed G90 M5 sedan and the G99 M5 Touring will commence in March 2027, coinciding with BMW’s standard three-year refresh cycle, with both models expected to be produced until the first quarter of 2031.

      An intriguing detail revealed is that BMW may incorporate a front passenger display in the LCI update, following the lead of Audi and Porsche. While it may not be the most exciting addition, the upside is that it will likely be available as an optional feature rather than standard.

      The interior will see its most significant change with the introduction of BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive and Operating System X. The previous rotary controller is being replaced by a wide-screen layout termed ‘Panoramic Vision,’ stretching across the dashboard. The centerpiece will be a display extending from pillar to pillar, central to the redesigned interface.

      More Variants Possibly Coming? A CS Variant?

      The same insider also indicates that BMW intends to enhance the M5 lineup by adding a new variant, though specific details are yet to be revealed. The most probable candidate is a Competition Sport (CS) model, similar to what BMW currently offers with its M3, M4, and recently the M2. A CS variant could reduce some weight and improve performance, but it won’t entirely resolve the M5’s notable heft issue.

      For context, the previous generation F90 M5 CS lost around 230 lbs (104 kg) compared to the standard version, which was already heavy at 4,370 lbs (1,982 kg). The current G90 weighs in at a hefty 5,390 lbs (2,445 kg), over a thousand pounds more. Hence, while a CS may enhance agility a little, it won't make the car feel significantly lighter.

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      The facelifted BMW M5 sedan next to the current model (Baldauf / Carscoops)

      If BMW decides to introduce a CS variant for both the sedan and Touring models, it would likely feature an increase in power. The existing plug-in hybrid setup includes a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, a 14.8 kWh battery, and an eight-speed automatic transmission that integrates an electric motor, yielding a total of 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft (999 Nm) of torque, allowing the all-wheel drive vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in just 3.4 seconds.

      Although these specifications may not change for the standard model, a CS variant could potentially push performance closer to the 738 horsepower seen in the XM Red Label. This would likely come along with chassis modifications designed to enhance the driving experience. There’s always a chance that BMW has something entirely different planned, but for the moment, it remains speculation.

      Baldauf / Carscoops

The Upcoming M5 from BMW Conceals More Than Simply a Neue Klasse Appearance | Carscoops The Upcoming M5 from BMW Conceals More Than Simply a Neue Klasse Appearance | Carscoops

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The Upcoming M5 from BMW Conceals More Than Simply a Neue Klasse Appearance | Carscoops

A new CS variant might be added to both the sedan and wagon lineup, which would decrease weight but not address the M5's heaviness issue.