BMW M5 Prototype Spotted Testing: Glimpse into the Future of Performance

Upcoming M5 Test Vehicle Spotted
M’s Unique Design Behind Camouflage
Is M also Going Electric?

The BMW brand was spotted testing a prototype of the newly launched M5. Starting from this model, the M5 is scheduled to become electric, so there are already various reactions. The new BMW M5, based on the most recently launched 5 Series, is expected to be launched in the U.S. at the end of 2024.

It may be difficult to distinguish it from the regular 5 Series because it is covered with camouflage. Still, through the four mufflers, wheel arches, and brake rotors, we can easily identify this model as a BMW M5. The spiderweb-shaped wheel pattern is similar to the M3 and M4, making it even more convincing.

V8 Turbo Engine and PHEV
Securing Performance and Driving Range

Unlike the existing M5, each camouflage area has an Electrified Vehicle mark attached, proving it is an electrified powertrain. If we guess, the powertrain installed in the new M5 will likely be the hybrid V8 engine first introduced by XM.

The XM is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine and an electric motor integrated into an 8-speed automatic transmission. It is most likely to be installed on the M5 and is expected to produce a maximum output of 718 horsepower. Since it is a plug-in hybrid vehicle, the driving range and output are expected to be similar.

Equipped with Four Motors
Competing with High-Performance Electric Sedans?

Meanwhile, some predict the newly released M5 will be equipped with four electric motors and produce more than 1,000 horsepower. It is claimed that it may be able to compete with high-performance electric sports sedans such as the Tesla Model S Plaid and Lucid Air Sapphire and even catch up with the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT.

In addition, expectations are growing for the new i5, which has not yet been released. M Performance, a high-performance version of the i5, is called M60 and is said to boast an output of 590 horsepower. Some overseas media speculated that the new BMW i5 may also develop a high-performance version equipped with four motors and producing 1,000 horsepower.

Wagon Production Planned
When Will It Be Released in South Korea?

The new M5 will also be launched in touring wagon form. Production of the sedan model is scheduled to begin in Germany in July 2024 and the Touring model in November 2024, so they are expected to be officially unveiled in South Korea shortly.