New Models
New Models

2012 BMW M5 previewed in Shanghai Auto Concept M5

The BMW Concept M5 has been revealed ahead of its official unveiling at Auto Shanghai 2011. The Concept M5 foreshadows the launch of the production M5, which will break cover towards the end of this year.


Speculation about the new M5’s transmission has been laid to rest, with BMW confirming the vehicle will be equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that has been specially tuned to suit the new V8.

BMW is still to reveal the engine and performance data, although we know that the F10 M5 will be powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 with more power and torque than the X5 M and X6 M (408kW/680Nm).

While BMW says power will step up significantly, even more impressive is its promise that efficiency will increase by more than 25 percent.

The previous-generation E60 M5’s 5.0-litre V10 engine skolled 14.4 litres/100km of fuel on the combined cycle and emitted 344g/km CO2. A 25 percent reduction would lead to quite remarkable figures of 10.8 litres/100km combined and CO2 emissions of 258g/km.

BMW describes the Concept M5 as a “near-series concept car”, meaning we shouldn’t expect too many changes in the production version.

The exterior is all about athletic design and enhancing aerodynamics. Examples include the large front air intakes, rear apron diffuser and discreet bootlip spoiler. Dual round Xenon headlights glow at the front, while 20-inch black alloy wheels sit flush with the body – although they may make way for more traditional silver wheels in production form.

BMW says the unique suspension and brakes have been tuned extensively on the North Loop of the Nurburgring, and the Active M Differential has been designed to offer “the highest level of vehicle stability and dynamics during acceleration out of the bends even under the most demanding conditions”.

The production version of the 2012 BMW M5 will be revealed in Europe later this year, with more details certain to trickle out in the meantime.

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