BMW M5 F10 prototype spy pics
September 28, 2009 by Matt Brogan
Lo and behold, the next-generation BMW M5 F10 prototype spied testing at the Nürburgring has finally lost some of its heavy plastic cladding on the front end.
In its place BMW has plastered their famous psychedelic wrappings. Now we can see the overall design of the front bumper fascia, more specifically, the magnitude of the air intake pockets.
Just in case you were sceptical of its M5 intentions, giveaway signs include the four round tailpipes BMW exclusively assigns to all current and recent M cars plus the large brakes with cross-drilled rotors all around.
Also, is that a power bulge on the hood? As for the engine, speculation has it that the new 4.4-litre twin turbo seen in the X6 M and X5 M with 414kW will be used.
Not as powerful as the current segment power-king the Audi RS 6 V10 quattro with 425kW, however, BMW tends to make up for the power deficiency in driving dynamics.
As we lead into the winter testing season spies will sooner or later be able to gather more accurate information about the powerplant.
Print it: 
Is it me or does that look more like a 7 series?
It does look a lot bigger than the E60, especialy the front half. I’ll be very interested to see if they go with the V8TT powerplant or have an entirely new beast lined up.
IMO the use of a forced induction engine in the upcoming M5 will put an end too the aura of the M badge. Yes they destroyed that aura with the X6M/X5M creations but the M5 will be the first “proper” M too go forced induction. From a practical standpoint I can see why? It will enable them too get the required significant upgrade in power but with the added bonus of almost 200nm of torque over the current V10. All this will be achieved with far better fuel economy and emissions. All obviously good things, but at what expense? The M badge used too stand for purity of product IMO. Does not look like that rings true anymore. A truly sad day will be when the M3 goes forced induction rather than the brilliant V8 and even more purer straight six of old!
I completely agree with you there John. The M-Division have always been the masters of natural aspiration. Although I like the idea of more power and torque with greater fuel efficiency, I can’t help but feel that something will be lost. The S54B32 (E46 M3) motor on full song is a sound for the ages.
The E60 M5’s value just went through der dach!
Im sorry to be the bearer of bad news but Wheels reported last year the M3 would adopt TT6 technology to try and conform with emissions regulations and meet EuroVI standards. It is truly a sad day for the motoring world.
The engine should kill the E63 RS6. It’s what BMWs are there for.
I have mixed feelings – it will be a magnificent engine… but to not have NA…
My NA V10 sounds obscene at high revs!!