We still may not quite wrap our heads around the idea of a hybrid BMW M5, but the performance sedan will surely rock the electric avenue. The “Hybrid Test Vehicle” stickers on the front doors and rear bumpers are a deadly gift, and so is the cargo port head on the front left fender. The AMG E63 competitor is back in a new spy video shot while the test driver enjoys some nice country roads.
The chunky wheel arches and quad exhaust are indicative of the M nature of the prototype, not to mention the massive brakes also for the rear axle. While the test vehicle appears to have the entire production body, it lacks the latest headlights and taillights. A subtle trunk lid spoiler is hidden under the camo, while the disguise is hidden in front of a normal-sized grill.
21 Photos
As with many recent BMWs, the next generation 5 Series will switch to the spool door handle to create a smoother side profile for better airflow. The wheels are smaller than what we are used to seeing on an M5 for good reason – winter tires. Expect the production version to flank a larger set, which appears to be bad side skirts.
Being a hybrid of the plug-in variety, the new M5 should accommodate a relatively large battery pack for a decent amount of electrical range. It should adopt the same PHEV setup as the Concept XM, which promised to cover 80 kilometers (50 miles) without tasting gasoline. Both are rumored to be using a new S68 engine that could go down in history as the very latest BMW V8.
The plug-in hybrid SUV will go into production by the end of the year and is expected to have around 750 hp to repeat last year’s concept. The combined version of the M5 should be in the same ballpark, which is certainly impressive, but the electric motor and battery pack will certainly add weight. Do not be surprised if it hits the 2,000 kg mark (or 4,409 lbs) as the M5 competition is already tipping at 1,930 kg (4,255 lbs).
It will be a long wait for the new M5 as BMW will be showing the next 5 Series for the first time. Therefore, the Range Topper is unlikely to sell before the end of 2023 or early 2024.
Add Comment