Next-gen BMW M5 spotted on test

BMW will probably take the evolutionary route with the next-gen 5 Series which is set to come out in the second half of this year. Now this can only mean one thing, the range topping hot M5 won't be out sooner than late 2017 or early 2018. Nevertheless, the latter has been caught on camera again while undergoing testing. 

For the first time in its history spanning over three decades, the M5 will receive an optional xDrive all-wheel drive system. Rear-wheel drive, however, will obviously be standard and power should come from the same twin-turbo V8 4.4-litre engine from the current model but uprated to deliver up to 620bhp. What could come as a disappointment for some is the possibility of BMW ditching the 6-speed manual which is an option in some markets. The next M5, then, could be automatic only. 

The new M5 is expected to shed a noticeable amount of weight as a result of using BMW’s new 35up platform that underpins the latest-gen 7 Series. What’s more, BMW could even bring back the Touring (estate) version to take on the Audi RS6 Avant and the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG estate.