BMW BLOG

With all the talk focused around the BMW X1 these days, we forgot about another exciting BMW model which will launch in 2011: the new F10 BMW M5. The super duper luxury sport sedan is one of those BMWs that has always been close to the heart of any BMW fan and historically all the previous models have been well received.

And from the information we gathered in the past, the new M5 will not disappoint, on the contrary, it’s expected to bring out many innovations and a new direction for the Motorsport division which starts by replacing the naturally aspirated M engine with a turbocharged powerplant.

From the rumors we’ve been hearing in the past few weeks, BMW is currently evaluation two engines for the F10 M5. One of them is the new V8 twin-scroll turbo engine from the X5M/X6M models and surprisingly – at least for us – a V10 turbo engine based on the V8 with two extra cylinders added.

Regardless which engine will be chosen, the new M models are being developed under the “turbocharged umbrella”, a direction that has already provoked many heated commentaries from the BMW community.

Some of you might wonder if we’re indeed looking at the M5 in these photos, but there are a few giveaway elements that confirm that: the twin-dual pipes, an M trademark, wide fenders and of course, the massive brakes.

As it can be see in these new spy shots, the BMW M5 will grow in size, similar to the regular 5 Series model which will be both wider and longer. To keep the weight down and implicitly obtaining the performance level expected, BMW will be using a variety of lightweight materials, including carbon fiber and a new chassis.

The drivetrain of the F10 BMW M5 will feature a similar KERS system as the one found in the Formula 1 monoposts which will offer fuel savings technologies as well the ability to shut down cylinders while city driving.  The KERS will also feature a boost button imported from the F1 cars that will allow the driver to unleash all the energy stored up.

Two gearboxes are being considered, an updated 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DCT) or a more advanced 8-speed SMG.

[Source: Carscoop ]