The new M5 rumours circus, still at least two years away, is now in full swing with the latest information available online.
The next generation BMW M5 is still two years away. It will be available a year after regular 5-series. Autocar has learned that the Germans are currently working on a successor for the 507hp, 5.0-liter V10 engine. This engine has won numerous awards, including Engine of the Year in 2005 and 2006.
The new 5.5-liter V10 will produce 550hp. It will be mated with either the seven-speed M DCT doubeclutch transmission (or the six-speed manual gearbox). The new engine will be equipped with a direct injection turbo-charged unit as well as BMW’s stop-start technology, which automatically shuts off the engine when it isn’t being used. This is to reduce the impact on fuel economy and emissions.
Intelligent alternator control technology will be available for the 2011 M5. This system monitors the battery and uses energy that would otherwise be wasted through regenerative brakes. This new technology improves the vehicle’s performance and fuel economy, but does not compromise its power.
Above is a prototype for the new BMW M5 that was tested last year by WCF. It shows the engine in action.