BMW will give the seventh-generation M5 a new petrol-hybrid powertrain as the M performance car division moves towards electrification for all its products.
The upcoming M2 will be BMW M’s last pure internal combustion model, while the XM full-size performance SUV will be the first BMW M model to feature electrification.
- Next-gen BMW M5 to have more than 700hp
- Will come with a petrol hybrid V8
- Upcoming BMW M2 will be the last pure petrol M car
Next-gen M5: to have 700hp-plus on tap
Due to go on sale globally by 2024, the new M5 super-sedan is among a series of M models that will switch from a conventional petrol engine to plug-in hybrid power in a move that will hike its power and performance. The new hybrid drivetrain is set to boost its reserves to “over 700hp” and offer “limited electric drive compatibility”, a source close to the German carmaker has confirmed it to our sister publication, Autocar UK.
Details remain scarce, but, as per Autocar UK, it will adopt a rear-mounted electric motor among a raft of major engineering changes. The synchronous unit, produced in-house, is claimed to operate in combination with a further developed version of BMW's twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine used by today’s sixth-generation BMW M5 and codenamed the S63. The adoption of the electric motor is set to increase the M5’s reserves by more than 200hp to somewhere in the region of 790hp.
As with today’s BMW M5, drive will be channelled through an eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles, while a fully variable xDrive four-wheel drive system will bring a distinctive rear-biased apportioning of power in the car's more performance-focused driving modes.
Next-gen BMW M5: to get unique M styling tweaks
Key features on the next M5 that will distinguish it from the upcoming new 5-series sedan will include widened front and rear tracks, performance brake system and quad tailpipes like the outgoing model. The super-sedan will have unique front and rear bumpers with a meaner-looking design, different alloy wheel options and M-badging all around including the interior that will also feature carbon-fibre bits and other unique M performance treatment.
The new 5-series will go on sale before the next-gen BMW M5. Expect more details in the coming months for both the models.
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