While hardly capable of the F1 engine's stratospheric 19,000 rpm, the future M5's Valvetronic engine will reportedly be capable of running to 9,000 rpm - amazing just the same. Only Honda's S2000 delivers such high revving excitement, made less significant being a small displacement 4-cylinder configuration normally associated with high rpm.
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| The second generation SMG sequential gearbox found in the M5 will shift even faster than the current one found in the M3. (Photo: BMW Canada) |
Expect the choice of two transmissions, a 6-speed manual once again with the option of a 6-speed SMG II sequential gearbox. Said to shift even quicker than the SMG equipped M3, the second generation sequential gearbox will also offer relatively smooth automatic mode optimal for driving in stop-and-go traffic.
Stylistically the M5 concept gets a revised front fascia with a gaping mesh covered center vent for cooling the engine. Rocker panel skirts are also part of the exterior package, visually tying into an aggressively lowered rear valance featuring cutouts to incorporate the car's trademark four circular tailpipes. The rear decklid will underpin an understated but nevertheless aerodynamically critical rear wing, while its aluminum rims will without doubt span at least 19-inches in diameter.
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| The new M5 is expected to show up in European showrooms in the fall, with a North American specified model to follow shortly after. (Photo: BMW Canada) |
The M5's V10 will also get the nod for the brand's upcoming M6, while a version of the 2003 model year M5's 394 horsepower V8 is expected to climb under the hood of a future M3. What will happen to the silky-smooth 333 horsepower inline-6 that M3 fans have become so fond of? It's expected to slip in front of the Z4 M Roadster firewall. There could also be an M version of the hot-selling X3 SUV or even an M1 - although some long-term Bimmer fans might have something to say about BMW's new compact model sporting the brand's most coveted nameplate. More likely such a car would be a coupe or convertible, with M2 being the chosen moniker.