It has been said that BMW will offer this new engine with two transmissions, a 6-speed manual and 6-speed SMG II sequential gearbox. Though performance numbers have not been released, they're bound to be impressive!
 |
| Compared to the normal 5-Series, the new M5 is more aggressive in appearance thanks to subtle design modifications. (Photo: BMW Canada) |
The concept M5, which has been finished in a delicious shade of pewter, has received a few appearance upgrades to help it stand out from its inline-6 and V8 powered siblings. Modest but eye-catching, a deep, flowing mesh-backed front valance has been installed. The more muscular front end flows up through the grille before integrating smoothly into the car's nose. Side and rear skirts are also added.
A small rear spoiler, large alloy wheels and the M5's trademark four-pipe exhaust system compliment the rear end design, signifying that this is the king of sport sedans.
While not official, the V10 utilized in the 2005 M5 will most likely be used in the upcoming M6, while a shortened 2004 spec M5 V8 will make its way into the next generation M3 engine bay.
Hopefully, the superb 6-cylinder M engine will remain somewhere in BMW's lineup, possibly as an M3 "light," or perhaps a Z4 M Roadster, an M version of the X3 or even a top-tier upgrade to the upcoming 1- or 2-Series cars.
The next-generation M5 is expected to make its way into European showrooms by autumn of this year, with North America to follow thereafter.