Key Takeaways
- Next-gen M5 will have 43 miles of all-electric range, making it more efficient and improving performance.
- M5 rumored to have 718 hp from electrified V8 engine, heavier weight could impact handling.
- New M5 will be larger, with sophisticated suspension and production expected in July 2024.
BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has confirmed that the next-generation M5 will boast an all-electric range of more than 40 miles.
Speaking at the BMW Group’s 2024 Annual Conference, the chief executive said the M5 will first arrive as a sedan, with the ‘Touring’ wagon arriving at a later stage. The BMW M plug-in hybrid system will deliver 43 miles of range. It’s worth noting this was most likely calculated on the WLTP cycle, so expect a more realistic EPA figure when the M5 arrives in America.
Zipse did not confirm when the M5 would be unveiled but mentioned a reveal will take place sometime this year. 43 miles of all-electric range is handy and would allow many owners to commute on battery power alone.
This would make the M5 far more efficient and frugal than before while improving performance.
Improved Efficiency And Performance – But There’s A Weight Penalty
If the rumors are to be believed, the new BMW M5 will have 718 horsepower courtesy of its electrified V8 engine. That’s a considerable increase over the outgoing model, which offers up to 617 hp in Competition guise.
Sans electrification, the twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 reportedly develops 577 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. That’s impressive enough, but the electric motor adds 194 hp and 206 lb-ft. The motor gains power from an 18.6 kWh battery.
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Interestingly, that’s slightly smaller than the 19.4 kWh battery fitted to the electrified 550e xDrive. On the WLTP cycle, this model can travel up to 63 miles.
While that’s a healthy bump, leaks suggest the new M5 will be a hefty sports sedan, tipping the scales at 5,368 lbs. That is yet to be confirmed, but that would make it nearly as heavy as the current X5 M (5,498 lbs). Hopefully, that increase in weight won’t dull the M5’s handling prowess.
What Else Do We Know About The Hybrid M5?
We’ve already caught a glimpse of the M5’s rear end, with a leaked image showcasing a muscular-looking rear fascia with quad tailpipes. The new M5 is rumored to be larger than its mainstream sibling, measuring 1.4 inches longer and 2.8 inches wider than a 5 Series sedan. Even the wheelbase has been stretched to accommodate the sophisticated suspension setup.
The new M5 will sport a staggered wheel setup, with 285/40/20 and 295/35/21 wheels at the front and rear, respectively. Insiders claim the new M5 will enter production in July 2024, which means a debut is imminent.
Given the M5’s reputation as the sharpest-driving car in its class, we have no doubt the latest model will deliver on this front. However, with the next-generation Mercedes-AMG E63 also on the way, it won’t be easy for the M5 to defend its title.
