The sixth generation BMW M5 is getting a
facelift, similar to the regular 5-Series model that was unceremoniously
revealed in leaked official images recently, three years after production of
the super sedan commenced. Spied running hot laps around the Nurburgring this
week, the 2021 BMW M5 prototype wears the psychedelic vinyl stickers on both
ends that hide the visual changes.
As we’ve seen on the regular 5-Series LCI Don’t expect anything dramatic in the design
department, as the German auto firm has played it safe. First thing’s first,
the super sedan won’t feature an oversized grille, which is always a good
thing. As for the actual updates, we can see that beyond the new angled grille
vanes, it sports new headlights with a different lighting signature and a
bumper with reshaped and larger air intakes.
The power domes on the hood carry over and
the boot lid continues to sport a thin spoiler on the regular M5. The diffuser
appears to be new and retains the cutouts on each side for the double exhaust
pipes. We can expect a new bumper and likely new taillights with a more modern
pattern. Don’t look for anything major inside either, as BMW is believed to
have kept the updates limited to new trims and colors, plus new technology gear
and a revised infotainment system.
Under the hood, the 4.4-liter twin-turbo
V8 will soldier on, although it’s not know yet if it will welcome any modifications,
be that for power or for fuel economy and emissions. The V8 produces 592 HP and 750 Nm of torque in the current M5, allowing
it to sprint to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. In the M5 Competition,
it puts out 617 HP for a 0-100 km/h of 3.3
seconds.
Besides the regular M5
and the more powerful M5 Competition, the series will also welcome a CS variant
as well. The facelifted 2021 M5 is expected to be revealed in the second half
of the year with sales to follow shortly after.
