The CEO of BMW, Norbert Reithofer previously disclosed that they will be focusing on downsizing the engines used by their vehicles. The move is geared towards reducing emission and to up their fuel efficiency figures some more. He added that even the M division of BMW will follow this direction.
The latest spy photos reveal that the new M5 is still on its test phase. Although BMW has been known to fit their M vehicles with high revving engines, things may be heading to a different direction. According to insiders, the M5 expected to roll out by 2011, will have a V8 twin turbo powerplant instead of the V10 which is naturally aspirated.
The M variants of the X5 and the X6 sport a V-8 4.4L M engine that gives out 555 horsepower and a torque of 500 pound feet. This brings the SUV from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 4.5 seconds. The numbers will be good enough for the lighter and smaller M5 sedan which already has a 30 horsepower advantage over the next gen E63 AMG.
The new engine of the M5 will be coupled with the M-DCT dual clutch technology of BMW just like what was done with the M3. It is almost certain though that a conventional six speed will be offered.
The performance of the 2011 M5 will also be improved. This can be attributed to the carmakers choice of using lightweight materials like aluminum and carbon fiber. The front section of the car will be made from an aluminum hybrid spaceframe while the passenger compartment and the tail section will be made from a monocoque of traditional steel.
The design of the car and the materials used ensure favorable weight distribution that will contribute to an improved handling. The suspension system of the car will be MacPherson struts for the front and a multilink layout on the rear. We can also expect carbon fiber for the roof, fender and boot panels.