Spy shots: Next M5 to feature twin-turbo V8, KERS
 

Despite the current trend to downsize engine offerings, BMW will reportedly push the envelope with a twin-turbocharged V10 for its next-generation M5. In addition to the V10 powerplant, the next M5 will reportedly feature a version of BMW’s F1 Kinetic Energy Recovery System.

Not satisfied with the current car’s 507 horsepower naturally aspirated V10, BMW will shoehorn a twin-turbo ten-pot into the next-generation of the M5, according to Auto Express. Said to be derived from the twin-turbocharged V8 used in the company’s X5 M and X6 M, the new V10 will crank out at least 600 horsepower.

Previous reports suggested the next M5 would be powered by a twin-turbo V8, but BMW could be planning to one-up cars like the Cadillac CTS-V and Audi RS6 with a forced induction V10.

In addition to the new twin-turbo V10, BMW is also said to be working on an F1-derived KERS system for the next M5. As used in F1 racing, the KERS system would recoup some of the energy lost during deceleration, storing that energy for an extra boost of power. Unlike typical hybrid drivetrains, the KERS system was designed for pure performance.

Despite its less-than-green hybrid system, the new M5 will have some eco-friendly tech aboard. A cylinder deactivation system should be included in the M5 package, which will help boost fuel economy – particularly in highway driving.

The next M5 – along with the rest of the 5-Series range – is expected to bow next year as a 2011 model.

Next BMW M5 to feature twin-turbo V10, KERS?

WOW! Can I test drive one.

Enjoy it while you can Caddy. We all knew it wouldn't be long.

Too bad they're behind the ball on finally getting around to it. CTS-V....20k less, and every review i've ever read says it handles and drives better. Merc's been handing our asses to us for how long...c'mon BMW.

I'm going to start practicing my hop out of the car without touching the chassis!!!:D KERS baby yeah!!:bustingup

I have not read one single review on the CTS-V that praised the CTS-V's handling feel or track manners over the M5. Yes, I guess it was faster around the ring, but even in the Motor Week comparison they praised the M5's brakes, road manners and confidence inspiring handling. They still called it the ultimate driving machine...just saying.

MB builds fast drag racers with those huge displacement engines, but they dont have a track equal to the M5 in their lineup unless you are talking about a Black series or something.

LOL.. that fat dude on motorweek is a joke.. Top Gear praised the handling, brakes and useable power of the CTS-V, it's about time BMW went FI on the M cars.. the E60 m5 I had was slow as hell off the line and had no torque... the brakes were also crap since it wasn't even a multi piston design. I had major brake fade on the one track day with that car even with better brake fluid.

Love the 5er and glad to see the boost. need to update my e39 m....:thumbup::thumbup:

KERS will be interesting for sure in an M car. Nice to see them implementing it even as they drop it for their F1 cars.

I wouldn't say sub 4.5 seconds is "slow as hell off the line" for a decent sized sedan. I know the MB's and CTS-V are faster, but M has never really been about huge torque figures. More about higher revving, higher speed performance. That is why the M5 typically beats MB's when it comes to track comparisons. I would guess that torque will be bumped significantly with the new TT though.

I hear you about typical BMW brakes when it comes to track days. As good as the brakes are on the road, fade during track days has been a complaint for a while now. Even on M cars with stock equipment.

:iagree: