New Spy Video: 2012 BMW M5

With a year left before its official launch, BMW F10 test mules are continued to be spotted by committed spy photographers. Built on the F10 platform as the 5 Series sedan, the new 2012 M5 will be one of the “greenest” M cars built to date, but also one of the most aggressive and fastest M.

The 2012 BMW M5 will be one of the most aggressive M to date with impressive road presence and massive looks, but at the same time, it will be one of the “greenest” M models ever built. The new M5 incorporates several EfficientDynamics elements, from the KERS system to the brake energy regeneration technology.

The front-end gets the M treatment with the usual aggressive bumper and large air intake. The hood features the same sporty look with concave and convex shapes as seen in some of the newer BMWs. The design lines continue to flow from front to end and they become even more substantiated on the sides.

The M gills continue to be covered by the camouflage, but without a doubt, the M trademark will live in this model as well.

At the rear-end, the typical quad exhausts remain with a sculpted diffuser and central intake. A small bootlid spoiler allows the car to remain understated and restrained.

To fight off the increased dimensions, BMW focused on lightweight construction and materials. The chassis is pressed in aluminum and several lightweight materials are used in doors, bonnet and even roof (carbon fiber). To reduce drag and boost downforce and lower fuel consumption, special Aerodynamic aids that will be incorporated in the front of the car, including the outer-edge of the wheel arches , front bumpers and within the grille intake. Mini turbines are incorporated in the grille to convert drag under braking into electricity.

The next generation 2012 BMW M5 is powered by a V8 turbocharged engine. The official confirmation came from BMW’s M boss, Dr. Kay Segler, in a recent interview for Auto Bild.

The powerplant in the F10 M5 is based on the same unit found in the BMW X5 M and X6M, the twin scroll twin turbo version of the N63, known as the S63, with Cylinder-bank Comprehensive Manifold (CCM).

While Dr. Segler has not confirmed the power output, everyone’s expectations lie within the 585-600 horsepower range. As the M boss pointed out, the new M5 will offer the best of two worlds: for normal everyday driving and for use as a race car , triggered by a push of a button.

The F10 M5 will be unveiled next year at the Geneva Motor Show.