Updates for the Neue Klasse Era
It seems like the new BMW M5 Touring was just unveiled, but already BMW is preparing an update for it as part of its Neue Klasse era. The changes will affect not only the exterior, but the M5’s interior will also be completely redesigned. Everything indicates that it will become very different from the current model.
There is nothing fundamentally wrong with the current M5 interior, both in the sedan and the wagon. It includes the BMW Curved Display, which combines the infotainment and digital instrument cluster screens, as well as a sporty three-spoke steering wheel. But the situation is changing.
BMW Is Injecting Future Neue Klasse DNA Into Its M5 Touring
New Technologies in the Cabin
To start, new interior photos of the 5-Series Touring show that the Curved Display will be replaced with a basic, tablet-like screen, similar to the one installed in the second-generation iX3, which will be positioned in the center of the dashboard. Furthermore, a traditional instrument cluster is not visible. This can mean only one thing: the updated M5 will receive the iX3’s panoramic iDrive projection display, located at the very base of the windshield.
Other elements appear to be borrowed from the iX3. For example, it’s the same unusual two-spoke steering wheel with large control panels on the left and right. As in the iX3, the new M5 Touring will also have the engine start/stop button on the center console, as well as a new crystal gear selector.
Design Changes
In addition to the new interior, it is known that BMW is making adjustments to the exterior design of all 5-Series models, including the M5 sedan and Touring.
Initially, it was assumed that this luxury model would receive a full redesign in the Neue Klasse style, but the latest prototypes look a bit more restrained. For example, the kidney-shaped grille from the current car will be retained, albeit slightly smaller in size. Changes will also affect the headlights, and modifications are planned for the front bumper as well.
Looking at the rear, the car will look mostly familiar, although the taillights will also be updated.
Technical Specifications
No changes to the powertrain are expected, although the M5 doesn’t really need them. Currently, the 4.4-liter bi-turbo plug-in hybrid V8 engine produces 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, which is quite enough to compensate for the car’s enormous weight of 5,530 lbs (2,475 kg).
The update to the M5, especially in the wagon body style, demonstrates BMW’s strategy of gradually introducing key elements of its new architecture and design into existing best-selling models. The focus on a panoramic display instead of traditional instruments reflects the general trend in the automotive industry towards simplifying the cabin and improving driver interaction. The retention of the powerful hybrid powertrain indicates that the company does not yet see the need for its radical modernization, concentrating on technological and aesthetic improvements that shape the user experience in an era where electrification and digitalization are becoming top priorities.