Updates in the Spirit of Neue Klasse
It seems the BMW M5 sedan and Touring have barely arrived, but their update within the Neue Klasse strategy is already in preparation. The exterior of the cars will receive certain changes, but the real revolution will happen inside. The interior is being prepared for a comprehensive overhaul, and as a result, it may look significantly different from the current model.
Why Change a Successful Interior
There is nothing particularly wrong with the current M5 interior, be it the sedan or Touring. It is equipped with the familiar BMW curved display, which combines the multimedia system and digital instruments into a single panel, and also features a massive three-spoke steering wheel, hinting at the car’s sporty character. However, changes are inevitable.
Fresh photos of the 5 Series Touring interior show that the curved display will be gone. In its place, a tablet-style screen from the second-generation iX3 will appear, mounted centrally on the dashboard.
New Instrument Panel Concept
Even more telling is what is not visible. There is no traditional instrument cluster at all. This points to an obvious conclusion: the updated M5 will likely receive the iDrive panoramic projection display from the iX3, which will be projected onto the lower part of the windshield.
Other elements appear to be borrowed directly from the iX3. The most noticeable is the somewhat unusual two-spoke steering wheel with large control panels on both sides. However, this is likely just for testing. While such a configuration may appear in regular 5 Series models, the M5 itself is expected to adhere to tradition and retain the three-spoke steering wheel.
As in the iX3, the updated M5 Touring also has a new placement for the engine start/stop button on the center console, alongside the crystal gear selector.
Exterior Design Changes
The interior is not the only area under review. BMW is also refining the exterior across the entire 5 Series lineup, including the M5 sedan and Touring.
Initially, it was assumed the model would receive a full Neue Klasse design revolution, but recent prototypes point to more restrained changes. For example, the current car’s kidney grilles will be retained but will become slightly smaller. Adjustments will also affect the headlights and front bumper.
The rear will remain recognizable. The main change will concern updated rear lights, not a complete redesign.
Technical Specifications
As for the technical underpinnings, no surprises are expected. Currently, the 4.4-liter bi-turbo V8 plug-in hybrid produces 717 hp and 1000 Nm of torque, which is almost enough to compensate for the car’s massive weight of 2475 kg.
The transition to new interfaces and displays is part of a broader trend in the automotive industry, where the focus is shifting towards technology integration and improving driver interaction. The panoramic projection display may not only create a more modern impression but also improve safety by reducing the need to take one’s eyes off the road. Retaining the powerful hybrid powertrain indicates that BMW is balancing innovation with proven performance, trying to satisfy both traditionalists and fans of new technology. The M5 Touring remains a unique offering in its segment, combining the practicality of a family car with supercar-level performance.