BMW is already working on updating the current 5-Series; however, judging by the latest spy photos, the changes may turn out to be less dramatic than expected. Instead of radically redesigned front and rear ends inspired by the Neue Klasse design language, the updates may be much more restrained.
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Until BMW starts removing the camouflage from the 2027 model year 5-Series prototypes currently undergoing testing, it is impossible to know the exact scale of the exterior updates. For now, we can only make assumptions based on the little that is visible under the wrap.
Two Paths to the Future
This hasn’t stopped digital artists from offering their own interpretations of what the facelift might bring. Some imagined a complete transformation in the Neue Klasse style, while others lean towards a more evolutionary update, leaving radical shifts for the next generation. One rendering even explores what the flagship M5 Touring might look like in both scenarios.
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In the rendering by Nikita Chuiko, the red wagon has a front end that differs from the current model. First and foremost, the existing model’s headlights are replaced with narrow units that look a bit more refined and have simpler LED daytime running lights.
One could argue that these new headlights lack as much individuality as the current ones, but we are sure there will be those who prefer them.
Besides the new headlights, the updated M5 Touring has slightly smaller black kidney grilles. They are still much larger than those that will be introduced on many other models in BMW’s Neue Klasse era, but they are certainly an improvement over the current model’s “kidneys”.
These renderings also show the facelifted model with a new front bumper, different side air intakes, and modified front fenders.
What If BMW Chooses Full Neue Klasse?
Chuiko also created two more interpretations for Kolesa, both showing the M5 with a Neue Klasse-style front end inspired by the 2023 Vision Neue Klasse concept car. This design showcases elements expected on both the next gasoline-powered 3 Series and the electric i3, which will use a different platform shared with the iX3.
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The first version retains an overall sharper design and features a new grille layout. It is positioned in a full-width horizontal panel that integrates headlights at both ends, reminiscent of the traditional BMW face made iconic by models like the E30 3-Series and E24 6 Series.
The other variant retains the Neue Klasse headlights but replaces the wide, low-set horizontal grilles with a more compact version of the current model’s dual kidney design.
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The scale of changes to the interior remains unclear. While it is possible that BMW could completely update the car’s dashboard with its new Panoramic iDrive system from the iX3, we somewhat doubt this will happen, considering how minimal the exterior updates will be.
Will the V8 Regain the Lost 40 HP?
Under the hood, we are also in a waiting mode. The M5’s hybrid powertrain combines a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 with an electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission; however, Euro 7 emission standards forced BMW to reduce the output of the S68 engine by 40 horsepower, at least in Europe.
This means the V8’s output drops from 577 hp to 537 hp. However, BMW compensated for this by tuning the electric motor, keeping the total system power at 717 hp. It is quite possible that the company will find a way to keep the refined engine and restore the V8’s full power, potentially increasing total output beyond current levels.
We assume the updated 5-Series will debut later this year, before hitting the market as a 2027 model. The M5 sedan and M5 Touring will likely appear after that, possibly for the 2028 model year.
John Halas contributed to this article.
The preparation for the facelift and the variety of its possible versions indicate the complex balance BMW is trying to strike between innovation and heritage. On one hand, there is the pressure of the new Neue Klasse design philosophy; on the other, the need to preserve the recognizability and character of a successful model that has its own, already established, audience. Technical aspects, such as adapting powertrains to stricter environmental standards, also play a key role, forcing engineers to seek compromises between power and efficiency. The final look of the updated “five” will show which path—revolutionary or evolutionary—the company chooses for one of its most important sedans during a transitional period.