Camouflaged prototypes of the facelifted BMW M5 have been photographed undergoing development testing at the Nürburgring, as the current G90-generation performance sedan moves toward its Life Cycle Impulse. The updated model is expected to arrive in 2027 with revised styling, a redesigned cabin and possible suspension adjustments.

The current M5 debuted in mid-2024 with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. For the facelift, BMW appears to be preparing changes intended to bring the sedan more closely in line with the styling and technology direction of its Neue Klasse vehicles.

Revised exterior design

The most substantial visual changes are concentrated at the front. The prototype is expected to receive a slimmer kidney grille, reshaped bumper intakes and new LED headlights. Together, those changes will create a more pronounced shark-nose appearance while placing greater visual emphasis on the M5’s flared front fenders.

The side profile is expected to remain largely familiar. At the rear, however, the elongated taillights will gain new LED graphics, while the bumper will be reshaped. The signature quad exhaust outlets are expected to remain integrated into the rear diffuser.

The M5 recently received lighter 20- and 21-inch alloy wheels from BMW’s M Performance catalog. Those wheels will likely continue to be offered after the facelift, although details of the updated model’s wheel range have not been announced.

Neue Klasse-influenced cabin technology

The interior is also set for a significant update. Earlier spy images of the M5 Touring showed a larger infotainment display and a redesigned steering wheel, along with BMW’s Panoramic iDrive pillar-to-pillar screen positioned at the base of the windshield.

The arrangement is similar to the cabin technology appearing in the new BMW i3, iX3, iX4, X5 and 3-Series as those models enter the Neue Klasse era. The sedan is therefore expected to receive a more digitally focused interior while retaining its existing performance-oriented identity.

Plug-in hybrid powertrain expected to continue

Powertrain changes are not currently expected to be a major part of the facelift. The M5 is anticipated to retain its plug-in hybrid system, combining a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with a single electric motor and an 18.6-kWh battery pack.

The existing setup produces a combined 717 horsepower, equivalent to 535 kW or 727 PS, and 738 lb-ft of torque, or 1,000 Nm. The sedan completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in a stated 3.5 seconds, while the M5 Touring takes 3.6 seconds.

BMW M engineers are also testing potential suspension changes as part of the development process. Despite the M5’s approximately 2.5-ton curb weight, the current car has received praise for its handling, and the facelift may bring further adjustments to its driving dynamics.

The prototypes could begin shedding some of their camouflage in the coming weeks or months. A leaked factory-floor image reportedly showing the facelifted 5-Series sedan has also surfaced, hinting that the updated model’s debut may be approaching, although a specific reveal date has not been announced.