Next BMW M5 spotted doing rounds at Nurburgring

BMW has unleashed some details and a handful of prototype photos of the new, 2018 M5 super sports sedan. The M xDrive system, as it is called, carries M-specific software with integrated control of longitudinal and lateral dynamics. In this setting the computers allow a certain amount of slip at the rear wheels, to offer the agility of traditional M cars. "As a result, the new BMW M5 can be piloted with the familiar blend of sportiness and unerring accuracy on both the race track and the open road - and in various weather conditions, too". But the default setting will always be all-wheel drive, with the driver having to manually toggle out of it.

Beyond the new platform, another dramatic change for this generation of the M5, the F90 to all the hardcore fans, will be all-wheel drive. In 4WD mode, M xDrive has a neutral set-up that lends itself to optimum controllability and outstanding traction. BMW M GmbH Chairman Frank van Meel says this gives the M5 "all of the agility and precision of standard rear-wheel drive with the supreme poise and traction of the all-wheel-drive system".

Once the DSC is deactivated, there is a choice of 4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD as well.

Like the E 63, the M5 can lock out the all-wheel drive system, turning it into a full rear-wheel drive drift monster. "The combination of incredibly agile handling, terrific feel and exceptional controllability can be attributed to the Active M Differential".

The G30 M5 will be powered by an upgraded version of the existing car's 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 that BMW says will produce more power and torque without revealing final outputs thanks to modifications such a increasing the pressure of the fuel injection system, improving lubrication for lower internal friction levels, the fitment of new turbo chargers and a lighter exhaust system which it says produces a better soundtrack.

In a move that mirrors its chief rival, the Mercedes-AMG E63 (which coincidentally arrives in Australian showrooms this month), BMW recognises the adoption of all-paw traction was required to improve performance, although it has yet to confirm exactly how much faster, or more powerful, the new M5 will be when it goes on-sale in Australia next year.