New BMW M5 with Major Design Changes Likely to Arrive by 2027

• Featuring BMW’s new class design language
• Will retain the current hybrid setup

BMW is already working on a major facelift for the current-gen M5, and going by the latest spy shots from the Nurburgring, this isn’t your average mid-cycle refresh. What’s especially striking is that the sports sedan is being updated with elements from BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse design language, a styling direction originally meant for its next-gen EVs.

Despite the current-gen M5 being relatively new to the market, BMW seems eager to bring it in line with the design seen on future models like the next-gen iX3, X5, and even the upcoming 3 Series. The M5 facelift, expected to arrive by 2027, will not only get visual updates, but will likely retain its high-performance plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The test mule spotted at the Nurburgring was heavily camouflaged, hinting at extensive exterior revisions. The new front fascia appears to incorporate slimmer headlights integrated into a full-width design element that includes narrower kidney grilles. A more aggressive front bumper with large air intakes further enhances its sporting intent.

From the sides, while the iconic Hofmeister kink on the rear door remains unchanged, other body panels such as the bonnet seem new. The central bonnet crease, currently under wraps, might make way for a cleaner, more futuristic look. Around the back, the prototype continues to feature four exhaust outlets, and interestingly, a charging port on the left front fender confirms that this will remain a plug-in hybrid model. The prototype also wears temporary lighting elements, giving away its nascent development phase. The ceramic brakes and large alloy wheels further reinforce its M credentials.

This move to update the M5 so early, especially with such a forward-looking design language, underlines BMW’s push to modernise its lineup, blending high-performance combustion engines with a cleaner, more minimalist design, inspired by its electric future. Stay tuned as we bring more updates on the 2027 BMW M5 facelift in the coming months.