According to BMW Blog, the new 5-Series lineup will be lacking the V8-powered M550i, instead offering a range of hybrid specs powered by four to six cylinders.
The alleged top-of-the-line spec will be called M560e and be similar to the already introduced M760e except for some modifications, the source reports.
The new 7-Series uses a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine in tandem with a starter-generator and an electric motor. The whole amounts to 571 PS (563 hp / 420 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft), letting the car sprint 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.3 seconds. The 5-Series is expected to have the same power and less weight, resulting in faster acceleration.
Even if the M5 gets to keep its traditional 4.4-liter V8 – which is questionable – it will most likely be electrified, too. The still-to-be-revealed BMW XM is said to be rated at around 650 PS (641 hp / 478 kW), and the new M5 might get a similar powertrain, too.
We will learn more next year when the next-gen 5-Series finally gets its official introduction.