Next-gen BMW 5 Series spy video shows saloon hiding redesigned exterior

BMW is preparing the next-generation 5 Series, which will be available as a saloon and a estate. A new video shows the saloon out testing on public roads attempting to hide its new design. 

The saloon in the video is still wearing a camouflage wrap and distorting cladding, obscuring the model's new yet familiar shape. It won't adopt the controversial styling of other BMW models, featuring a slim kidney grille, a lower bumper opening, and sleek headlights, which appear to be stand-in units on this test vehicle. The video also captures the saloon's flush door handles.

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The clip provides a brief peek inside the new 5 Series. It's difficult to see anything specific, but previous spy shots revealed it has a dual-screen layout on the dashboard and an iX-like centre console. The car will come with BMW's latest iDrive infotainment software system.

The next-generation BMW 5 Series will ride on the automaker's CLAR platform. This will underpin the entire model range, from the petrol, diesel, and hybrid versions to the all-electric i5. While BMW will offer the model with a range of powertrain choices, they won't be available in every market. The petrol-powered 530i and all-electric i5 will arrive in the United States to start.

Check Out Previous Spy Shots:

Next BMW 5 Series shows interior for the first time in spy photos

BMW i5 Touring spied with production lights

While BMW will lean heavily on electrification with the next-generation model, the M5 is expected to return. It's also rumoured to be the only next-generation 5 Series variant to feature a V8 engine. However, BMW will electrify it, likely using the S68 engine that powers the new 760i, X7 M60i, and XM. The powertrain will make 750 bhp (559 kilowatts) in the range-topping XM variant coming this year, which should be plenty of power for the coveted M car.

BMW hasn't set a debut date for the new 5 Series, but it will break cover sometime later this year. The automaker will also launch a Touring estate version. The petrol-powered saloon should arrive alongside the electric versions, with the hotter M5 in saloon and estate flavours following some time in 2024. We expect future test vehicles to begin losing some of their camouflage as we approach the car's debut.