The new M5 has let itself go compared to its predecessor, but some would argue it was a necessary evil. There's still a big V-8 engine under the hood, only this time, it's supplemented by an electric motor built into the gearbox.

Facelift models don’t usually feature wholesale changes to the bodywork, but BMW is planning to buck this trend with its 5-series and M5 overhaul. At the front the headlights and front grilles look very similar to the Neue Klasse saloon concept.

The changes are immediately apparent as the M5 adopts a Neue Klasse-inspired front fascia with a shorter grille that flows into new headlights. They’re joined by a new front bumper, which gains a middle intake as well as a revamped lower opening. The latter sports a central V-shape, which will presumably echo the one found on the M2.

Both cars will sit on BMW’s new Neue Klasse platform, and while the current 5 Series and M5 uses the German firm’s CLAR modular architecture, we can see from these spy shots it will eventually have the same styling at least as its Neue Klasse siblings.

At least six Neue Klasse EVs, along with some gas-powered models featuring Neue Klasse-inspired styling, are set to launch in rapid succession. The rollout begins this year with t

BMW M5 debuted less than a year ago, with the reveal taking place at the end of June 2024. Despite this, BMW is already preparing a facelift for its first hybridized M5, and we're not complaining. While its weight was one of the key elements singled out by many for criticism,

BMW is already preparing to facelift its M5 super sedan, with a restyled example spotted testing in camouflage.

BMW unveiled the current M5 only last summer, but our spy photographers have already spotted an updated model.