BMW M5 Concept photos released

The car was showcased at a preview event in Germany, and the photos were subsequently leaked onto the Internet. The M5 Concept is scheduled to be officially unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show on April 19.

The latest M5 is based on the new F10 5-Series, and is expected to get a modified version of the twin-turbocharged V8 engine that is found on the X5 M and X6 M. The new engine is said to be lighter, more powerful and more economical than the outgoing 5.0-litre V10 unit of the previous M5, and could potentially have up to 600bhp.

Going by the concept, cosmetic enhancements on the new M5 appear to be limited to bespoke front and rear bumpers, side air vents, four tail pipes and the five-spoke M alloy wheels. The car is expected to be revealed in full production form at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, and go on sale by 2012.