BMW’s M Division has a big year coming up, with the performance arm’s boss confirming no less than four new models to be launched throughout 2024.
Franciscus van Meel, CEO for BMW M GmbH, told media at the launch of the new BMW i5 M60 and i7 M70 that the go-fast division will release Lifecycle Impulse (LCI) mid-life updates for the top-selling M3 and M4, a new M4 CS, as well as the all-new M5 and M5 Touring.
Mr van Meel didn’t go into too much detail, naturally, though he did confirm the new M5 and M5 Touring will feature an M Hybrid powertrain – confirming rumours of the first electrified M5 offering plug-in hybrid power.
While exact details of the new M5’s drivetrain weren’t detailed during Mr van Meel’s presentation, CarExpert expects a version of the BMW XM Red Label’s PHEV system, which teams a 430kW/750Nm 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor and 25.7kWh lithium-ion battery for total system outputs of 550kW and 1000Nm.
It’ll likely be available only with xDrive variable all-wheel drive given the confirmation of a plug-in hybrid system, but it’s unclear whether there will be standard and Competition specifications with varying power levels.
The most recent generation M5 was a sedan only offering, but that’s about to change with the revival of the M5 Touring.
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M5 Sedan -
M5 Touring
The new-generation M4 CS, meanwhile, is expected to be based on the M4 Coupe LCI update and follows the formula laid down by the M3 CS revealed in January.
Unlike the hardcore and strictly limited M4 CSL, which cut weight by 100kg, thanks in part to the removal of the rear seats and was rear-wheel drive only, the M4 CS is expected to score all-wheel drive with the same 405kW/650Nm 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six and feature the M3 CS’s retuned chassis and extensive use of carbon-fibre.
As for the standard M3 and M4, we’d expect exterior design changes to go with interior updates to closer align the performance models with the 3 Series LCI range – though the M3 and M4 have already moved to the BMW Curved Display paired with the eighth generation of the company’s iDrive infotainment system.
It’s unclear whether the S58 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline six will receive any updates for the facelift, with the current Competition spec pumping out 375kW and 650Nm.
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M4 CSL -
M3 CS
Currently, the BMW M3 is offered in Sedan and Touring (wagon) bodies, with standard, Competition and CS variants available depending on body variation.
The M4 range comprises of Coupe and Convertible versions in both standard and Competition specifications, with the CS set to join the updated range, and the CSL limited to just 1400 units globally.
Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest, and let us know which upcoming BMW M product you’re most excited for!
MORE: Everything BMW M3 | M4 | M5
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