Leaked Images and Specifications Reveal 2012 BMW M5 F10
Official images and technical details of the 2012 BMW M5 F10 have surfaced ahead of the model’s public debut, confirming a 560PS twin-turbo V8 and major performance upgrades.
BMW’s 2012 M5 F10 has been revealed in full production form after official images and technical details surfaced ahead of schedule. The leak, originating from German publication Auto Zeitung, confirms the new M5 closely follows the concept shown at the Shanghai Auto Show, with only minor changes to the exterior.
S63 Twin-Turbo V8 Delivers 560PS
The F10 M5 is powered by BMW’s S63 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8, producing 560PS (552hp) and 680Nm of torque. This marks a 53hp increase over the outgoing E60’s naturally aspirated V10. The new engine is paired as standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch (DCT) transmission, while a manual gearbox is expected to be offered, though this had not been officially confirmed at the time of the leak.
BMW claims a 0-100km/h (0-62mph) time of 4.4 seconds, a notable improvement over the E60’s 4.7 seconds. Acceleration to 200km/h (124mph) is quoted at 13 seconds. The M5’s top speed remains electronically limited to 250km/h (155mph), but the optional M Driver’s Package will raise this to 305km/h (189mph).
Chassis and Drivetrain Enhancements
The 2012 M5 introduces an active M-differential with full torque vectoring capability. The system can transfer up to 100 percent of available torque between the rear wheels, improving traction and cornering stability. BMW also claims a 25 percent reduction in emissions compared to the previous model, helped by the adoption of Auto Start Stop technology.
Visually, the production M5 seen in Monte Carlo Blue stays close to the concept, with only subtle differences in detail. The car’s stance, aggressive bumpers, and signature quad exhausts are all present, reinforcing its M division identity.
Comparison: F10 M5 vs E60 M5
| Specification | F10 M5 (2012) | E60 M5 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 | 5.0-litre V10 |
| Power | 560PS (552hp) | 507PS (500hp) |
| Torque | 680Nm | 520Nm |
| 0-100km/h | 4.4s | 4.7s |
| Transmission | 7-speed DCT (manual expected) | 7-speed SMG (manual in US) |
| Top speed (limited) | 250km/h | 250km/h |
| Top speed (with M Driver’s Package) | 305km/h | 305km/h |
Launch Timing and Market Position
The full press release and high-resolution images are expected in the following week, with the public debut set for the M Festival at the Nürburgring on 23 June 2011. The F10 M5 is positioned as BMW’s flagship performance saloon, competing directly with the latest offerings from Mercedes-AMG and Audi RS.
For further details on the S63 engine and technical background, see 2012 BMW M5: S63 Twin-Turbo V8 Powers F10 Generation.
