Although BMW are still calling this a “concept”, we think its fair to say that you are looking at the new M5.

For whatever reason, this car seems to define this sector of ballistic German super saloons. While the E63 AMG is an incredible machine, no doubt, and the Audi RS6 with that dark-hearted BiTurbo V10 is a beast, the M5 has always offered a bit more for the driver.

Ever-so-slightly more subtle than the outgoing V10, the 2011 model is by no means timid when it comes to power. The new twin-turbo V8 (which we reckon has just been nicked from the X6) is apparently 25% more fuel efficient, while producing more power and more torque. 431kW to be almost precise, up from 408kW in that screaming V10. Some overseas magazines are citing “sources” saying that the 0-100km/h time is down to 4.5 seconds.

The “production” version will debut in Frankfurt later this year, and judging by our time spent with the brilliant 530d late last year, BMW would have to actually try and make a dud car.

Ciro De Siena – OverdriveTV