BMW’s new M5 super-saloon has been spotted testing again; it will do battle with the 2017 Mercedes-AMG E63 when it arrives next year

The next-generation BMW M5 has been spotted testing again, revealing significant design features including its large front air intakes and drilled disc brakes.

The new 5 series flagship is set to offer a choice between rear-wheel drive and optional four-wheel drive for the first time. It is tentatively due to be unveiled at the 2017 Geneva motor show, with a developed version of BMW’stwin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine under the bonnet.

Like the current car, it will use a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, but the engine's peak output is expected to increase from the 552bhp and 502lb ft of torque of today’s model.

Along with the rest of the 5 series range, the next M5 will feature an evolved design that takes influence from the Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe concept of 2013. Photographed development cars confirm it’ll get a more heavily raked rear window and a sloping boot deck, giving it a sleeker profile and more shapely rear end than the current model.

Inside, much of the car’s dash design will resemble that of the new 7 series, and it'll also get 48-volt electrical architecture to enable advanced autonomous driving systems. A self-steering mode will operate up to a pre-determined speed, and a sophisticated anti-collision system and fully autonomous braking will also be available.

See Photos here: http://myplanet-car.com/autonews.php?sid=256