BMW ‘M’ switching to turbos? 2011 BMW M5 may get twin-turbo V8

BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer has previously said that its ‘M’ division is seriously considerings using fewer cylinders in its future high-performance M lineup. Well some of those future high-performance M cars may end up getting turbo-boosted engines

We highly doubt BMW will drop the new 414-hp V8 that just debuted in the new 2008 BMW M3. But insiders say the massive naturally aspirated V10 will be dropped for a twin-turbo V8 instead. The 4.4 liter V8 that powers the X6 xDrive50i is currently being tested and is producing “400 kW (536hp) and more of output,” an insider said.

The next-generation M5 will make its debut as a 2011 model year. Sources have previously said that direct-injection technology and turbocharged engines will be incorporated with the EfficientDynamics program to reduce fuel-economy of the new M5 while increasing its fuel-efficiency. The car is also expected to get BMW’s new 7-speed M DCT dual-clutch transmission.

Photo Renderings: 2010 BMW 5-Series:

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)