It's been several months since we last discussed the topic of an all wheel drive M5. The last update we posted was
news from Autocar claiming that an AWD version of the M5 had been approved.
Speaking at the new M5's press launch in Spain, the F10 M5's project leader, Max Ahme, touched on this subject. Although he did not confirm the approval of a AWD M5 already, he did let on about its very real possibility.
As M cars' power figures continue to climb generation after generation and proper traction becomes an issue, Ahme admits that AWD transmissions may be the solution to effectively put down all the power to the ground.
Ahme admits that BMW is "thinking about it... If you are increasing power more and more, maybe you need it." However, he also admits that the AWD solution is not without its downsides -- "It's a good idea, but it would add 120 kg to the front of the car – and it's over the front axle."
What form of AWD would BMW M employ? Ahme mentions that the company has already studied the Ferrari FF's lightweight AWD solution, but will more likely use a traditional AWD system.
M Division Product Management chief Jorg Herrmann also admits that BMW M is looking at whatever means it needs to get the job done, regardless of tradition.
"If technology changes over time the character of this model had to be changed and evolve," he said.
No worries for the traditionalists, any AWD F10 M5 model would likely be offered in addition to the standard traditional RWD M5.
Source:
Brisbane Times