The upcoming BMW M5 was seen lapping the Nürburgring...on a trailer.

It's not clear what happened to the prototype, but this is exactly why automakers do extensive testing before any car reaches a showroom. In the background of one of the photos, you can see a billboard advertising the older M5 functioning as the "Ring-Taxi."

A revised front fascia on this tester suggests the M5 will adopt styling consistent with the M3 and other M cars. Larger wheels, brakes, and Michelin tires are clearly visible from these photos. Four exhaust pipes make a distinct impression out back.

The M5 will likely be powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8. In the X5 M, it produces 555 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. The outgoing M5 is powered by a V-10 engine good for 500 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque.

Production on the 2010 M5 ended in July and there's no word yet on when the more powerful and efficient M5, like the one pictured here, will debut in the U.S. We anticipate a starting price in the high $80,000 range.

Source: Motortrend

 

X5 4.6is looks better than the new M suv's.

 

it's gonna look great in black. love the wheels too.

 

I think I need to change my pants... be right back.

 

Nothing is wrong with the M5... M engineers were testing the handling-while-towing capabilities of the X5. It did a 7:29.