BMW to unveil M5 concept at Shanghai auto show
The BMW M5 concept will make its global debut at the Shanghai auto show, another indication of China's growing importance for international luxury brands.
The high-performance rear-wheel drive sedan is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4 liter V-8 engine mated to a seven-speed double-clutch transmission. BMW posted news of the introduction on its Web site.
According to the U.S. enthusiast publication AutoWeek, the powertrain should generate 560 hp.
BMW also plans the global debut of its 6 Series two-plus-two coupe. The coupe will be powered by a 4.4 liter, eight-cylinder engine that generates 407 hp.
A six-cylinder, 320 hp engine also will be available. Both engines will be mated to a standard eight-speed automatic transmission.
BMW also plans to unveil a hybrid-powered version of its long-wheel-base 5 series sedan, which is only available in China.
China is a crucial growth market for BMW. Last year, the automaker made a record profit and increased sales by 87 percent to 183,328 units.
China is BMW's third largest market, behind Germany and the United States.
