Just last week, our spies caught the upcoming BMW 5 Series facelift being tested. However, the prototype was a 5 Series Touring model, which sadly won't be sold in the US. Luckily, the sedan version has now been spotted, giving us a first look at the US-bound BMW 5 Series facelift. The front end is covered up with camo, suggesting there will be major changes. BMW could be hiding another humungous kidney grille akin to the 7 Series.
This wouldn't be too surprising since a BMW M3 prototype shown in recent spy shots also appeared to have a larger grille than its predecessor. Elsewhere, we can expect other typical mid-cycle facelift changes such as a redesigned front bumper and revised headlights. At the back, we can expect new taillight graphics and changes to the rear bumper.
As with the updated Touring prototype, this 5 Series Sedan prototype has some new hybrid tech under the hood. How do we know? Well, the "Hybrid Test Vehicle" sticker on the side is an obvious giveaway. Our sources tell us a 545e xDrive model will join the lineup utilizing a detuned version of the engine found in the 745e xDrive iPerformance. Whereas the 7 Series uses a hybrid drivetrain and 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine to produce a combined output of 389 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, the new 5 Series hybrid is expected to be detuned to around 375 hp.
Unfortunately, our spies were unable to capture any shots of the interior. Chances are the updated 5 Series will sport a new digital instrument cluster and iDrive infotainment system to match BMW's other current models. The current BMW 5 Series has only been on sale since 2017, so the new facelifted model isn't expected to break cover until late 2020 or possibly early 2021.
In the meantime, BMW recently confirmed that the 2020 BMW M550i will be getting an updated N63 engine from the 8 Series producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque when it goes on sale this month. This means the facelifted model will get the same power upgrade.