Once again, our spy photographers have snapped up a few spyshots->ke166 of the 2018 BMW M5. This time around, however, our carparazzi didn’t catch it testing its new all-wheel-drive system in the snow. Instead, it caught the test mule out stretching its legs in the Munich sunshine.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much to see from these new shots, but we do get a nice look at the quad exhaust pipes – a telltale sign that this is an M5->ke2922 mule. Also giving it away as an M5 was the sound coming from those pipes. Unfortunately, there is no video,->ke278 so we can only go by what our spy shooters told us they heard.

An odd twist to this M5 is that there is an extra fuel cap on the left front fender, which is typically only present on a plug-in hybrid->ke4486 model. Before you traditionalists start storming the BMW->ke178 offices over a possible M5 hybrid,->ke147 allow me to pass on that or spy photographers have seen this on several non-hybrid 5er->ke317 mules. Chances are that BMW is recycling body panels, and the fuel cap just happened to be on the panel it borrowed for this mule.

Under the hood of the new M5, look for a retuned version of the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 with around 600 horsepower. As I mentioned earlier, the 2018 BMW M5 will likely be the first of its kind to have available all-wheel drive.

Continue reading for more details on the 2018 BMW M5.

Why it matters

By the time the 2018 BMW M5 hits the market, the new design language for the 5er will be on its way. This means a slightly forward-leaning kidney grille, to-the-grille headlights, more aggressive lines, and most of all about 150 pounds of weight loss thanks to high-strength steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber.

With all of that weight loss, am updated engine lineup, and xDrive all-wheel drive, the upcoming Mercedes-AMG E63 may be in for some trouble.

2018 BMW M5 xDrive - spy shots

Read our full review here.