The BMW M5 sports sedan originally launched in 2000. In its 11-year history, the last time BMW made any significant changes to it was for the 2010 model year. Wondering: Why the pause? Simple - BMW was utilizing the time to create the most powerful M5 of all time.

The forthcoming 2012 model, expected to go on sale early next year, is fitted with the model's first-ever turbocharged engine. Specifically, it will feature a 4.4-liter V8.

While the V8 is smaller than that of the engine fitted in last year's model, BMW estimates it will put out 560 horsepower and 500 lb.-ft. of torque, and jet from zero to 62 miles per hour in a lightning-speed 4.4 seconds.

You needn't have experienced power like that ever before to know it's enough to put your heart in your throat.  You'd think it would be deafening, too.  But, that's not the case. So, to give true power enthusiasts the most visceral experience possible, BMW has developed an out-of-the-box audio system that streams the throaty roar of the engine directly into the cabin via the stereo.

Specifically, BMW has integrated the M5's signal processor with the super sports sedan's engine management system.  This allows the audio system to then simulate the sound of a 550-plus-hp, twin-turbocharged V8 engine... Of course, you'll still be able to listen to and enjoy music, as well.

2012 BMW M5 At a Glance

-          Engine: 4.4-Liter V8
-          Horsepower: 560 hp
-          Torque: 500 lb.-ft
-          Top Speed: 186 miles per hour
-          Projected 0-62 MPH Acceleration Time: 4.4 seconds!
-          Wheels: 19-inches (standard), 20-inches (available)
-          Supple leather interior
-          HUD
-          Active and adaptive headlights
-          Lane departure warning system
-          And, as Car and Driver says, "...enough cameras to satisfy the Department of Homeland Security"¹

Be sure to stay tuned to learn even more about the new 2012 BMW M5. Sunbelt BMW, located at 2000 Highway 39 N in Meridian, MS, is dedicated to keeping you informed; and we expect more details on the M5 (i.e., pricing and options) closer to the car's early-2012 launch date. In the mean time, we invite you to come down and explore our expansive assortment of new BMW models in person. Or, if you prefer, you can always take a look online.

Source: ¹http://www.caranddriver.com/news/car/11q2/2012_bmw_m5-official_photos_and_info

  [INFO] http://www.caranddriver.com/news/car/11q2/2012_bmw_m5-official_photos_and_info http://www.inautonews.com/video-300kmh-in-the-new-2012-bmw-m5 http://www.topspeed.com/cars/bmw/2012-bmw-m5-ar100010.html http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-20111031-48/bmw-m5-generates-fake-engine-noise-using-stereo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/25/this-is-what-186-mph-in-a-2012-bmw-m5-looks-like/