Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia
Retouched: The BMW M5 Receives a Facelift
Originally spied with a decidedly Neue Klasse frontend, the '28 model-year BMW M5 facelift has reverted to a more conventional aesthetic, with only a hint of Neue Klasse design remaining. Pictured in both sedan and Touring configurations, the mid-cycle refresh debuts slimmer headlight clusters and kidney grilles.
Emphasizing width, the new frontend also integrates a revised lower fascia with multiple vertical air intake elements. Both prototypes shown here also feature quad exhaust tips peeking through a resculpted bumper. New taillights are expected as well, and similar to the front units, the signature lighting emphasizes width.
Given the extensive interior camouflage, the Bavarian automaker is likely adapting the iX3’s infotainment system and Panoramic Vision setup for internal combustion models. Panoramic Vision is a projection system that uses the full width of the lower windshield to create a digital display space for both the driver and front passenger.
BMW Operating System X with Panoramic Vision is also expected to eliminate the iDrive controller in favor of a voice- and touch-first interface, along with more advanced steering wheel controls. The interior redesign should also include a larger, better-integrated central touchscreen, along with an optional 3D head-up display. An optional passenger display is also rumored.
Beyond the tech-heavy updates, the interior is expected to feature more premium materials and trim. Preliminary information suggests that production of the M5 Touring will continue through mid-2032 with V8 power. For the first model year of the facelift, new exterior colors are also reportedly planned.
S68 is BMW's codename for the 4.4-L engine powering the M5 Sedan and M5 Touring, an engine that recently lost a small amount of output in preparation for Euro 7 emissions regulations. The S68 used in U.S.-market vehicles has not lost any power. In Europe, however, BMW M has introduced updated electric drive and battery software to compensate for the reduced internal combustion output. The G90 sedan and G99 Touring produce a combined 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque in current form, with BMW claiming a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. When properly equipped, both models can reach a top speed of 189 mph.
Minor Facelift Outside, Modern Tech Under the Metal: The '26 Audi Q4 Facelift
The Audi Q4 facelift has been a long time coming, and photographers have finally captured this premium electric SUV completely uncamouflaged. While the exterior updates are noticeable, they are not the only changes.
Look closely: while the shape of the headlights remains the same, the internal design has been updated. Decals attempt to conceal the details, but the units now feature parallel horizontal LED daytime running light bars. Positioned below them are the low- and high-beam headlights.
Audi's designers have also covered the grille, which is expected to feature a new mesh pattern similar to that of the Q6 e-tron. The front bumper has also been revised with a cleaner design, retaining the license plate in the center and incorporating a new honeycomb mesh in the lower air intake.
At the rear, the Q4 will receive updated taillight graphics and a revised bumper design. The Q4 already features an advanced cockpit, so unless there is a surprise, it is not expected to adopt a large, curved digital display.
Despite the addition of new comfort and safety features, increased battery capacity and more powerful onboard chargers to reduce charging times, the facelifted 2026 Audi Q4 is expected to further challenge Tesla’s Model X. With relatively minor exterior updates, Audi is focusing on a comprehensive package of improvements that will also extend to the sportier Q4 Sportback. Both variants are expected to arrive at dealerships in mid-2026.
