BMW 5 Series wagon makes incognito grocery run by way of the 'Ring [UPDATE]

UPDATE: The 5 Series prototype seen in these photos is previewing a new generation of wagon for the model, not simply a mid-cycle refresh. The text has been updated to reflect this.

With a debut in 2009, it's high time that BMW delivered the world with the next generation of its popular 5 Series. While we aren't expecting to see it here in the United States, that changeover will include the vehicle shown above, the 5 Series wagon.

This is only the second time we've spotted the camo'd, long-roof 5er in the past year, and while it was chained to a flat-bed in those snaps, today, we can see it lapping the Nürburgring. In addition to the images from the track, we also have our first look at the cabin of the 5 Series, although even it is covered in camouflage, making it quite difficult to spot anything of substance.

As for the exterior, expect modest changes for the new 5er, with typical tweaks like new headlights and taillights, and perhaps a freshened front fascia. Considering we last saw the upcoming 5 Series just over a year ago, we'd expect an auto show debut for this smoothed-over model in the not-so-distant future, with Paris a leading candidate.

Take a look up top for our full gallery of spy photos.