BMW M5 Touring: The Return of a Supercar-Baiting Super-Estate
The BMW M5 Touring is back, and it’s better than ever. This high-performance wagon hasn’t been seen since the V10-engined ‘E61’ model left the scene in 2010. But now, the new ‘G99’ iteration is making a grand entrance with a V8-engined plug-in hybrid powertrain that delivers a whopping 717bhp. With a peak torque of 738lb ft, the M5 Touring can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 3.6 seconds, and it has a top speed of 189mph. These numbers put it in the same league as supercars, making it a force to be reckoned with on the road.
One of the standout features of the M5 Touring is its spaciousness. It offers a generous 1630 litres of seats-down boot space, making it a practical choice for those who need to haul a lot of cargo. This is especially impressive considering the car’s weight, which comes in at a hefty 2.5 tonnes. While this weight may seem like a disadvantage, it is offset by the car’s electrified powertrain, which includes an 18.6kWh battery. This battery gives the M5 Touring a class-leading 42 miles of electric-only range, making it an efficient option for daily commuting.
However, the weight of the M5 Touring does pose a challenge when it comes to performance. Despite its impressive power output, it is matched and even surpassed by less powerful and lighter rivals, such as the Audi RS6 Avant Performance and the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance. These cars are able to achieve similar acceleration times while being more nimble on the road. Nevertheless, the M5 Touring compensates for its weight with its luxurious features and cutting-edge technology.
To accommodate the new powertrain and the car’s larger size, BMW has made several enhancements to the M5 Touring’s chassis. The suspension, steering, and structural components have all been upgraded, resulting in a more refined and dynamic driving experience. The car is equipped with adaptive suspension, four-wheel steering, and a bespoke M differential as standard. Inside the cabin, the M5 Touring resembles its saloon sibling, featuring bucket seats, carbon fibre trim, and BMW’s Curved Display powered by an upgraded iDrive system.
The BMW M5 Touring made its debut during the Monterey Car Week in California, marking the third iteration of this iconic super-estate. It follows in the footsteps of the BMW M3 Touring, which was introduced last year. This is the first time that BMW has offered two different super estates, showcasing the brand’s commitment to providing a diverse range of high-performance options for enthusiasts.
The pricing for the M5 Touring starts at £112,500, which is only a slight increase compared to the standard M5. UK deliveries are set to begin in early 2025, giving fans of the brand something to look forward to. With its powerful hybrid powertrain, spacious interior, and advanced features, the BMW M5 Touring is poised to make a lasting impression in the world of high-performance wagons. It combines the best of both worlds, offering thrilling performance and practicality in one stylish package.
