BMW's M5 wagon returns to the U.S. at long last
For this privilege, you'll need to shell out $122,675.
The M5 Touring delivers 717 hp and has the potential for 25 miles of electric range.
Following the unveiling of the new M5 sedan in June, BMW has now introduced the new M5 Touring wagon that was revealed on Thursday at 2024 Monterey Car Week.
Both body styles will launch late this year as 2025 models, with the sedan starting at $120,675 and the wagon commanding a $2,000 premium. Both figures include a $1,175 destination fee.
There have been M5 Tourings before, but this is the first generation offered in the U.S. The earlier examples were the late 1980s/early '90s E34 generation and the '00s E60 generation.
BMW hasn't pulled any surprises with the design of the latest M5 Touring. The design largely matches the sedan from the front to the C-pillar, after which the roof remains flatter toward the rear of the car. This results in extra storage space at the back, with BMW claiming 17.7 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 57.6 cubic feet when folded flat.
While both body styles share the same length and wheelbase, measuring 200.6 inches and 118.3 inches respectively, there's a slight weight penalty with the wagon. BMW quotes a curb weight of 5,530 pounds, compared to the sedan's 5,390 pounds. The difference is negligible as both figures are on the heavy side. We're looking at weights similar to EVs and full-size SUVs.
Much of the weight gain is due to the plug-in hybrid component of the powertrain. It uses the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 from the previous M5 and pairs it with a single electric motor integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers a total of 717 hp, and an onboard battery with a usable 14.8 kWh means a pure electric range of around 25 miles is possible, according to BMW.
An all-wheel-drive system comes standard. BMW claims this system is lighter and more efficient than what was found in the previous M5. It still retains a rear-biased setup, and this rear bias can be dialed up further by selecting a 4WD Sport mode. For enthusiasts of rear-wheel dynamics, a rear-wheel-drive mode can also be selected, but only with the stability control switched off.
The performance, at least in a straight line, is nothing to sneeze at. BMW quotes a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds (3.4 seconds for the sedan) and a top speed of 155 mph as standard, with the M Driver's Package pushing it to 190 mph.
To bring this big beast to a stop, BMW relies on 6-piston brake calipers clamping down on 16.1-inch rotors up front, and single-piston floating calipers at the rear with 15.7-inch rotors. These are housed within 20-inch wheels and 285/40-size tires at the front and 21-inch wheels and 295/35-size tires at the rear. Carbon-ceramic brakes are available, helping to save around 55 pounds while delivering stronger stopping power.
The interior features multiple unique elements specific to the M5, such as the graphics in the digital gauge cluster, infotainment system, and head-up display, along with the ambient lighting package and various trim options. Several premium features are included as standard, including an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a long panoramic roof with an electronically controlled roller blind.
When the M5 Touring hits showrooms, there won't be much in the way of direct competition. Mercedes-Benz AMG no longer offers an E 63 Wagon and Audi's current RS 6 Avant is also on its way out. However, a direct successor to the RS 6 Avant, likely to be badged an RS 7 Avant, is in the works.
BMW also offers an M3 Touring. It debuted in 2022 with 503 hp, but its sale has been ruled out for the U.S.
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