The Return of the BMW M5 Touring: A New Era for High-Performance Wagons
BMW enthusiasts and performance car aficionados have a lot to look forward to as the iconic automaker is set to launch the new M5 Touring. This marks only the third time in the history of the 5-Series that BMW has introduced an M5 wagon. The last M5 Touring was the E60-generation model from the 2000s. The upcoming M5 Touring, along with the new M5 sedan, is confirmed for a U.S. debut as a 2025 model. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated high-performance wagon.
BMW M5 Touring: A Sneak Peek into the Future
The prototypes of the 2025 BMW M5 Touring have been spotted during testing, and they are already creating a buzz. While they may resemble the regular 5-Series Touring models at first glance, a closer look reveals the distinctive M design elements. The enhanced fenders, quad-exhaust tips, and large wheel and brake package are telltale signs of the M5 Touring’s performance pedigree. These features ensure that the M5 Touring stands out as a high-performance vehicle in its own right.
Electrified Powertrain: Combining Power and Efficiency
One of the most exciting aspects of the new M5 Touring is its electrified powertrain. The prototypes feature yellow warning stickers, indicating the presence of an electrified system. This setup is expected to include a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine paired with a single electric motor, delivering a combined output of over 700 horsepower. This powerful combination is similar to the setup found in the 2023 XM SUV, which offers up to 738 horsepower in its top-tier XM Label Red variant.
Performance Meets Practicality: The Ideal High-Performance Wagon
The M5 Touring is designed to offer the perfect blend of performance and practicality. With its spacious wagon body style, it provides ample cargo space and versatility, making it a practical choice for everyday use. At the same time, its powerful engine and advanced drivetrain ensure that it delivers the exhilarating performance that BMW M cars are known for. This makes the M5 Touring an ideal vehicle for those who want a high-performance car without compromising on practicality.
BMW i5: The Electric Alternative
For those who prefer electric power, BMW also offers the new 5-Series in an electric variant known as the i5. The i5 can be ordered in the i5 M60 xDrive grade, which features a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup capable of producing 590 horsepower. This electric option provides a performance-oriented alternative for eco-conscious drivers. Although the i5 M60 xDrive Touring wagon is available, it is not expected to be offered in the U.S. market.
The Future of BMW M: Electric Powertrains on the Horizon
BMW M is not just stopping at hybrid powertrains; the future holds even more exciting developments. The company has been testing a four-motor electric powertrain, indicating that fully electric M cars are in the pipeline. While the timing of these releases is still uncertain, there are rumors that the new M5 might offer an all-electric powertrain option at some point during its lifecycle. This move aligns with BMW’s broader strategy of integrating electric powertrains across its lineup.
Limited Competition: The M5 Touring’s Unique Market Position
When it arrives, the BMW M5 Touring will have a unique position in the market, with limited direct competition. Mercedes-Benz AMG has discontinued the E 63 Wagon in the U.S., and Audi’s current RS 6 Avant is also nearing the end of its production cycle. While a successor to the RS 6 Avant, potentially badged as the RS 7 Avant, is in the works, it has not yet been confirmed for the U.S. market. Audi is also developing a smaller RS 5 Avant, but its availability in the U.S. remains uncertain. This lack of direct competition makes the M5 Touring a highly anticipated and exclusive offering for performance wagon enthusiasts.
BMW M3 Touring: A Missed Opportunity for the U.S. Market
While BMW fans in Europe have had the pleasure of driving the M3 Touring since its release in 2022, this model has been ruled out for the U.S. market. The M3 Touring offers a more compact and agile alternative to the larger M5 Touring, but unfortunately, it won’t be available to American buyers. This decision underscores the exclusivity of the M5 Touring in the U.S. market, making it a must-have for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance wagon.
Conclusion: Anticipation Builds for the 2025 BMW M5 Touring
The upcoming 2025 BMW M5 Touring promises to be a game-changer in the world of high-performance wagons. With its powerful electrified powertrain, distinctive M design elements, and practical wagon body style, it offers a unique blend of performance and versatility. The limited competition in the market further enhances its appeal, making it a highly anticipated model among BMW enthusiasts and performance car fans.
As BMW continues to innovate and integrate electrified powertrains into its lineup, the future looks bright for the M division. Whether you’re a fan of traditional high-performance engines or excited about the potential of electric powertrains, the new M5 Touring is sure to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the official debut of this groundbreaking vehicle.
