BMW M5 Touring

Under the bonnet is a 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine producing 585 hp, coupled with a 197 hp electric motor integrated into the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission. This V8, equipped with two twin-scroll turbochargers, double VANOS and an optimised version of VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, features switchable exhaust rocker arms, reducing friction losses and improving energy recovery during braking.

The M Hybrid electric motor is powered by a 22.1 kWh lithium-ion battery located under the vehicle. It can be recharged in 2 hours and 15 minutes using an 11 kW AC charging station and in 11 hours and 45 minutes using a 2.3 kW domestic socket.

With a combined power output of 727 hp and an impressive torque of 1,000 Nm, the M5 Touring accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds. Its all-electric mode offers a range of around 70 km, ideal for urban journeys.

In terms of consumption, it is certified between 25.7 and 27.6 kWh/100 km in electric mode and between 1.7 and 2.0 L/100 km in the WLTP combined cycle. In hybrid or sporty driving, consumption naturally increases. However, with daily recharging and optimised driving, it is possible to achieve these figures in real-world use.

Chassis and handling: exemplary precision

The chassis of the M5 Touring is a true technological feat, combining rigidity and lightness thanks to the use of materials such as aluminium. At the front, a double-wishbone aluminium axle and, at the rear, a five-link lightweight steel axle with specific M aluminium components ensure optimum agility.

M Adaptive Damping Control with electronic controls adjusts the suspension in real time for optimum road contact. In high-speed corners, roll is minimal, improving stability and driving precision. Thanks to the Setup button, the damping can be adjusted between absolute comfort for long journeys and extreme rigidity for sporty driving. With a low centre of gravity and ideal 50/50 weight distribution, the M5 Touring offers remarkable handling despite its size.

M Servotronic steering assistance adapts to speed for precise road feedback. A key feature of this Touring is the active integral steering, which steers the rear wheels according to speed. At low speeds, they turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, reducing the turning circle for greater agility; at high speeds, they turn in the same direction, enhancing directional stability.

The M xDrive transmission optimises torque distribution between the axles. Three modes are available: 4WD: all-wheel drive; 4WD Sport: rear-biased all-wheel drive; and finally 2WD mode: rear-wheel drive, reserved for experienced drivers. Combined with this transmission, the M differential continuously adjusts the torque distribution between the rear wheels for increased traction and stability, especially when cornering.

Our test model is equipped with M Compound brakes with 6-piston fixed calipers at the front and 1-piston at the rear. The composite discs are ventilated and perforated, measuring 410 mm at the front and 398 mm at the rear. Although effective, this system shows its limitations in sporty driving due to the vehicle’s heavy weight. For the most demanding drivers, the M Carbon-Ceramic brake kit, priced at £8,500, should offer significantly greater endurance and braking power.

Aesthetics: a bold and refined look

The new BMW M5 Touring retains the dynamic and muscular lines characteristic of the M range. Its long bonnet and iconic double kidney grille, slightly enlarged and adorned with glossy black contours, are enhanced by BMW Iconic Glow lighting. Beneath this imposing grille, large air intakes ensure optimum cooling of the engine and battery.

The M Shadowline headlights, incorporating the characteristic four LED ‘eyes’, reinforce its modern and piercing look.

The widened wheel arches and black 20-inch light alloy wheels accentuate its athletic appearance. In profile, the sloping roofline, emphasised by a black spoiler and a refined window line on the rear quarter panel, gives the M5 Touring a sporty and racy estate car look.

The M mirror caps, designed to optimise aerodynamics, add a subtle touch of aggression.

The rear of the M5 Touring combines elegance and practicality. Its wider body, combined with refined lights, reinforces its presence on the road.

To complete this muscular look, a black diffuser incorporates the four black chrome M exhaust pipes, a signature feature of BMW’s high-performance models.

Interior: luxury and technology

As soon as you open the doors, BMW immerses you in a world of luxury. The sleek dashboard is dominated by a Curved Display that combines infotainment, driving data and a clear, well-organised head-up display. The customisable ambient lighting bar below the screen and the carbon fibre finishes on the dashboard accentuate the sporty feel of the interior.

The electric, ventilated M sports seats in Merino leather offer exceptional lateral support. The M steering wheel, equipped with perfectly positioned paddles, enhances the dynamic character of the driving experience. The anthracite Alcantara headliner is a testament to the care taken in the finish.

In terms of sound, the M5 Touring features a high-quality Bowers & Wilkins audio system, guaranteeing a premium sound experience.

In the rear, passengers enjoy generous space, enhanced by the presence of a panoramic roof, offering a feeling of openness and comfort. The spacious 500-litre boot, which can be expanded to 1,630 litres by folding down the rear seats, makes the M5 Touring a high-performance and versatile family car.

Fully configurable, the M5 Touring offers five driving modes. Dynamic: hybrid mode with balanced power distribution; Dynamic Plus: hybrid mode optimised for maximum propulsion; Hybrid: prioritises fuel consumption and range; Electric: allows 100% electric driving; and eControl: maintains or increases the battery charge through energy recovery.

Two customisable red buttons on the steering wheel, M1 and M2, allow you to save specific configurations that can be reused after each restart.

The M5 Touring is equipped with the latest driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, parking assist and a 360° camera, which is essential for manoeuvring this large vehicle (5.10 m long and 2.16 m wide).

Conclusion: the perfect balance

The BMW M5 Touring embodies the perfect balance between performance, luxury and versatility. Whether you’re tearing up the tarmac in sporty driving mode or comfortably transporting a family and their luggage, it sets the standard in the sports estate car category.