The Ultimate Driving Wagon: BMW Unleashes the M5 Touring in North America
Jo-Carolyn Goode | 8/15/2024, 2:09 p.m.
**The Ultimate Driving Wagon: BMW Unleashes the M5 Touring in North America**
BMW has once again redefined the boundaries of luxury performance with the introduction of the 2024 BMW M5 Touring, marking the first time this high-performance wagon is available in the United States. This isn’t just any station wagon—this is a BMW M5, engineered to thrill and built to impress.
Power Meets Practicality
At the heart of the new M5 Touring lies the M Hybrid drivetrain, a beastly combination that churns out an astonishing 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Whether you’re dominating the track or cruising the open road, this plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers adrenaline-pumping performance while offering the convenience of almost silent, emission-free driving for up to 25 miles on electric power alone. This duality of power and efficiency is a nod to BMW's commitment to innovation, seamlessly blending race-bred performance with everyday usability.
Design That Speaks Volumes
The M5 Touring’s design is a masterclass in athletic elegance. With its flared wheel arches, sculpted side skirts, and the iconic M-specific front and rear aprons, this wagon commands attention from every angle. The newly designed BMW M kidney grille, flanked by standard M Shadowline Full LED Headlights, anchors the aggressive front end, while the prominent rear spoiler and pronounced wheel arches enhance its muscular stance. And let's not forget the quad exhausts—because no one should have any doubts about the power lurking beneath the hood.
A Legacy of Performance
BMW’s Touring variants have always held a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. First introduced in 1992 alongside the E34 M5 sedan and followed by the E61 in 2007, the M5 Touring has been the epitome of performance and practicality. Now, in its third iteration, the 2024 M5 Touring is set to make its North American debut at the prestigious Pebble Beach Automotive Week on August 15. Built alongside the M5 sedan at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, this powerhouse wagon will hit global markets in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Advanced Aerodynamics and Engineering
From its large air intakes to the aerodynamically optimized M exterior mirror caps, every detail of the M5 Touring is designed with performance in mind. The broad rear end, with its monolithic surface treatment and integrated roof spoiler, not only enhances its aggressive look but also improves aerodynamics. The standard M alloy wheels, with their staggered dimensions—20 inches in the front and 21 inches in the rear—ensure impeccable cornering stability, while the choice of performance or high-performance tires means you’re ready for any driving challenge.
Electrified Performance
Under the hood, the M5 Touring boasts a 4.4-liter V8 engine coupled with an electric motor, a combination that echoes the technology found in BMW’s M Hybrid V8 race car. This powertrain, capable of delivering a 0-60 mph sprint in an estimated 3.5 seconds, isn’t just about raw power—it’s about precision, efficiency, and sustainability. The V8 engine’s high-revving character is complemented by M TwinPower Turbo technology, resulting in a maximum output of 577 horsepower at 7,200 rpm. Paired with the electric motor, this wagon is as quick off the line as it is fuel-efficient, making it a true performer in every sense.
A Feast for the Eyes
Customization is key with the M5 Touring. BMW offers ten expressive exterior paint options, including exclusive M variants like Isle of Man Green metallic and Marina Bay Blue metallic. For those who demand even more exclusivity, BMW Individual special paint finishes are available from the moment you place your order.
The 2024 BMW M5 Touring isn’t just a car—it’s a statement. It’s for those who refuse to compromise on performance, luxury, or practicality. With its combination of race-proven technology, cutting-edge design, and everyday usability, the M5 Touring is set to redefine what it means to drive a performance wagon in North America. Whether you’re a longtime BMW enthusiast or a newcomer to the brand, the M5 Touring promises an unparalleled driving experience that’s both electrifying and efficient, all wrapped up in a package that’s as practical as it is powerful.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this engineering marvel at Pebble Beach—and prepare to be captivated by what might just be the ultimate driving machine.
BMW M5 Touring: A Powerhouse of Innovation, Speed, and Sustainability
In the realm of automotive excellence, the new BMW M5 Touring is a masterpiece that blends cutting-edge technology with relentless performance. This high-performance vehicle, equipped with the M Hybrid system, redefines what it means to drive a luxury sports car in today’s world, offering instantaneous power delivery and a driving experience that is nothing short of exhilarating.
The Heart of Power: M Hybrid System
At the core of the BMW M5 Touring is the M Hybrid system, a marvel of engineering that seamlessly integrates an electric motor into the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission. This system, designed for both weight and space efficiency, delivers an astounding 194 horsepower and up to 207 lb-ft of torque. But BMW doesn’t stop there. Thanks to a patented pre-gearing stage, the motor’s torque can surge to a jaw-dropping 332 lb-ft at the transmission input, offering a propulsive power usually reserved for much larger engines.
This is not just about raw power; it’s about intelligent design. The electric motor’s power delivery is accompanied by the M Sound, a signature acoustic experience that responds intuitively to every movement of the accelerator, whether you’re cruising in all-electric mode or tapping into the full might of the V8 engine.
Advanced Battery Technology for the Modern Driver
The BMW M5 Touring is as much about efficiency as it is about power. The high-voltage lithium-ion battery, part of BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive technology, is strategically installed in the vehicle’s underbody. This placement not only saves space but also lowers the car’s center of gravity, enhancing its agile handling. With 14.8 kWh of usable energy, this battery ensures that the vehicle can perform at its peak while also maintaining impressive efficiency.
The M Hybrid system’s power electronics work in tandem with the battery, ensuring that the electric motor provides a seamless boost when needed. Under steady driving conditions, the electric motor supports the combustion engine, reducing fuel consumption without sacrificing performance.
Charging the M5 Touring is as advanced as its driving capabilities. The Combined Charging Unit supports AC charging up to 11 kW and optimizes charging times with intelligent heat management. This system not only monitors external factors like temperature and battery levels but also predicts charging power and adjusts accordingly to ensure maximum efficiency and safety.
Precision Cooling and Robust Performance
Performance at this level demands precise cooling, and the BMW M5 Touring delivers. Its integrated cooling system is designed to meet the demands of both everyday driving and high-intensity track sessions. Large air intakes, generously sized heat exchangers, and a sophisticated temperature control system ensure that the combustion engine, transmission, and battery remain at optimal operating temperatures, even under extreme conditions.
Adding to its high-performance credentials, the M5 Touring features a specific powertrain mounting that enhances the car’s rigidity, allowing for instant power delivery to the road. Whether you’re accelerating out of a corner or cruising down the highway, the M5 Touring responds with precision and agility.
Dynamic Transmission and Driving Modes
The 8-speed M Steptronic transmission in the BMW M5 Touring is a marvel of versatility, allowing drivers to switch between comfort, efficiency, and outright performance. The transmission’s Drivelogic settings offer three distinct driving modes, from relaxed cruising to aggressive track performance.
A standout feature is the Boost Control function, which unleashes a burst of speed when you need it most. Whether you’re overtaking on the highway or accelerating out of a tight corner, the M5 Touring’s powertrain delivers an immediate and forceful response, propelling you forward with authority.
Drivers also have the luxury of choosing from up to five operating modes that adjust the interaction between the combustion engine and the electric motor. From the default HYBRID mode, which balances power and efficiency, to the all-electric ELECTRIC mode for emission-free driving, the M5 Touring adapts to your every need. For those who demand the ultimate performance, the optional DYNAMIC and DYNAMIC PLUS modes condition the system for track driving, ensuring that the M5 Touring is always ready to perform at its best.
Unrivaled Control with M xDrive and Active M Differential
Power is nothing without control, and the BMW M5 Touring delivers with its M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. This system ensures that power is distributed precisely where it’s needed, whether you’re navigating a slick city street or powering through a tight corner on the track. The Active M Differential further enhances the vehicle’s agility by distributing torque between the left and right rear wheels, ensuring that the M5 Touring stays planted and stable even in the most challenging driving conditions.
In conclusion, the new BMW M5 Touring is not just a car; it’s a statement. A statement that power, efficiency, and innovation can coexist in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for that next adrenaline rush or a technology enthusiast who appreciates the finer details of automotive engineering, the M5 Touring offers an experience that is both electrifying and refined. Buckle up, Houston—this is driving redefined.
The Ultimate Fusion of Power and Precision: The New BMW M5 Touring
Get ready to experience the dual persona of the new BMW M5 Touring—a marvel of automotive engineering that masterfully blends track-ready performance with everyday practicality. This latest addition to BMW's M series redefines driving dynamics, offering both adrenaline-pumping thrills and long-distance comfort in one sleek package.
Chassis and Dynamics: A Symphony of Balance and Strength
At the heart of the BMW M5 Touring’s exceptional performance lies its meticulously engineered chassis. The long wheelbase, wide tracks, and a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution work in harmony to create a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. The M5’s low center of gravity and enhanced aerodynamics further contribute to its impeccable road manners, ensuring that every twist and turn is met with unmatched stability and precision.
BMW has fortified the M5 Touring’s body structure with M-specific bracing elements that increase torsional rigidity. This includes a front shear panel connecting the spring strut towers with the bulkhead, and model-specific tower-to-front end struts. At the rear, the underfloor bracing and luggage compartment stiffening elements ensure that the M5 Touring maintains its composure even under the most demanding conditions.
Advanced Chassis Technology: Where Comfort Meets Control
The M5 Touring is not just about raw power; it's about delivering that power in a way that is both thrilling and controlled. The double-wishbone front axle, combined with the five-link rear axle, offers an impeccable blend of agility and comfort. The use of lightweight aluminum components reduces unsprung mass, enhancing the car’s responsiveness and ensuring a smoother ride. Whether you're carving through mountain roads or cruising on the highway, the M5 Touring's chassis is tuned to perfection.
Steering and Suspension: Precision at Your Fingertips
The M Servotronic steering system, standard in the M5 Touring, combines speed-sensitive power assistance with a variable steering ratio. This means that whether you're navigating tight city streets or opening up on the highway, the steering remains responsive and intuitive. The rear wheels can turn up to 1.5° in the opposite direction to the front wheels at low speeds, reducing the turning circle, while at higher speeds, they turn in the same direction to enhance stability and cornering dynamics.
Adding to the driving experience is the Adaptive M suspension, which features electronically controlled dampers. These adjust in real-time to road conditions, minimizing body roll and ensuring that the M5 Touring remains firmly planted, regardless of the driving scenario. With customizable settings available through the M Setup menu, drivers can tailor the suspension to their preference—ranging from a cushioned ride to a track-focused setup.
Braking Power and Control: Stopping with Confidence
The integrated braking system of the BMW M5 Touring combines brake activation, boosting, and control into a single unit, delivering precise stopping power. Standard M Compound brakes, or optional M Carbon ceramic brakes, offer exceptional performance. The M Carbon brakes, in particular, reduce weight by 55 lbs., increase braking power, and resist wear, making them ideal for both spirited driving and long-distance travel.
Intelligent Networking: Enhanced Dynamics and Safety
BMW's advanced driver assistance systems are enhanced by intelligent networking, ensuring that the M5 Touring responds quickly and accurately to driving conditions. The near-actuator wheel slip limitation technology provides enhanced traction control, especially in challenging conditions like wet or icy roads. This system, combined with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), ensures that the M5 Touring maintains its poise even when pushed to its limits.
Luxury and Innovation Inside
Inside, the M5 Touring’s cockpit is a blend of luxury and sportiness. The M leather steering wheel, with its multifunction buttons and gearshift paddles, offers a tactile connection to the car, while the M-specific control panel allows for easy access to vehicle settings. The standard M Multifunction Seats, available in a range of leather trims, provide both comfort and support, making long journeys as enjoyable as quick sprints.
The interior lighting, including the BMW Interaction Bar and ambient lighting, adds to the exclusive atmosphere, while the standard Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of space and luxury.
Final Thoughts
The new BMW M5 Touring is more than just a high-performance vehicle; it’s a versatile masterpiece that caters to both the driving enthusiast and the luxury aficionado. With its perfect blend of power, precision, and practicality, the M5 Touring sets a new benchmark in the world of performance wagons. Whether on the track, the open road, or the daily commute, the M5 Touring delivers an experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.