BMW’s M5 Touring, the high-powered wagon version of its iconic M5, is quickly emerging as one of the brand’s most unexpectedly sought-after vehicles. Initially projected to occupy a niche segment, the M5 Touring is instead matching its sedan counterpart in popularity, prompting a reevaluation of production expectations.
Sylvia Neubauer, Vice President of Customer, Brand, and Sales at BMW M, revealed in an interview with BMW Blog that the company initially expected the M5 sedan to account for two-thirds of global orders, with the Touring model making up the remaining third. But early customer demand has flipped that ratio, with current orders now evenly split between the sedan and wagon.
This is especially significant considering that the 2025 M5 Touring marks the first time this body style is available in the U.S. Historically, BMW has limited the M5 Touring to European markets and only in small batches. The introduction of this model to North America has been met with enthusiasm by wagon fans who long admired previous M Touring models from afar.
Priced from $125,275, the 2025 M5 Touring blends traditional BMW luxury with sports car performance and everyday usability. Under the hood lies a hybridized twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers jaw-dropping power and performance comparable to muscle-bound rivals like the Dodge Charger Hellcat.
Performance options abound. The $2,500 M Driver’s Package raises the top speed and grants access to a high-performance driving course, while the $900 M Drive Professional option adds racetrack-focused features such as M Boost and M Laptimer. Drivers can further fine-tune traction with the ten-stage M Traction Control system.
Luxury features are just as customizable. Heated front and rear seats, ventilated front seats, an interior camera, and Parking Assistant Plus are all included in the $1,600 Executive Package, which also features illuminated kidney grilles. Safety tech such as Active Driving Assist can be added for $650, or buyers can step up to the $1,700 Driving Assistance Professional package for enhanced semi-autonomous driving support.
BMW’s customization continues with aesthetics and performance. Shoppers can choose between black or red brake calipers for free, while top-tier M Carbon Ceramic Brakes are available for $8,500 for those looking to maximize braking performance.
For more traditionalists, the M5 sedan remains available starting at $123,275. But for only $2,000 more, many are opting for the Touring’s additional cargo space and visual distinction, giving it an edge among buyers looking for both practicality and power.
The rising demand for the M5 Touring highlights an interesting shift in the automotive market. While SUVs continue to dominate, especially in the U.S., there is clearly still a place for high-performance wagons. These vehicles offer a unique blend of versatility and excitement, carving out a niche for drivers who crave utility without sacrificing performance.
BMW, known for its careful market calculations, appears genuinely surprised by the M5 Touring’s success. The company may now need to adjust production to meet the stronger-than-anticipated interest.
As more automakers explore performance-oriented alternatives to SUVs, the M5 Touring’s reception could be a sign of changing tides. Enthusiasts are embracing vehicles that break the mold—and BMW’s long-roof rocket is leading the charge.
