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The 2025 BMW M5 Touring delivers 717 horsepower through an innovative plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain, sprints to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, and offers up to 25 miles of electric-only driving[1]. Despite tipping the scales at nearly 5,500 pounds, this super-wagon combines supercar acceleration with genuine practicality, making it a compelling alternative to performance SUVs and the Audi RS6 Avant Performance.
Overview: Why This Car Matters
The M5 Touring marks a historic moment for BMW enthusiasts in America. After decades of exclusion, the U.S. market finally receives an M5 wagon, competing directly with the Audi RS6 Avant that previously had the high-performance wagon segment largely to itself[2]. Unlike Audi’s approach with a traditional twin-turbo V8, BMW took a bold step by electrifying the M5 Touring with a plug-in hybrid system that prioritizes both performance and short-range electric capability[3].
This generation represents a fundamental shift in how BMW approaches the M5 formula. The hybrid system adds significant weight, but the instant torque from the electric motor transforms the driving experience, making power delivery smoother and more immediate than any previous M5[4]. For buyers seeking a vehicle that can handle daily commutes in EV mode and then tackle a track day, the M5 Touring presents a unique proposition.
Comparison Table
| Criteria | 2025 BMW M5 Touring | 2025 Audi RS6 Avant Performance | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $125,275[1] | ~$128,000[5] | BMW |
| Horsepower | 717 hp[2] | 621 hp[5] | BMW |
| Torque | 738 lb-ft[2] | 627 lb-ft[5] | BMW |
| 0-60 mph | 3.4 seconds[5] | 3.3 seconds[5] | Audi |
| Quarter-Mile | 11.3 sec @ 124.7 mph[5] | 11.3 sec @ 121.5 mph[5] | Tie |
| Braking (60-0 mph) | 105-112 feet[5][6] | 101 feet[6] | Audi |
| Curb Weight | ~5,500 lbs[5] | ~4,900 lbs[5] | Audi |
| EV Range | ~25 miles[2] | N/A | BMW |
Design and Practicality
Exterior
The M5 Touring adopts BMW’s current aggressive design language, featuring prominent kidney grilles and sculpted bodywork that some find divisive[4]. Quad exhaust tips, flared fenders, and available carbon fiber accents distinguish this wagon from the standard 5 Series. The long roof adds utility without compromising the muscular stance.
Interior
Inside, the M5 Touring features a 14.9-inch curved touchscreen display running BMW’s iDrive 8 system, Merino leather upholstery, and an available Executive Package with enhanced comfort features[3]. Some testers noted the interior can feel “unnecessarily fussy” with too many touch-based controls replacing traditional buttons[4]. The audio system delivers exceptional sound quality, and adaptive cruise control with lane centering works smoothly for highway cruising[7].
Cargo Space
Practicality defines the Touring’s appeal: 27 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats expands to approximately 58 cubic feet with the rear seats folded[2][3]. The rear hatch provides easier loading access than performance SUVs, and the lower load floor simplifies handling heavy items.
Performance and Efficiency
Powertrain
The heart of the M5 Touring combines a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 producing 577 horsepower with a 194-hp electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission[5]. A 14.8-kWh battery pack enables pure electric driving. Combined output reaches 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, routed through an all-wheel-drive system with a rear-biased power distribution[2].
In testing by Car and Driver, the M5 Touring achieved a quarter-mile time of 11.0 seconds at 129 mph[2]. The optional $2,500 M Driver’s Package raises the electronically limited top speed to 190 mph[2].
Driving Experience
On twisting mountain roads, the M5 Touring defies its considerable mass. Road and Track testers described the experience as “supercar fast” with excellent steering feedback and natural weight[4]. The 4WD Sport mode enables controlled oversteer while maintaining a safety net appropriate for a vehicle weighing nearly three tons[4].
MotorTrend’s comparison test awarded first place to the M5 Touring over the RS6 Avant Performance, citing superior handling balance and polish despite the BMW’s weight disadvantage[6]. The ride quality remains surprisingly compliant for a performance vehicle, though some cabin boominess occurs over larger bumps[2].
Fuel Economy
EPA ratings show 11 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 13 mpg combined[8]. Real-world testing reveals better results when the battery remains charged: Car and Driver observed 26 mpg during 75-mph highway driving in hybrid mode with a total highway range of approximately 410 miles[2]. Electric-only range reached 29 miles in their testing, slightly exceeding BMW’s estimates[2]. If you plan to charge at home, consider reviewing our guide to the best EV chargers.
Features and Technology
Standard equipment includes:
- M-specific adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers
- Carbon-ceramic brakes (standard)
- BMW Live Cockpit Professional with curved display
- Active Driving Assistant with automated emergency braking
- Harman Kardon surround sound system
The Executive Package adds ventilated front seats, soft-close doors, and rear-seat entertainment. BMW offers extensive customization through the Individual program for paint, interior trim, and stitching options[3].
Safety technology mirrors the 2025 BMW 5 Series sedan, which earned IIHS Top Safety Pick status with Good ratings across crashworthiness categories[9]. The front crash prevention system for pedestrians also achieved a Good rating[9].
Ownership Costs
Pricing
| Configuration | Price |
|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $125,275[1] |
| As-Tested (typical) | $140,775[1] |
| Destination Fee | $1,175 |
| M Driver’s Package | $2,500[2] |
Prices as of December 2025. Market conditions may result in dealer markups.
Total Cost Considerations
Premium unleaded fuel is required[8]. The estimated monthly fuel cost runs approximately $209 based on average driving patterns[8]. Insurance costs will be substantial given the vehicle’s performance classification and replacement value. Maintenance costs align with other BMW M models, meaning higher-than-average service expenses for brakes, tires, and scheduled maintenance intervals. BMW’s plug-in hybrid warranty covers the battery for 8 years or 80,000 miles.
For those comparing to the 2025 BMW M5 sedan, the Touring commands only a $2,000 premium over its four-door sibling[3].
Pros and Cons
2025 BMW M5 Touring
Pros:
- Massive 717 hp outguns all direct competitors[2]
- 25+ miles EV range enables emissions-free commuting[2]
- Excellent highway fuel economy (26 mpg at 75 mph) for the class[2]
- Superior handling balance despite weight penalty[6]
- First M5 wagon officially sold in America[4]
Cons:
- Curb weight approaches 5,500 lbs[5]
- Polarizing exterior styling may not age gracefully[4]
- Interior relies too heavily on touchscreen controls[4]
- Easily exceeds $140,000 with popular options[1]
2025 Audi RS6 Avant Performance
Pros:
- 600 pounds lighter improves agility and braking[5]
- Quicker off-the-line acceleration (3.3 sec 0-60)[5]
- Elegant, widely praised design[6]
- Shorter braking distances (101 feet from 60 mph)[6]
Cons:
- No EV capability or hybrid efficiency[5]
- Less refined handling at the limit[6]
- Lower power output (621 hp vs 717 hp)[5]
- Loses momentum at higher speeds vs M5[5]
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 BMW M5 Touring if you:
- Want maximum power and bragging rights in the super-wagon segment
- Value electric-only driving capability for daily commutes
- Prioritize on-road handling balance over track-focused dynamics
- Prefer the practical benefits of a long-roof wagon over performance SUVs
Choose the 2025 Audi RS6 Avant Performance if you:
- Prioritize driving feel and weight sensitivity
- Value shorter braking distances and launch performance
- Prefer the RS6’s more timeless exterior design
- Want a simpler powertrain without hybrid complexity
Both wagons deliver extraordinary performance that renders their weight disadvantages academic in most driving situations. MotorTrend’s comparison gave the edge to BMW for overall dynamic polish, but the RS6 remains a formidable alternative with its own strengths[6]. For BMW enthusiasts who have waited years for an M5 wagon, this Touring delivers on decades of anticipation.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 BMW M5 Touring combines 717 horsepower with 25+ miles of EV range, creating a unique proposition in the super-wagon segment
- Despite weighing 600 pounds more than the Audi RS6 Avant Performance, the M5 Touring earned first place in MotorTrend’s comparison for superior handling balance
- Pricing starts at $125,275, with most tested examples reaching $140,775 with options
- Real-world highway fuel economy of 26 mpg at 75 mph significantly beats EPA estimates when the hybrid system operates efficiently
FAQs
How much does the 2025 BMW M5 Touring cost?
The 2025 BMW M5 Touring starts at $125,275, though well-equipped examples typically reach $140,775 or higher with popular options like the Executive Package and M Driver’s Package[1].
Is the 2025 BMW M5 Touring faster than the Audi RS6 Avant?
The RS6 Avant Performance edges out the M5 Touring in 0-60 acceleration (3.3 vs 3.4 seconds), but the M5 Touring’s 717-hp hybrid powertrain delivers higher trap speeds in quarter-mile runs and would likely win in longer drag races[5].
How far can the M5 Touring drive on electricity alone?
BMW estimates approximately 25 miles of electric-only range from the 14.8-kWh battery pack. Car and Driver achieved 29 miles in real-world testing at highway speeds[2].
References
- Car and Driver. (2025). 2025 BMW M5 Touring Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/m5-touring
- Car and Driver. (2025). Tested: 2025 BMW M5 Touring Is a Hybrid Wagon That Does It All. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a69239467/2025-bmw-m5-touring-test/
- Bimmer Mag. (2025). 2025 BMW M5 Touring G99 Review. https://www.bimmer-mag.com/2025-bmw-m5-touring-g99/
- Road and Track. (2025). Tested: 2025 BMW M5 Touring. https://www.roadandtrack.com/reviews/a64702852/2025-bmw-m5-touring-test-drive-review/
- Edmunds. (2025). Audi RS 6 Avant vs. BMW M5 Touring: Big Wagons Hit the Track. https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/2025-bmw-m5-touring-audi-rs6-avant-track-test-feature.html
- MotorTrend. (2025). 2025 BMW M5 Touring vs. Audi RS6 Avant Performance Comparison Test. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2025-bmw-m5-touring-station-wagon-vs-audi-rs6-avant-performance-comparison-test-review
- MotorTrend. (2025). 2025 BMW M5 Touring First Test Review. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2025-bmw-m5-touring-first-test-review
- Edmunds. (2025). 2025 BMW M5 Touring Specs & Features. https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/m5/2025/st-402063873/features-specs/
- IIHS. (2024). 2025 BMW 5 series Safety Ratings. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/bmw/5-series-4-door-sedan/2025
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
