The 2025 BMW M5 Touring stands as a groundbreaking achievement in automotive engineering, merging the ferocious power of a supercar with the practicality of a family wagon. Delivering a combined 717 horsepower from its plug-in hybrid powertrain, this vehicle accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds while offering up to 25 miles of electric-only driving range. Weighing over 5,000 pounds due to its advanced battery pack, it defies expectations by providing exceptional handling, vast cargo capacity, and surprising efficiency.
Powertrain Innovation: V8 Muscle Meets Electric Boost
At the heart of the M5 Touring lies BMW’s S68 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 577 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque on its own. Paired with a 194-hp permanent-magnet electric motor integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission, the system unleashes a total of 717 hp and up to 748 lb-ft of torque. This setup sends power to all four wheels, ensuring traction even in demanding conditions.
The 22.1 kWh lithium-ion battery (with 14.8 kWh usable capacity) enables seamless hybrid operation. In electric mode, the wagon glides quietly for short commutes, achieving real-world ranges exceeding the EPA’s 25-mile estimate—testers reported up to 29 miles at highway speeds. When the battery depletes, hybrid mode maintains impressive fuel economy at 26 mpg combined, a feat for a vehicle of this power.
- Gas Engine: 4.4L twin-turbo V8, 577 hp, 553 lb-ft
- Electric Motor: 194 hp, 207 lb-ft
- Combined Output: 717 hp, 748 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with AWD
- EV Range: 25 miles EPA, up to 29 miles real-world
Drive modes allow customization: Eco prioritizes efficiency, while Sport and M Dynamic unleash the full potential, with the electric motor acting like a ‘third turbo’ for instant torque. Rear-wheel-drive mode adds playful drifts, turning tires into smoke with minimal throttle input.
Performance That Defies Its Size
Despite its 5,000+ pound curb weight—attributed to the hybrid battery—the M5 Touring posts a quarter-mile time of 11.0 seconds at 129 mph. Top speed reaches 155 mph standard, or 190 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package. On twisty roads, its long wheelbase and advanced chassis deliver neutral balance, with no perceptible body roll and endless grip from Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tires (285/40ZR20 front, 295/35ZR21 rear).
Braking is transformed by optional $8,500 carbon-ceramic discs, which confidently haul down the mass from high speeds. In autocross settings, the wagon feels stable yet demands firm inputs, rewarding skilled drivers with controllable slides and precise turn-in.
| Performance Metric | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0-60 mph | 3.5 seconds | BMW claim; independent tests expected faster |
| Quarter-Mile | 11.0 sec @ 129 mph | Real-world testing |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (190 optional) | M Driver’s Package required for max |
| Braking (70-0 mph) | Exceptional with ceramics | Controls 5,000+ lbs admirably |
Design and Practicality for Real Life
The M5 Touring’s exterior boasts aggressive M styling: wide fenders, massive grille, and quad exhausts. Its wagon body provides superior proportions over the sedan, with a panoramic sunroof extending to the rear hatch for an airy cabin. Inside, sport bucket seats offer comfort for five, complemented by a tech-laden dashboard featuring curved displays and ambient lighting.
Cargo versatility shines with 27 cubic feet behind the seats, expanding significantly with folded rears. This makes it ideal for family outings, hauling gear for sports, or weekend escapes—far more practical than pure sports cars.
- Seating: 5 passengers with supportive M buckets
- Cargo: 27 cu ft standard, expandable
- Features: Panoramic roof, advanced infotainment
Driving Dynamics: From Track to Daily Commute
On public roads, the M5 Touring excels in grand touring duties. The hybrid system fills torque gaps instantly, allowing effortless overtakes without waiting for turbo spool. It’s whisper-quiet in EV mode, perfect for neighborhoods, yet roars to life in Sport with optional synthetic engine notes.
Handling benefits from BMW’s SUV tuning expertise: adaptive dampers, rear-wheel steering, and active anti-roll keep it planted. Curvy roads feel like a scalpel, with grip that borders on supernatural. For families, the smooth ride in Comfort mode absorbs bumps while maintaining composure.
Technology and Driver Aids
Bmw’s iDrive system dominates with dual curved screens, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and augmented reality navigation. Hybrid-specific displays track energy flow, while M-specific modes tweak throttle, regen braking, and stability control. Safety suite includes adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and emergency braking.
Energy recovery is adjustable, from subtle to one-pedal driving, enhancing efficiency without drama.
Comparisons: How It Stacks Up
Versus the Mercedes-AMG E53 wagon, the M5 offers superior V8 power over the inline-six. It’s not the quickest wagon—that’s the Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo—but matches it in versatility with hybrid efficiency. Against prior M5s, it’s heavier yet more refined, completing BMW’s shift to tech-forward grand tourers.
Pricing and Availability
Starting around $125,000, options like carbon ceramics and Driver’s Package push it toward $150,000+. As the first M5 wagon for the U.S., it’s a collector’s item blending end-of-era V8 power with electrification.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Insane power, EV range, cargo space, handling
- Cons: Heavy weight, high price, complexity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the 2025 BMW M5 Touring faster than the sedan?
Both share identical powertrains, but the wagon’s extra weight makes it marginally slower; still under 3.5 seconds to 60 mph.
How practical is it for families?
With seating for five, expandable cargo, and quiet EV mode, it’s exceptionally versatile for daily use and adventures.
What’s the real-world fuel economy?
Up to 26 mpg in hybrid mode; 25+ miles EV range when charged.
Does it handle like a sports car?
Yes, with AWD, adaptive suspension, and grippy tires, it corners flat and precisely despite its size.
Is the V8 here to stay?
This may be one of the last high-output V8 wagons, bridging combustion and electric eras.
References
- 2025 BMW M5 Touring Review — The Autopian. 2024. https://www.theautopian.com/2025-bmw-m5-touring-review/
- 2025 BMW M5 Touring Review: The Impossible Mission — Machines with Souls. 2024. https://machineswithsouls.com/2025-bmw-m5-touring-review/
- Tested: 2025 BMW M5 Touring — Car and Driver. 2024. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a69239467/2025-bmw-m5-touring-test/
- 2025 BMW M5 Touring First Drive Review — MotorTrend. 2024. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2025-bmw-m5-touring-wagon-first-drive-review
- 2025 BMW M5 Touring – 717 HP Wagon Review — YouTube (Everyday Reviews). 2024.
- Living With the New BMW M5 Wagon — YouTube (Tedward). 2024.

