The highly anticipated BMW 5-Series Touring has finally arrived, promising a compelling blend of athleticism, practicality, and a touch of green innovation. Set to debut this May, the wagon version expands the 5-Series lineup and directly challenges the dominance of crossovers with its sleek design, spacious interior, and diverse powertrain options.
The Touring doesn't stray far from its sedan counterpart, maintaining a sharp and chiseled aesthetic with a pronounced grille and optional BMW Iconic Glow lighting. A strong shoulder line and gently sloping roofline add dynamism, while the rear features angular windows and slender taillights. Standard wheel sizes range from 18 to 19 inches, with 21-inchers available for those seeking a bolder stance. M Sport and M Carbon Exterior packages cater to performance enthusiasts, while the increased dimensions offer improved cabin space compared to the previous generation.
Stepping inside, the Touring welcomes occupants with a familiar layout featuring the signature Curved Display. This digital setup combines a 12.3-inch instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch infotainment system running the latest BMW Operating System 8.5. Entertainment options like video streaming and AirConsole gaming join Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility for seamless connectivity. Sport seats, a new steering wheel with a flat bottom, and a "completely vegan interior" as standard equipment highlight the model's focus on comfort and sustainability.
The true differentiator of the Touring lies in its cargo capacity. The expansive boot boasts 570 liters of space, expandable to a cavernous 1,700 liters with the rear seats folded. Additional storage compartments under the load floor and an automatic tailgate offer further convenience. A panoramic glass roof and BMW Individual Merino leather elevate the interior ambience, while an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and the innovative BMW Interaction Bar cater to discerning drivers.
The Touring presents a range of powertrains to suit tastes. The headline grabber is the i5, BMW's all-electric variant featuring an 81.2 kWh battery pack. The i5 eDrive40 Touring delivers 335 hp and 430 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds and a WLTP range of up to 560 km. For those seeking ultimate performance, the i5 M60 xDrive Touring boasts a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system churning out 593 hp and 820 Nm of torque. This translates to a 0-100 km/h time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h, although range drops to 506 km. Both electric variants accept AC charging speeds of 11 kW and 22 kW, with DC fast charging reaching up to 205 kW.
For traditionalists, several efficient diesel options are available, including a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel producing 194 hp and 400 Nm of torque. This engine pairs with an eight-speed transmission and optional all-wheel drive. Additional powertrain options, including a six-cylinder diesel and plug-in hybrid variants, will be revealed later this summer.
The 5-Series Touring prioritizes safety and driver assistance with the inclusion of features like Steering and Lane Control Assist, Distance Control with Stop & Go function, and Highway Assistant for hands-free driving at speeds up to 130 km/h. An impressive Active Lane Change Assistant with eye activation adds further convenience and a touch of technological magic.
With its striking design, practical cargo space, diverse powertrains, and cutting-edge technology, the new BMW 5-Series Touring stands poised to shake up the market. Whether you're an eco-conscious driver seeking electric thrills, a traditionalist appreciating efficient diesels, or simply someone desiring a spacious and luxurious wagon, the Touring offers a compelling proposition that blends performance, practicality, and style in a uniquely BMW way.