BMW has unveiled further details about the upcoming 2024 BMW M5, which is set to enter production later this year. The seventh generation of BMW’s iconic super saloon is currently undergoing extensive testing on public roads, racetracks, and frozen lakes in preparation for its release.
In an exciting development, BMW has confirmed that the latest G60 version of the M5 will mark the return of the beloved Touring estate variant. Despite the M5 being produced as a saloon since 1984, the Touring variant has been a rarity, with only two production runs in the model’s history.
The first instance of an M5 Touring was introduced with the E34 generation in 1992, featuring a robust 340hp 3.8-liter inline-six engine. Despite its utilitarian design, it boasted impressive performance figures, including a 0-62mph sprint time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed limited to 155mph.
Although BMW experimented with a prototype E39 Touring, the estate variant was skipped in the subsequent generation of the M5. However, it made a triumphant return with the E60 model in 2004, coinciding with BMW’s Formula 1 endeavors. The E60 M5 Touring was powered by a formidable 507hp naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 engine, offering exhilarating performance coupled with practicality.
Despite its limited production run, with only 1,025 Touring examples out of 20,589 fourth-generation M5s manufactured, BMW hesitated to reintroduce the estate variant. Nevertheless, the company now appears confident in reintroducing the M5 Touring, expanding its availability to markets previously deprived of the high-performance wagon, including the United States and Canada.
Under the hood, the new M5 will feature a bespoke M Hybrid drivetrain, drawing inspiration from the technology utilized in the BMW M Hybrid V8 GTP race car. According to Dirk Häcker, head of development at BMW M, the integration of electrification will uphold the hallmark performance associated with the M brand.
Production of the highly anticipated BMW M5 Touring is scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2024. Enthusiasts can anticipate further details, including pricing and specifications, to be revealed closer to the production date.
