Exciting news for car enthusiasts in the United States—BMW is bringing the M5 Touring to our shores. This marks a significant moment as performance wagons have been a rare sight in the U.S. market. Audi led the charge with the RS6, which sold remarkably well, and now BMW is following suit with the M5 Touring. While this is a thrilling development, it’s surprising that the U.S. market still doesn’t get the M3 Touring, a model that many believe could outperform the M5 in terms of sales due to its more accessible size and pricing.
M5 Touring: Power, Presence, and Performance
The BMW M5 Touring is set to make its debut in U.S. dealerships in early 2025, marking the first time an M car station wagon will be available in the United States. This vehicle is a powerhouse, boasting an impressive 717 horsepower under the hood.
The powertrain is a blend of a 577-horsepower twin-turbo V8 and a 194-horsepower electric motor, all delivered through an 8-speed transmission. The M5 Touring also features an all-wheel-drive system that can be switched to rear-wheel drive for a more dynamic driving experience.
Despite its power, the M5 Touring is no lightweight, tipping the scales at over 5,530 lbs. This heft is due in part to the hybrid system, which adds significant weight.
However, the vehicle’s top speed can reach up to 190 mph with the M Driver’s Package, making it one of the fastest wagons on the market. Priced at $122,600, the M5 Touring commands a premium over the M5 sedan, offering additional space and practicality in return.
M3 Touring: Compact, Capable, and Unavailable in the U.S.
While the M5 Touring is a significant addition to the U.S. market, the M3 Touring remains out of reach for American buyers. This is unfortunate, as the M3 Touring presents a compelling alternative in markets where it is available. It is the first M3 Touring ever produced, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is paired with the same 8-speed automatic transmission as the M5, delivering a thrilling driving experience.
In terms of price, the M3 Touring is competitive, coming in at around $120,000 when fully loaded. Despite its smaller engine, the M3 Touring is no slouch—it can achieve 0-60 mph in just about 3 seconds, according to independent tests, potentially making it quicker than the M5 Touring.
This combination of performance, size, and price makes the M3 Touring an appealing option, especially for those who value agility and precision in a slightly smaller package.
Design Comparisons: M5 Touring vs. M3 Touring
When comparing the designs of the M5 and M3 Touring, distinct differences emerge that could influence a buyer’s decision. The M5 Touring maintains a more traditional BMW grille layout, although it’s interrupted by a radar placed between the kidney grilles.
This design choice may not appeal to everyone, as it disrupts the classic BMW front-end aesthetic. Additionally, the M5’s design feels bulkier, a necessary compromise to accommodate the hybrid system’s battery.
In contrast, the M3 Touring’s design is more cohesive and fluid, particularly with its larger rear volume that balances the front-end graphics. The sharp angles and aggressive design of the M5 might seem too much for some, whereas the M3 Touring retains a cleaner, more classic BMW aesthetic.
The M3’s proportions are also more visually appealing, with a smooth shoulder line that flows seamlessly into the tail lights, offering a design that feels less cluttered compared to the M5.
Rear and Interior Design: A Closer Look
The rear views of both the M5 and M3 Touring are particularly striking, each with its own unique appeal. The M3 Touring’s rear design is simpler and more refined, featuring fluid lines and a well-integrated spoiler. Meanwhile, the M5 Touring, though attractive, has a more industrial look, with sharp lines and angles that may not be to everyone’s taste.
Inside, the M3 Touring continues its theme of fluidity with curved lines and a driver-focused cockpit that feels cozy and inviting. On the other hand, the M5 Touring’s interior is more static, with sharp, horizontal lines and crystal accents that could be perceived as overly delicate. While both interiors are luxurious and well-designed, the M3’s interior may feel more welcoming to those who prefer a softer, more fluid design language.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
In the end, the choice between the M5 Touring and the M3 Touring will largely depend on personal preference, especially regarding design and driving experience. For those who prioritize raw power, space, and the unmistakable presence of a V8 engine, the M5 Touring is an excellent choice. However, for buyers who prefer a more balanced, agile, and aesthetically cohesive vehicle, the M3 Touring is hard to beat.
If I had to choose between the two, I would undoubtedly go for a white M3 Touring with bronze wheels. This combination offers the perfect blend of performance, style, and practicality, making it an ideal performance wagon for those who value precision and design. Even though the M3 Touring lacks the V8 engine of the M5, its inline-six engine provides more than enough power for an exhilarating driving experience.
