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The new BMW 5 Series Touring: Epitome of elegance, luxury and functionality

The new BMW 5 Series Touring represents a significant step forward in terms of design, technology, and sustainability.

By Lisa Curtiss   |  

The BMW 5 Series Touring has entered a new era with its sixth generation, introducing numerous innovative features, enhanced dimensions, and, for the first time, an all-electric model, the i5 Touring. As the epitome of driving pleasure, sporty elegance, and modern functionality in the premium upper mid-range segment, the new BMW 5 Series Touring is set to captivate a broad audience with its progressive design and advanced technology.

Enhanced design and dimensions

The all-new BMW 5 Series Touring features slightly larger dimensions compared to its predecessor, providing more space for passengers and luggage. The exterior design emphasises its dynamically stretched proportions, giving the car a sophisticated and sporty appearance. Measuring 97 millimetres longer, 32 millimetres wider, and 17 millimetres taller, the new 5 Series Touring also boasts the longest wheelbase in its class at 2,995 millimetres. This increase in size translates to more legroom and comfort, particularly for rear passengers.

The front end of the new BMW 5 Series Touring showcases a modern interpretation of BMW’s signature twin headlights and grille. The grille, available with BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting on the M Sport Pro model, projects a bold presence. The side profile highlights the flat window graphics and long roof spoiler, accentuating the car’s sleek and elegant two-box design. At the rear, powerfully sculpted wheel arches and a flat rear window emphasise the car’s wide stance, while L-shaped chrome bars divide the LED rear light elements, extending into the side sections for a distinctive look.

BMW 5 Series Touring on road
The exterior design emphasises its dynamically stretched proportions, giving the car a sophisticated and sporty appearance

All-electric BMW i5 Touring

One of the most exciting developments for the new 5 Series Touring is the introduction of the all-electric BMW i5 Touring. This marks the first time BMW has offered an all-electric drive in this model, reflecting the company’s commitment to increased sustainability. The BMW i5 Touring will be available in two versions: the i5 eDrive40 and the high-performance i5 M60. The i5 eDrive40 features an electric motor on the rear axle, delivering a maximum output of 340 hp and a torque of up to 430 Nm with Sport Boost or Launch Control function. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 6.1 seconds and offers an electric range of 300 to 348 miles according to the WLTP test procedure.

The i5 M60, the top model in the series, features two highly integrated drive units on the front and rear axles, forming an electric all-wheel drive system with up to 601 hp. When M Launch Control or M Sport Boost is activated, the system torque increases to 820 Nm, allowing the i5 M60 to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 143 mph, and it offers an electric range of 277 to 314 miles. Both models are equipped with a high-voltage battery located in the underbody, providing a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. This battery, along with adaptive recuperation and heat pump technology for heating and cooling, contributes to the long-distance capability of the BMW i5 Touring.

Efficient combustion and hybrid models

In addition to the all-electric models, the new 5 Series Touring will also be available with highly efficient combustion engines and plug-in hybrid systems. The BMW 530e plug-in hybrid combines a petrol engine with an electric motor, offering a combined output of 299 hp and a torque of 450 Nm. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 6.4 seconds and has an electric range of 52 to 60 miles. This flexibility in drive systems allows BMW to cater to a wide range of customer preferences and needs.

BMW 5 Series Touring rear view
The all-new BMW 5 Series Touring features slightly larger dimensions compared to its predecessor, providing more space for passengers and luggage

Trim levels and customisation

The new BMW 5 Series Touring will be available in four distinct trim levels in the UK: Sport Edition, M Sport, M Sport Pro, and the range-topping BMW i5 M60. Each trim level offers unique features and styling, catering to different tastes and requirements. The Sport Edition provides an entry point into the BMW i5 range, featuring 19-inch light alloy wheels and Phytonic Blue Metallic paint as standard. The interior is finished to a high standard, with a Veganza two-spoke steering wheel, BMW Interaction Bar, and a Harmon Kardon sound system. The i5 eDrive40 Sport Edition also includes AC Professional Charging, allowing up to 22 kW charging as standard.

The M Sport trim includes a high level of standard equipment, with options to personalise the new model further. It features horizontal slats with the M logo, high-gloss black exterior mirror caps, and 19-inch M light alloy wheels for a striking appearance. The dynamic character of the 5 Series Touring is further emphasised in the M Sport Pro Model, which includes an M Rear spoiler, M high-gloss Shadowline, and a high-gloss black BMW Kidney Grille with Iconic Glow. The M Sport Pro Model comes with 20-inch M light alloy wheels and M Sport brakes in red high-gloss as standard. Optional equipment includes BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery in several bi-colour variants and a panoramic glass roof.

The top-of-the-range BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring stands out with exterior components that highlight its outstanding driving dynamics. It comes with a Bowers and Wilkins Surround Sound System with up to 18 loudspeakers as standard, 20-inch M aerodynamic wheels, and Adaptive suspension Professional. These features ensure a superior driving experience, combining sportiness with comfort.

Advanced interior features

Inside, the new BMW 5 Series Touring offers a progressive, driver-oriented cockpit design. The centrepiece is the BMW Curved Display, which includes a 12.3-inch Information Display and a 14.9-inch Control Display, forming a fully digital display network. The modern interior is further enhanced by new sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and the BMW Interaction Bar. The BMW iDrive system with “QuickSelect” provides an intuitive user experience, allowing for easy access to various functions and settings.

BMW 5 Series Touring detail close up
The new BMW 5 Series Touring will be available in four distinct trim levels in the UK: Sport Edition, M Sport, M Sport Pro, and the range-topping BMW i5 M60

Automated driving and parking systems

The new BMW 5 Series Touring also includes advanced systems for semi-automated driving and parking. Standard features include Steering and Lane Control Assist, Distance Control with Stop and Go function, and Active Lane Change Assistant with eye activation. In the US, Canada, and Germany, the Highway Assistant allows drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel at speeds of up to 85 mph on highways with structurally separated lanes. The Parking Assistant Professional enables automated parking and manoeuvring up to 200 metres, controlled via smartphone.

Spacious and versatile luggage compartment

The 5 Series Touring offers more space and comfort, especially in the rear. The boot can expand from 570 to 1,700 litres, with a wide opening and low sill for easy loading. All models feature automatic tailgate operation and remote seat backrest unlocking. The luggage compartment is versatile, with storage compartments under the load floor for the partition net, cover, and charging cable.

Connectivity and entertainment

For connectivity and entertainment, the new BMW 5 Series Touring comes with optimised smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The standard Personal eSIM fully integrates the vehicle into the customer’s digital ecosystem. The enhanced BMW iDrive display and operating system, based on BMW Operating System 8.5, includes a redesigned home screen and the “QuickSelect” quick access function. The system supports video streaming, AirConsole games, and a range of digital services, ensuring an engaging and enjoyable in-car experience.

BMW 5 Series Touring interior
For connectivity and entertainment, the new BMW 5 Series Touring comes with optimised smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Efficient charging solutions

Charging solutions for the all-electric models include AC charging up to 22 kW and DC fast charging up to 205 kW. Connected Home Charging creates conditions for solar and cost-optimised charging. The BMW i5 Touring supports the Plug and Charge Multi Contract function, simplifying the charging process.

Driving dynamics and comfort

Driving pleasure in the new BMW 5 Series Touring is based on a balance between sportiness and comfort. With the longest wheelbase in its class, large track widths, and a near-perfect 50:50 axle load distribution, the car offers an ideal driving experience. The enhanced suspension technology includes sport steering, directly controlled wheel slip limitation, and the latest version of the integrated braking system. Rear-axle air suspension with automatic self-levelling is standard on the electric and plug-in hybrid models.

Optional features such as the M Sport Suspension, M sport braking system, and Adaptive Chassis Professional enhance the driving dynamics. The top model, BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring, includes Adaptive M Chassis Professional with Active Roll Stabilisation and Active Roll Comfort.

The new BMW 5 Series Touring represents a significant step forward in terms of design, technology, and sustainability. With its larger dimensions, advanced features, and the introduction of an all-electric model, the 5 Series Touring is set to appeal to a wide range of customers. Whether you’re looking for sportiness, comfort, or cutting-edge technology, the new BMW 5 Series Touring delivers an exceptional driving experience, making it a standout choice in the premium upper mid-range segment.

For more information, visit bmw.co.uk