The BMW M5 Touring is a rare and cherished icon in the automotive world, embodying a unique blend of performance, practicality, and exclusivity. Over the years, BMW has produced a few Touring (wagon) variants of its legendary M5 sedan, each earning a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. The story of the M5 Touring is one of pushing boundaries, from the early days with the E34 to the exciting future represented by the new G99.

The E34 M5 Touring: The Pioneer

The M5 Touring saga began with the E34 generation, introduced in 1992. This was the first time BMW had ever offered an M5 in a wagon body style, making it a groundbreaking model. Hand-assembled at BMW’s Garching facility, only 891 units of the E34 M5 Touring were produced, making it incredibly rare. Powered by a 3.8-liter inline-six engine that delivered 340 horsepower, it combined high performance with the practicality of a wagon, appealing to enthusiasts who needed space without sacrificing driving dynamics.

The E61 M5 Touring: V10 Power and Versatility

The M5 Touring story continued in 2007 with the E61 model, which brought the thrill of BMW’s high-revving V10 engine to the wagon format. The E61 M5 Touring featured a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine producing 507 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed SMG transmission. This combination allowed it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, all while offering the utility of a wagon. Despite its performance, the E61 retained the luxurious and practical nature expected from a BMW Touring, making it a favorite among those who desired both speed and space. However, it was never officially offered in the United States, adding to its allure and rarity.

The G99 M5 Touring: The Future of Performance Wagons

Fast forward to today, and the story of the M5 Touring is set to continue with the upcoming G99 model. Expected to be based on the latest G90 M5 sedan, the G99 M5 Touring is anticipated to bring BMW’s wagon legacy into the modern era with cutting-edge technology and even greater performance. While details are still under wraps, the G99 is expected to feature a hybrid powertrain, combining a potent V8 engine with electric assistance to deliver extraordinary power and efficiency. This model is eagerly awaited by enthusiasts who have long hoped for the return of the M5 Touring, especially in markets like the United States and Canada where previous Touring models were unavailable.

The Legacy of the M5 Touring

The BMW M5 Touring models, from the E34 and E61 to the upcoming G99, represent a unique fusion of practicality and performance. They are a testament to BMW’s ability to create vehicles that not only thrill on the road but also cater to the needs of those who require space and versatility. As SUVs and crossovers continue to dominate the market, the M5 Touring stands as a reminder that wagons can offer the best of both worlds—uncompromised performance and everyday usability.

For those lucky enough to own or anticipate owning an M5 Touring, it is more than just a car. It is a piece of BMW’s rich motorsport history, a collector’s dream, and a driving experience that is truly one of a kind. As the G99 prepares to join this lineage, the story of the BMW M5 Touring is far from over—it is evolving, with each chapter more exciting than the last.