BMW Knows People Want More Wagons
Could the unexpected success of the M5 Touring in the U.S. convince BMW to offer more wagons to shoppers?
Key Points
- Demand for the 2025 BMW M5 Touring is surpassing that of the M5 sedan in the U.S., signaling a shift in consumer interest toward performance wagons in a market traditionally dominated by sedans and SUVs.
- BMW had only projected the Touring to make up a third of M5 production, but current demand is pushing the global mix closer to an even 50/50 split, with the U.S. showing a stronger preference for the wagon than Europe.
- The M5 Touring's performance and market reception could influence BMW to bring more wagons to North America, potentially beyond high-performance models.
Speaking to BMW Blog, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel confirmed that demand for the new M5 Touring is outstripping the M5 sedan in the United States. He wouldn't reveal precise figures, but he did say that the wagon is drawing noticeably more interest than the traditionally more popular sedan. That’s a huge win in a market where wagons have long been relegated to niche status.
Of course, the M5 is a niche product in and of itself, but it doesn't matter in these books.
“Well, actually in Europe, still more sedan than Touring,” said van Meel. “US is the other way around. We currently have a higher demand in the US for the Touring than for the sedan.” Worldwide, M5 demand is split just about 50/50 between the two body styles.
2025 BMW M5 Touring: All The Details
BMW had initially projected the M5 Touring to account for about one-third of the M5’s production mix. Previously, BMW officials have more or less called M5 Touring sales in North America an acid test that would determine whether the automaker will reintroduce wagon models to the US shores on a grander scale—you know, so regular people who don't want a fire-breathing chariot can enjoy the touring life as well— Mercedes is already doing it.
The 2025 BMW M5 Touring launched with a hybridized V8 powertrain that jams to the tune of 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. It's a hefty rig, though, tipping the scales at north of 5,500 pounds—still, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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I have a 2017 BMW 330ix in blue with adjustable suspension, very comfortable seats, decent fuel consumption and 0-100kph in 6 seconds. There hasn't been a BMW wagon brought into Canada since 2017, which is why I still enjoy the one I have. I am waiting for Canada to enable ALL vehicles that meet EU standards to be sold here. They aren't that much different and Europe has a LOT of ICE and EV models that would sell in Canada but are not available because of stupid import testing regulations.