It’s been 14 years since BMW gave us an estate version of its legendary M5. However, for 2024, the German carmaker has decided to reinstate the famous model with its new M5 Touring.
Estate cars have always been about space, and the new M5 Touring scores well in this category. Boot space stands at 500 litres, but, fold the rear seats down and that space increases to 1,630 litres, making it not only performance-focused but practical, too.
However, what if you feel its looks are a little too strong? Or, you fancy something German but don’t want a BMW? Well, this sector may be shrinking with options, but we can compare the M5 Touring to its biggest rivals to see how it fairs in this niche market.
Audi RS6 Avant Performance
Here in the UK, you can only buy the Performance model which has a boost in power compared to the standard car. Now, its 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 produces 639bhp and 850Nm of torque as well as featuring four-wheel-drive.
Not only that, but this big old bruiser can get from 0-60mph in just 3.2 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 174mph. However, if you pay a little extra, you can have the limiter removed taking the car to around 200mph.
Unlike the BMW, which uses a plug-in hybrid system, the Audi doesn’t and instead uses a 48V mild-hybrid system to help boost its efficiency and improve running costs to some extent.
Its boot space stands at 565 litres and expands to 1,680 litres which is bigger than the M5 but smaller compared to the Mercedes E63 estate.
Mercedes-AMG E63
Like the BMW, the Mercedes uses a plug-in hybrid system that helps boost its economy and efficiency, while still maintaining enough power and torque to make this model fun and exciting.
Under the bonnet sits a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that produces 604bhp and 627Nm of torque – the same engine found in the AMG GT supercar.
Boot space also is bigger than both the M5 and RS6 at 695 litres with the rear seats in place and 1,945 litres when they’re folded down.
Alpina B5
BMW i5 Touring
The i5 Touring is still great fun to drive – despite its lack of an engine – and the interior is very well screwed together with a lot of plush cabin materials used throughout.
Porsche Panamera
You can get the Panamera with a variety of different powertrains including a 771bhp e-Hybrid model that can go from 0-60mph in just 2.7 seconds.
Boot space stands at 494 litres or 1,255 litres with the rear seats folded down making it a very versatile car, but not quite on par with traditional estates.
