The BMW 5 Series Touring, long celebrated for its blend of driving dynamics, sophisticated design, and practical functionality in the premium mid-range segment, is embarking on a transformative new chapter. This sixth generation iteration of the BMW station wagon marks a significant leap forward, embracing cutting-edge digital technologies, advanced automated driving and parking systems, and a profound commitment to sustainability throughout its lifecycle. Notably, the 2024 BMW 5 Series Touring introduces, for the first time, a fully electric variant in the form of the BMW i5 Touring, signaling a bold step into the future of automotive innovation.
This latest BMW station wagon is meticulously engineered to excel as a versatile vehicle for both daily commutes and extended journeys. It projects a stylish and commanding presence while delivering signature BMW sportiness, adaptable utility, and a spacious, comfortable cabin environment.
BMW’s forward-thinking approach is evident in the flexible drive architecture underpinning the new 5 Series Touring. This innovative platform enables the production of models with highly efficient gasoline and diesel engines, plug-in hybrid powertrains, and all-electric drive systems all on the same assembly line at the BMW Group’s state-of-the-art Dingolfing plant. The market launch is strategically phased, beginning in May 2024 in Germany, several European markets, and Japan, with a broader global rollout to follow in June 2024.
Exterior Design: Stretched Proportions and a Striking Stance
The exterior of the 2024 BMW 5 Series Touring is defined by dynamically elongated proportions and expansive, smoothly sculpted surfaces. Compared to its predecessor, this new BMW station wagon has grown in every dimension, reflecting a more substantial road presence. It is 97 millimeters longer (now 5,060 millimeters), 32 millimeters wider (at 1,900 millimeters), and 17 millimeters taller (reaching 1,515 millimeters). The wheelbase, a key factor in ride comfort and interior space, is the longest in its class, extended by 20 millimeters to 2,995 millimeters.
The front fascia makes a bold statement with a modern interpretation of BMW’s iconic twin headlights and kidney grille. Striking vertical LED elements serve dual functions as both direction indicators and daytime running lights, creating a distinctive light signature. The BMW grille, projecting assertively forward, can be optionally enhanced with BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting, adding a further touch of visual drama.
In profile, the flowing window lines and extended roof spoiler accentuate the sporty yet elegant two-box silhouette characteristic of a station wagon. The powerfully sculpted rear wheel arches, coupled with the gently sloping rear window, visually widen the car’s stance, conveying stability and confidence. At the rear, L-shaped chrome inlays divide the LED taillight elements, which wrap deeply into the side panels, ensuring high visibility and a cohesive design.
BMW offers an extensive palette of exterior paint finishes, including three exclusive BMW Individual paint options, allowing for a high degree of personalization. Standard equipment includes light-alloy wheels, 18-inch for combustion engine models and 19-inch for the all-electric i5 and plug-in hybrid variants. For those seeking an even more assertive look, alloy wheels up to 21 inches in diameter are available as optional upgrades. The dynamic character of the new BMW 5 Series Touring can be further amplified with optional M Sport Package, M Sport Package Pro, and M Carbon Exterior Package, each adding distinct sporting visual enhancements. The range-topping BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring, as the performance flagship, comes standard with unique exterior components that unequivocally signal its exceptional driving capabilities.
Interior: Progressive Cockpit and Vegan Materials
Stepping inside the 2024 BMW 5 Series Touring reveals a progressively designed, driver-centric cockpit anchored by the stunning BMW Curved Display. This seamless, fully digital display network integrates a 12.3-inch Information Display behind the steering wheel and a 14.9-inch Control Display in the center console, creating an immersive and intuitive user interface. The cabin’s modern premium ambiance is further elevated by newly designed sport seats, now standard, a steering wheel with a flattened lower section for a sporty feel, and the optional BMW Interaction Bar, a crystalline backlit element spanning the dashboard.
Demonstrating BMW’s commitment to sustainability, the new 5 Series Touring features a completely vegan interior as standard. The Veganza upholstery, a high-quality leather alternative, is also optionally available with decorative perforations for enhanced breathability and visual appeal. For those desiring the ultimate in luxury, BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery is offered as an option, available in a range of sophisticated bi-color combinations. Additional interior highlights from the optional equipment program include a panoramic glass roof, flooding the cabin with natural light, and the audiophile-grade Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, boasting up to 18 meticulously placed loudspeakers for an unparalleled audio experience.
Functionality: Optimized for Daily Life and Travel
The 2024 BMW 5 Series Touring is engineered to provide enhanced space and comfort for all occupants. Rear passengers especially benefit from noticeably increased legroom, shoulder room, and elbow room, making long journeys more relaxed and enjoyable. Acoustic comfort has also been optimized, creating a serene and refined cabin environment. Beyond passenger comfort, the new BMW station wagon excels in practicality.
A widened luggage compartment opening, combined with a lower loading sill, significantly eases the task of loading and unloading bulky items. Regardless of the powertrain variant, all models of the new BMW 5 Series Touring offer a generous luggage compartment volume, expandable from 570 liters to a maximum of 1,700 liters with the rear seats folded. Adding to the convenience, automatic tailgate operation is standard, as is remote unlocking of the 40:20:40 split-folding rear seat backrests directly from the luggage compartment. Thoughtful storage compartments beneath the load compartment floor provide dedicated space for the luggage compartment partition net, the retractable luggage compartment cover, and the charging cable for the all-electric i5 Touring and plug-in hybrid models.
BMW i5 Touring: All-Electric Versatility
The BMW i5 Touring marks a pivotal moment as the first all-electric premium model in its competitive segment. From its market launch, the i5 Touring is available in two distinct versions, catering to different performance preferences. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring represents the high-performance electric station wagon, featuring dual highly integrated drive units, one on each axle, creating an electric all-wheel-drive system with a maximum output of up to 442 kW/601 hp. With M Launch Control or M Sport Boost activated, the system torque peaks at a staggering 820 Nm (605 ft-lb). This translates to breathtaking acceleration, propelling the top-of-the-line model from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 3.9 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph).
The BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring, on the other hand, prioritizes range and efficiency while still delivering brisk performance. Its electric motor, positioned on the rear axle, produces a maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp and up to 430 Nm (317 ft-lb) of torque with Sport Boost or Launch Control engaged. This configuration enables the i5 eDrive40 Touring to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a respectable 6.1 seconds.
Both BMW i5 Touring models are equipped with a high-voltage battery pack located low in the vehicle underbody, maximizing interior space and lowering the center of gravity for improved handling. The battery offers a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. Combined with highly efficient electric motors, adaptive recuperation, and heat pump technology for climate control, the i5 Touring models are engineered for impressive long-distance capability. The WLTP-rated range is between 445 to 506 kilometers (277 to 314 miles) for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring and extends to 483 to 560 kilometers (300 to 348 miles) for the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring, making range anxiety a thing of the past for this electric station wagon.
Charging Innovations and Diesel Options
BMW Charging provides innovative and convenient charging solutions for the i5 Touring. The battery can be charged at home or at public AC charging points at up to 11 kW as standard, with an optional upgrade to 22 kW for faster AC charging. For rapid charging on the go, the high-voltage battery supports DC fast charging at up to 205 kW. Predictive thermal management for the battery optimizes charging efficiency, particularly at high-power fast-charging stations. Connected Home Charging features further enhance convenience and efficiency, enabling solar-optimized, load-optimized, and cost-optimized charging at home. The BMW i5 Touring also supports the Plug & Charge Multi Contract function for seamless public charging access.
For customers who prefer traditional powertrains, the new BMW 5 Series Touring continues to offer advanced diesel engines. All diesel variants are equipped with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology and an 8-speed Steptronic transmission, enhancing both efficiency and responsiveness. The four-cylinder engine in the BMW 520d Touring and 520d xDrive Touring models available at launch delivers a maximum output of 145 kW/197 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The diesel engine lineup will be expanded in summer 2024 with the addition of a powerful in-line six-cylinder diesel engine, further broadening the range of choices for BMW station wagon enthusiasts. Simultaneously, two plug-in hybrid model variants will join the portfolio, offering a compelling blend of electric driving and long-distance capability.
Driving Dynamics and Automated Systems
The 2024 BMW 5 Series Touring is engineered to deliver an ideal balance of sporty handling and refined ride comfort, a hallmark of the BMW brand. Key factors contributing to this dynamic performance include the longest wheelbase in its segment, wide track widths, a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, intelligent lightweight construction, and a highly rigid body structure. The extensively upgraded suspension technology incorporates sport steering, direct wheel slip limitation, and the latest iteration of the integrated braking system as standard. The BMW i5 Touring and plug-in hybrid models further benefit from rear-axle air suspension, including automatic self-leveling, ensuring a composed and comfortable ride even when carrying heavy loads.
Optional enhancements to driving dynamics include M Sport Suspension, M sport brakes, and Adaptive Chassis Professional (standard on the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring), featuring electronically controlled dampers, Integral Active Steering, and advanced lateral dynamics management. For the ultimate in handling prowess, the Adaptive M Chassis Professional with Active Roll Stabilization and Active Roll Comfort is also available for the top-tier model.
The new BMW 5 Series Touring sets new benchmarks in its class for semi-automated driving and parking systems. The optional Driving Assistant Professional package includes Steering and Lane Control Assist and Distance Control with Stop & Go function. In the US, Canada, and Germany, the Highway Assistant feature is available, allowing for hands-free driving on highways with structurally separated lanes at speeds up to 130 km/h (85 mph), provided the driver remains attentive to traffic conditions. This system also incorporates the innovative Active Lane Change Assistant with eye activation, further enhancing driving convenience and safety.
Standard parking assistance features include Parking Assistant with start monitoring, Trailer Assistant, and Reversing Assist Camera. The optional Parking Assistant Professional elevates parking convenience to a new level, enabling automated parking and maneuvering of up to 200 meters to be controlled remotely from outside the vehicle using a smartphone.
BMW iDrive and Digital Connectivity
The enhanced BMW iDrive display and operating system, based on BMW Operating System 8.5, features a redesigned home screen and “QuickSelect” function for rapid access to frequently used features. The intuitive combination of the BMW Curved Display and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is optimized for both touchscreen and natural voice control. Standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus includes the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system. The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional adds the BMW Head-Up Display and Augmented View functionality on the Control Display or instrument cluster, further enhancing the driver’s situational awareness.
The infotainment system in the new BMW 5 Series Touring is complemented by a wide array of digital services. The Connected Package Professional provides access to YouTube and the Video app, offering a vast library of international and country-specific video content for streaming on the Control Display. The new BMW iDrive also introduces in-car gaming through the AirConsole platform, offering a unique and engaging entertainment option while parked.
The new BMW 5 Series Touring is equipped with two 5G mobile phone antennas as standard, with an option to upgrade to four, ensuring optimal connectivity for telephony and online services. Standard smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ is included, as is the Personal eSIM, seamlessly integrating the vehicle into the customer’s digital ecosystem. Remote Software Upgrades keep the BMW 5 Series Touring continuously updated with the latest software features and improvements. Selectable functions can also be tested and booked retroactively through the BMW ConnectedDrive Store, offering ongoing customization and feature enhancement.
CO2 Emissions & Consumption (Provisional Data)
BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring*: Power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 19.3 – 16.5 kWh/100 km; Electric range in WLTP cycle: 483 – 560 km
BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring*: Power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 20.8 – 18.3 kWh/100 km; Electric range in WLTP cycle: 445 – 506 km
BMW 530e Touring (from summer 2024)*: Fuel consumption in l/100km combined in WLTP cycle: 0.9 – 0.7; Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined in WLTP cycle: 21.6 – 19.5; CO2 emissions in g/km combined in WLTP cycle: 20 – 16
BMW 530e xDrive Touring (from summer 2024)*: Fuel consumption in l/100km combined in WLTP cycle: 1.1 – 0.8; Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined in WLTP cycle: 22.4 – 20.3; CO2 emissions in g/km combined in WLTP cycle: 23 – 18
BMW 520d Touring*: Fuel consumption in l/100km combined in WLTP cycle: 5.9 – 5.3; CO2 emissions in g/km combined in WLTP cycle: 154 – 141
BMW 520d xDrive Touring*: Fuel consumption in l/100km combined in WLTP cycle: 6.2 – 5.7; CO2 emissions in g/km combined in WLTP cycle: 163 – 149
BMW 540d xDrive Touring (from summer 2024)*: Fuel consumption in l/100km combined in WLTP cycle: 6.6 – 5.8; CO2 emissions in g/km combined in WLTP cycle: 174 – 154
* All consumption and emission values are provisional and subject to change. Specifications may vary by market. Dimensions refer to basic equipment in Germany and may change based on options selected.
