Who Would Have Thought a Super Wagon Could Outperform a Sedan in America | Carscoops

      According to the leader of BMW's M division, there is "extremely high demand for the new M5."

      Recently reported by Brad Anderson, the BMW M5 Touring is outperforming the sedan variant in the United States.

      On a global scale, the wagon represents about 50 percent of total M5 sales.

      The US pricing for the 717 HP model begins at $121K, which is $5,100 less than the RS6 Avant.

      While wagons may still remain a niche segment in the States, having the right branding and specifications can transform a so-called “practical” vehicle into a cult favorite. This is exactly what the new BMW M5 Touring is experiencing, as it garners more interest than even the company anticipated.

      Considering the significant buzz Audi created when it launched the RS6 Avant in the US market five years ago, it's not surprising that Americans are embracing the concept of a high-performance wagon. However, what is unexpected is how well the M5 Touring is actually performing. According to the head of BMW’s M division, it is already outselling the sedan in this market.

      In a recent appearance at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy, where BMW also showcased the new M2 CS and the limited Speedtop concept, BMW M head Frank van Meel mentioned that while the M5 maintains strong global demand, preferences vary by region. European buyers still show a preference for the traditional sedan, whereas more Americans are choosing the long-roof variant.

      “Well, actually in Europe, there's still more preference for the sedan than the Touring,” van Meel told BMW Blog. “[The] US is the opposite. Currently, we have greater demand in the US for the Touring than for the sedan.” He noted that worldwide sales distribution between the two styles is approximately 50/50.

      “We have an extremely high demand for the new M5. Production numbers and sales are really skyrocketing,” he said. “Given the current demand, it’s not decreasing. There’s a strong pull for the M5 in the markets."

      The new M5 is not without its controversies, as some have criticized its design and others have pointed out its increasing curb weight, which exceeds that of many Ford F-150s by 1,000 pounds. Nevertheless, with its 717-horsepower hybrid V8 engine and a cargo area spacious enough for substantial loads, the Touring's allure is undeniable. It outmatches the Audi RS6 Performance by a significant 100 horsepower while still maintaining the utility expected from a wagon.

      In the US, the M5 Touring starts at $121,500. While that’s a considerable amount, it is still $5,100 cheaper than the RS6 Avant. Additionally, unlike the RS6, which has been available since 2020, the M5 Touring is a brand-new offering. For those seeking a mix of raw power and practicality, it appears to be one of the more attractive options on the market.