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Crank up the intensity, mate! BMW's M5 is a stunner, especially in its hybrid rechargeable edition, and it's flyin' off the shelves in Canada - nearly a quarter of sales are thanks to the sports division. The latest M5 model, available as a sedan and a brand-new Touring variant, embodies disruption over continuity.
Eric LeFrancois Special CollabLet's dive right into it. The seventh generation M5 is a beast, boasting 717 horses under its hood, with a discreet electric motor hidden in the left front fender. This powerhouse is surprisingly docile in town, with a light assisted steering system and a silent gasoline engine letting the electric motor do the honors on short trips (up to 40 km). Once you hit the open road, though, buckle up, ‘cause the M5 becomes a raging hurricane, ready to rocket to speeds you'd never dare to measure.
This monster of might is kept in check by an eight-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, and a slew of electronic control devices. The hefty weight (over 500 kg more than the M5 Competition) is hardly noticeable once you're behind the wheel — the M5 smoothly navigates twists and turns like a pro, forgetting its weighty past.
Embracing Practicality with the Touring
For the first time in the Americas, a Touring (family-friendly wagon) joins the M5 lineup. The Touring offers more versatility and practicality than the sedan, making it a practical choice for families or frequent travelers. Although it's not made for moving homes or coaching a youth hockey team, its future owners won't mind as they'll swoon over the M5's fiery good looks. They might not be as enamored with the copious amount of buttons and tech gimmicks that seem more focused on aesthetics than functionality.
In terms of driving dynamics, beyond the M monograms and thicker steering wheel, the atmosphere is a tad cool and "techno pop." But the Touring excels where it counts — braking power, endurance, and handling are all top-notch. The huge dimensions and large turning radius can be a bit of a hassle in the city, but it's a small price to pay for such an impressive performance vehicle.
Compared to the sedan, the Touring is a steal with a $3,000 price difference. And collectors may find it more desirable in the years to come.
OverallThe BMW M5 Touring delivers the M5's high-performance powertrain with a side of practicality, making it an appealing choice for a wider audience. If you can live with its excessive tech features and price tag of over $100,000, the M5 Touring could be the perfect ride for you. Embrace the power, forget the price, and enjoy the ride!
[1] Production Location: Germany[2] Fuel Economy: 4.4 Le/100 km (rechargeable hybrid) / 17.5 L/100 km (gasoline only)[3] CO2 Emissions: 189 g/km[4] Base Price: $135,000 (sedan) / $138,000 (Touring)[5] Impressive Features: Powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain, versatile cargo space, family-friendly wagon design.
[Tech Element]Parameterize energy recovery, transmission speed, steering assistance, or torque distribution between the axles with the flick of a switch. Get ready to impress your friends on the track, but remember, most of these functions are rarely useful on public roads.
['If you own or are waiting for one of these vehicles']La Presse is interested in hearing your experiences with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, Cadillac Vistiq, Dodge Charger (electric), Ford Maverick, Toyota 4Runner, Vinfast VF-8, and Volvo V60. Get in touch with us to share your thoughts and insights!
In the revamped BMW M5 lineup, the Touring variant, a family-friendly wagon, is now available in North America, offering more practicality and versatility compared to the sedan. This model, produced in Germany, boasts a powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain (with finance options available for potential buyers in the French industry). Whether navigating city transportation or the open highway, the M5 Touring's exceptional braking power, endurance, and handling make it a standout in the automotive industry.
