There’s an upcoming high-performance BMW 5 Series wagon that enthusiasts should get excited about. However, it won’t be the traditional M5 Touring. Instead, it will be the all-electric BMW i5 Touring, which has the potential to become one of the best all-around BMWs when it finally hits the market. Recent spy photos have given us a glimpse of the i5 Touring, adding to the anticipation surrounding this electric vehicle.
In terms of styling, the BMW i5 Touring won’t deviate significantly from the regular 5 Series, so it somewhat resembles its non-electric counterpart. However, there are a few design cues that differentiate it as an electric model. One obvious hint is the absence of visible exhaust pipes. BMW generally doesn’t conceal exhausts like Mercedes and Audi do, so the lack of tailpipes suggests an electric powertrain. Additionally, the grilles are flat and devoid of air intakes, as electric vehicles require minimal front air intake. Notably, the test vehicle is adorned with prominent “Electric Test Vehicle” badges on various sides.
When it debuts, the BMW i5 Touring will likely feature similar powertrains to the current BMW i4. This means we can expect a single-motor eDrive40 variant, delivering approximately 335 horsepower, and a range-topping M60 variant with dual motors producing around 610 horsepower. However, it’s unlikely that the i5 will have an entry-level eDrive35 version like the i4. Let’s focus on the M60 version for now. Judging by the eye-catching two-tone wheels on the test mule, it’s possible that we are indeed looking at the high-performance variant. If that’s the case, the BMW i5 Touring will mark the return of a potent 5 Series wagon since the E61 M5 Touring, but this time in an all-electric form. With approximately 600 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a wagon body style, the BMW i5 Touring could become the ultimate daily driver.
In terms of design, the BMW i5 Touring is expected to showcase slimmer and more modern-looking headlights, along with simplified faux kidney grilles. Similar to the i4 and iX models, the traditional grilles will be replaced by black plastic panels, although the i5’s panels will likely resemble those of the i4, without the self-healing film found in the iX’s grille panels. Along the sides, it will feature flush-style door handles akin to the i4, as well as an appealing Hofmeister Kink.
As expected, neither the BMW i5 Touring nor the regular 5 Series Touring will be available in the United States. However, there’s a twist for American customers—the G99 M5 Touring, based on the G60 5 Series, will indeed make its way to the US market.
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