BMW Unveils New M5 and M3 Touring: Powerful Hybrid and First Estate Model in Decades

BMW enthusiasts were treated to a double surprise at the recent M Fest held at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in South Africa. The German automaker showcased the eagerly anticipated, all-new M5 with a groundbreaking hybrid powertrain and introduced the country to its first-ever M3 Touring model, marking a significant milestone in BMW’s high-performance lineup.

M5: A Bold Step into Hybrid Territory

The new M5, based on the G90 5 Series, has stirred excitement and some controversy, as it’s the first M5 model in the 40-year history of the lineup to feature a hybrid powertrain. Introduced in June, this version not only carries the distinction of being the heaviest M5 yet, tipping the scales at a hefty 2,435 kg—540 kg more than the previous generation—but it also pushes BMW’s powertrain technology forward with significant electric capability.

Under the hood, the M5 retains its classic 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 430 kW of power—30 kW less than the previous F90 M5 Competition model—while maintaining the same torque of 750 Nm. However, the hybrid system, with an 18.6 kWh lithium-ion battery and an electric motor located on the rear axle, contributes an impressive additional 145 kW and 280 Nm of torque.

When combined, the new M5 boasts an extraordinary total output of 535 kW and a peak torque of 1,000 Nm. BMW claims this level of power translates to a top speed of 250 km/h, or 305 km/h with the optional M Driver’s Package, and a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.5 seconds. The drivetrain channels power through a hybrid-optimized, eight-speed Steptronic transmission, which also houses the electric motor and features a unique pre-gearing stage, allowing short bursts of up to 450 Nm.

The M5’s Boost mode—activated by holding the upshift paddle—unleashes the entire power package for 10 seconds, making it an exhilarating experience. This plug-in hybrid model includes a standard 7.4 kW onboard charger, providing an estimated 69 km of electric-only driving range. Currently, only the M5 sedan is available in South Africa, while plans for the M5 Touring remain unconfirmed.

M3 Touring: BMW’s First Performance Estate Model in Decades

While the M3 Touring was initially introduced in global markets two years ago, it was only approved for the South African market last year as a limited-edition model. Designed to rival the Audi RS4 Avant, this M3 Touring model builds on the M3 Competition variant and packs the same 3.0-liter straight-six S58 turbocharged engine, which produces 390 kW and 650 Nm of torque. Power is routed to all four wheels through an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, propelling the vehicle from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds. The M Driver’s Package boosts the car’s top speed from 250 km/h to 280 km/h.

Equipped with Adaptive M suspension, an Active M differential, M Compound brakes, and an M exhaust system, the M3 Touring offers a high-performance experience without compromising on practicality. The estate boasts an impressive 500 liters of cargo space, expandable to 1,510 liters with the rear seats folded down, a substantial increase over the M3 sedan’s 480-liter capacity.

Pricing and Availability

Both the M5 and M3 Touring are now on sale in South Africa, each coming with a five-year/100,000 km maintenance plan. Pricing is set at R2,218,841 for the M3 Touring and R2,690,000 for the M5.

With these new additions, BMW demonstrates its commitment to blending high performance with cutting-edge technology and versatility, setting a new standard in the luxury sports car market. The arrival of the M3 Touring and hybrid M5 redefines what’s possible for the brand’s legendary M lineup, promising South African drivers the latest in power, style, and utility.

Key Features For BMW M5 and BMW M3 Touring

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