The new M5 Touring will become the first right-hook M5 estate when it arrives in the UK in May

BMW’s new M5 Touring will become the first right-hand-drive M5 estate when it arrives in British dealerships this May.

The M5 Touring will compete against the likes of the Audi S6 Avant and Mercedes-Benz E63 Estate with power from the same highly strung 5.0-litre V10 used in the saloon.

BMW claims 0-60mph in just 4.8sec and a top speed limited to 155mph. The Touring, which will cost £67,075 in the UK, comes with BMW’s seven-speed gearbox, the electronically controlled M-differential and two power modes delivering either 400bhp or 500bhp.

Despite the estate carrying extra weight over the saloon, BMW says subtle tweaks to the suspension will ensure it’s just as engaging to drive.

The biggest change is new geometry for the rear suspension. Owing to the Touring’s flat luggage compartment, the rear suspension has been altered in line with that of standard 5-series Touring models, but with M5-specific self-levelling air springs. BMW has also modified the floorpan, with added reinforcements aiming to improve overall stiffness.

M-division insiders say the Touring has already lapped the Nürburgring in under 8min 25sec in production trim. And that would put it in on a par with the M5 saloon.

Greg Kable

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