BMW M5: M5 estate in UK by Spring

BMW is launching an estate version of the M5, and for the first time in the model’s history it will be sold in the UK and in right-hand drive. The Touring arrives in British showrooms this May priced at £67,075.

Mechanically the M5 Touring is largely the same as the saloon (500bhp V10, seven-speed paddle-shift, M differential). However, the rear suspension is modified with self-levelling air springs, while extra strengthening has gone into the flat boot floor to increase rigidity.

The claimed 0-62mph time is 4.8sec, just 0.1sec slower than the saloon, while all-round performance is said to be on a par.

Meanwhile there have been a raft of improvements to the 5-series range as a whole, including engines updated with BMW’s High-Precision Injection system, tweaks to the six-speed auto ’box, a subtle facelift and higher quality interior fittings.