The performance wagon segment just got more exciting with BMW finally bringing the M5 Touring to American shores. After decades of begging from enthusiasts, this long-roof beast now goes head-to-head with the established king of performance wagons – the Audi RS6 Avant Performance. Both represent the pinnacle of what happens when you combine family hauling practicality with supercar-level performance.
Power and Performance: Different Philosophies
BMW M5 Touring: Hybrid Muscle
The 2026 BMW M5 Touring takes a bold approach with its hybrid powertrain. At its heart sits a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 producing 577 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. But that’s just the beginning – an integrated electric motor adds 194 horsepower and 207 lb-ft, bringing total system output to a massive 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque.
This hybrid setup delivers instant torque with no turbo lag, launching the M5 Touring from 0-60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. The electric motor provides immediate punch while the V8 builds steam, creating a seamless power delivery that feels nothing like traditional hybrids.
Audi RS6 Avant Performance: Pure V8 Thunder
The Audi RS6 Avant Performance takes a more traditional approach with its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine. This proven powerplant churns out 621 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, assisted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that smooths power delivery and enables some efficiency features.
While it makes less peak power than the BMW, the RS6 Avant compensates with a 680-pound weight advantage and arguably more engaging driving dynamics. It hits 60 mph in 3.4 seconds – just two-tenths behind the heavier BMW.
Design and Styling: Beauty vs Beast
BMW M5 Touring: Aggressive Statement
The M5 Touring makes no apologies for its bold appearance. That massive illuminated kidney grille dominates the front end, while flared wheel arches and aggressive body cladding give it a muscular stance. At 200.6 inches long and 77.6 inches wide, it’s noticeably larger than its Audi rival.
The rear features a prominent spoiler and quad exhaust tips that announce its performance credentials from a distance. Love it or hate it, the M5 Touring demands attention wherever it goes.
Audi RS6 Avant Performance: Understated Menace
The RS6 Avant takes a more subtle approach to performance styling. While it features aggressive touches like the wide single-frame grille, massive air intakes, and flared fenders, the overall design remains more refined and elegant.
At 196.7 inches long, it’s more compact than the BMW while still delivering commanding road presence. The matte gray exterior accents and oval exhaust tips hint at the beast within without shouting about it.
Interior and Technology: Modern Luxury
Both wagons deliver luxury-car interiors befitting their six-figure price tags. The M5 Touring features BMW’s latest Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.9-inch infotainment screen. M-specific touches include a red 12 o’clock steering wheel marker and M1/M2 drive mode buttons.
The RS6 Avant counters with Audi’s dual-screen setup and RS-specific interior elements. Both offer premium materials, supportive sport seats, and the latest driver assistance features.
Practicality: The Wagon Advantage
Cargo Space and Utility
The M5 Touring offers 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 57.6 cubic feet with seats folded. The RS6 Avant provides a more generous 30 cubic feet initially, thanks to its more efficient packaging.
Both feature split-folding rear seats (40/20/40 configuration) and power liftgates, making them genuinely practical family haulers despite their performance focus.
Fuel Economy and Range
The M5 Touring’s hybrid system provides real-world benefits beyond performance. It offers 25 miles of electric-only range for short trips and improved fuel economy around town. EPA estimates suggest 18 mpg combined when running in hybrid mode.
The RS6 Avant relies purely on its V8, resulting in EPA ratings around 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway – typical for this class but trailing the hybrid BMW’s efficiency.
Pricing and Value
BMW M5 Touring
Starting at $127,675, the M5 Touring represents solid value considering its hybrid technology and performance. Key options include:
- M Driver’s Package: $2,500 (raises top speed to 190 mph)
- M Carbon Ceramic Brakes: $8,500
- Executive Package: $1,850
Audi RS6 Avant Performance
The RS6 Avant starts slightly higher at $128,195 but offers a more traditional ownership experience. Popular options include:
- Black Optic Package: $3,750
- RS Design Package Plus: $3,000
- Dynamic Ride Control: $2,500
Performance Specifications Comparison
| Specification | BMW M5 Touring | Audi RS6 Avant Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 + Electric | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Total Power | 717 hp | 621 hp |
| Torque | 738 lb-ft | 627 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.2 seconds | 3.4 seconds |
| Weight | 5,456 lbs | 4,902 lbs |
| Cargo Space | 27.2 cu ft | 30 cu ft |
| Starting Price | $127,675 | $128,195 |
| Top Speed | 155-190 mph | 155-190 mph |
Driving Dynamics: Track vs Road
Recent testing reveals interesting dynamics between these super wagons. The M5 Touring delivers more brutal straight-line acceleration thanks to its hybrid instant torque, but the lighter RS6 Avant often proves quicker through technical sections due to its 554-pound weight advantage.
The BMW excels on smooth surfaces where its power advantage shines, while the Audi feels more nimble and connected through tight corners. Both offer multiple drive modes to tailor the experience from comfortable daily driver to track weapon.
The Verdict: Different Tools for Different Jobs
Choosing between these super wagons depends on your priorities. The BMW M5 Touring offers cutting-edge hybrid technology, maximum power, and more aggressive styling for those who want the latest and greatest. Its 25-mile electric range and improved efficiency make it more practical for daily driving.
The Audi RS6 Avant Performance appeals to purists who prefer the immediacy and sound of a naturally-aspirated-feeling V8. Its lighter weight, more refined styling, and proven reliability make it the safe choice for those wanting traditional super wagon excellence.
Both deliver supercar performance in practical packages that can haul families and cargo with equal competence. The real winner? Enthusiasts who finally have two legitimate choices in America’s long-neglected super wagon segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which wagon is faster in a straight line?
A: The BMW M5 Touring edges out the RS6 Avant with a 3.2-second 0-60 time versus 3.4 seconds, thanks to its hybrid system’s instant torque.
Q: How much cargo space do these wagons offer?
A: The Audi RS6 Avant provides 30 cubic feet behind rear seats versus the BMW’s 27.2 cubic feet, but both expand significantly with seats folded.
Q: Are these wagons fuel efficient?
A: The M5 Touring offers better efficiency with 25 miles of electric range and hybrid operation, while the RS6 Avant averages around 18 mpg combined with pure V8 power.
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