2025 BMW M5 TOURING VS MERCEDES E53 AMG TOURING: BATTLE OF ULTIMATE PHEV WAGONS!

EV Channels Review

The 2025 BMW M5 Touring presents a compelling, albeit expensive, proposition in the plug-in hybrid wagon segment. While its 717 horsepower and blistering 3.3-second 0-100 km/h acceleration are undeniable highlights, its practicality and efficiency in EV mode are tempered by a relatively small 18 kWh battery, offering a rated 40 km range. Real-world testing, however, showed an impressive 60 km EV range in favorable conditions, though consumption can be high when driven aggressively. The wagon body style offers significantly more cargo space than the sedan, a key advantage. However, the M5 Touring faces stiff competition from the Mercedes-AMG E53 Touring, which is approximately $20,000 cheaper, offers a larger battery (over 20 kWh) for a longer EV range (60 km rated), and features DC fast charging capability and an opening sunroof, features the BMW lacks. The reviewer leans towards the Mercedes for its better value and practicality, despite the BMW's superior performance. The M5 Touring's Assist Plus hands-free system is also noted for its limitations, being geofenced to specific highways and less reliable in adverse weather compared to competitors.