BMW is capitalizing on a resurgence of interest in wagon-style vehicles in Australia, notably with the introduction of the M3 Touring. Moreover, the German automaker has made a significant reversal in its decision-making process, opting to bring the electric i5 M60 Touring to Australian markets this August.
In 2020, the BMW 5 Series wagon was withdrawn from Australian showrooms due to its modest contribution, comprising just 4% of overall 5 Series sales. However, it continued to be available to select law enforcement agencies. Initially, it was presumed that the new 5 Series Touring wagon would not find its way to Australian shores at all. Nevertheless, BMW surprised enthusiasts by announcing the imminent return of the high-performance i5 M60 version, catering specifically to private customers.
While BMW has maintained a consistent presence with the smaller 3 Series wagon in Australia, the introduction of the M3 Touring last year, featuring a twin-turbo six-cylinder petrol engine, marked a notable expansion. Brendan Michel, BMW Australia’s head of product and market planning, explained that the success of the M3 Touring prompted a reevaluation of the brand’s approach to wagons.
Michel remarked, “What gave us the impetus to reconsider [the i5 Touring] was the positive reception of the M3 Touring. Introducing the [i5 Touring], particularly in the M60 variant we’re introducing, aligns with what we perceive as a shift in Australian consumer preferences: a high-performance wagon.”
Reflecting on past trends, Michel observed a considerable tilt towards SUVs, particularly evident in the 5 Series range. However, he expressed optimism about a potential revival of interest in the wagon segment, especially with the forthcoming i5 M60 Touring.
Set to debut in Australia in August 2024, the i5 M60 Touring represents a milestone as the second electric wagon ever offered in the country, following the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo. Equipped with dual electric motors generating up to 442kW and 820Nm, the i5 M60 Touring boasts impressive performance figures, including a claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time of 3.9 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 230km/h.
While only one electrified variant of the i5 M60 Touring will be available in Australia, the European market continues to offer a diverse range of powertrains for the 5 Series Touring, including petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrids.
