The Rivalry Renewed: BMW M5 Touring vs. Audi RS6

After more than a decade, the Audi RS6 faces a true competitor in the station wagon segment: the all-new BMW M5 Touring. Both models offer an enticing blend of performance, practicality, and luxury, making them the ideal choice for enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on their automotive dreams. Let’s delve into the details to see how these two giants stack up against each other.

Exterior Design: Elegance Meets Aggression

BMW M5 Touring

The BMW M5 Touring, returning after a long hiatus since 2010, mirrors the aesthetics of its sedan counterpart. It features aerodynamic improvements, such as redesigned front and rear bumpers, a splitter, side skirts, and a prominent spoiler. The widened track widths enhance its muscular stance:

• Front track width: +2.95 inches
• Rear track width: +1.89 inches

The Touring’s overall dimensions are slightly larger than the RS6:

Additional touches include 285/40 ZR20 tires at the front and 295/35 ZR21 at the rear, paired with unique alloy wheels and black chrome exhaust tips.

Audi RS6

The Audi RS6, despite debuting in 2019, remains visually striking with its wide, aggressive grille and sharp lines. Key features include optional 22-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and carbon ceramic discs. The Performance version further distinguishes itself with matte grey accents and enhanced aerodynamic components.

The RS6’s dimensions, while slightly smaller, maintain a commanding presence:

Interior: Luxury and Technology

BMW M5 Touring

Inside, the M5 Touring is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring leather upholstery in a variety of colors, including two-tone options. Standard features include:

• Four-zone automatic climate control
• 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system
• Curved displays: 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 14.9-inch infotainment screen
• Head-up display

However, the Touring’s practicality is slightly compromised compared to the standard 5 Series Touring, with a reduced trunk capacity:

Audi RS6

The RS6’s cabin combines minimalist elegance with cutting-edge technology. The dashboard is adorned with piano black and aluminum moldings, while dual screens handle infotainment and climate controls. Key interior features include:

• 12.3-inch instrument cluster
• 10.1-inch central display
• Customizable upholstery options, including Alcantara and carbon fiber accents

In terms of practicality, the RS6 edges out its rival with slightly more trunk space:

Performance: Power and Speed

BMW M5 Touring

The new M5 Touring boasts a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine paired with a 197-hp electric motor, delivering a combined 727 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque. Key performance stats include:

• 0-62 mph: 3.6 seconds
• 0-124 mph: 11.1 seconds
• Top speed: 189 mph

A 18.6-kWh lithium-ion battery provides up to 41.6 miles of electric range and supports up to 11 kW AC charging.

Audi RS6

Under the hood, the RS6 houses a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter mild-hybrid V8 engine. The base model delivers 600 hp and 590 lb-ft, while the Performance version ramps up to 630 hp and 627 lb-ft. Performance figures include:

• 0-62 mph: 3.4 seconds (Performance version)
• Top speed: Up to 190 mph (with RS Dynamic Plus package)

Despite its lighter weight (4,575 lbs vs. the M5’s 5,456 lbs), the RS6 offers slightly lower towing capacity and range.

Pricing and Final Thoughts

Both models are premium offerings, with price tags reflecting their capabilities:

While the RS6 offers slightly better practicality and a sleeker cabin, the M5 Touring’s hybrid powertrain and advanced features make it a compelling rival. Whichever you choose, both models deliver an unmatched blend of performance, luxury, and versatility.