3 Minutes
BMW M5 2026: Higher Price, Exceptional Performance
The 2026 BMW M5 is making headlines as it enters the market with a price increase of $2,400 over the previous year's model. Effective July 1, 2025, BMW's iconic high-performance sedan and wagon will begin at $121,900 and $123,900 respectively—excluding destination charges. Even with this latest adjustment, the M5 undercuts some of its closest rivals, maintaining a strong position within the luxury sports car segment.
A Price-to-Performance Powerhouse
Despite the price bump, the BMW M5 continues to offer thrilling performance that justifies its cost. The nearest competitor, the Audi RS 6 Avant, comes in at a steeper $126,600 for the 2025 model year, making the M5 a relatively more attainable high-performance wagon or sedan. While the Audi currently offers a pure combustion engine, upcoming plug-in hybrid variants for the RS 6 are on the horizon to rival BMW’s latest advancements.
Powertrain and Performance: A Next-Gen Hybrid M Experience
The 2026 BMW M5 marks a significant milestone as the first plug-in hybrid version of the legendary M5. Although it tips the scales heavier than some half-ton pickups, the M5 doesn’t sacrifice agility or power. Under the hood, the hybridized powertrain combines a potent internal combustion engine with an electric motor delivering instant torque. Together, they produce a formidable 717 horsepower (hp) between 5,600–6,500 rpm and an astonishing 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque at 1,800–5,400 rpm. The electric drive unit contributes 194 hp and 207 lb-ft (280 Nm), with effective torque reaching 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) due to pre-gearing. Real-world acceleration figures suggest the new M5 is faster than its predecessor, despite BMW’s tradition of conservative performance claims.
Design and Body Styles: Wagon Versus Sedan
For 2026, the M5 continues to offer both sedan and wagon (Touring) configurations, catering to varied global markets. In the United States, the M5 Touring wagon is gaining significant popularity, while European customers still prefer the sedan. Global demand for the G90 (sedan) and G99 (wagon) is believed to be nearly even, reflecting the versatile appeal of BMW’s flagship M models.
Luxury Options and Customization
Building your ideal M5 can quickly raise the price, thanks to a plethora of premium features and packages. Paint options alone can add $5,000, while the Carbon Package is a $3,100 upgrade designed to enhance the vehicle’s sporting credentials. For advanced safety and convenience, the Driving Assistance Professional Package is available at $1,700.
The $1,850 Executive Package stands out as a favorite among luxury seekers. This bundle equips the M5 with ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, power rear and side-window shades, and the distinctive BMW Iconic Glow illuminated kidney grille. Additional highlights include an advanced interior camera, Parking Assistant Plus, and Parking View with 3D functionality, adding another layer of value to the well-appointed M5.
Market Positioning and Comparison
The 2026 BMW M5’s price increase still keeps it competitive against high-performance luxury wagons and sedans like the Audi RS 6 Avant, especially considering the M5’s innovative plug-in hybrid system and dynamic performance. Only the BMW XM Label delivers more output within BMW’s current lineup, while the Alpina XB7 holds the crown for the most powerful version of BMW's S68 engine.
Whether you’re after exhilarating driving dynamics, state-of-the-art hybrid engineering, or customizable luxury, the new M5 continues to be a top contender in the world of high-performance sports sedans and wagons.
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