Introduction: BMW M5 Touring 2025 vs Audi RS5
When it comes to high-performance luxury cars, few match the drama, design, and raw power of BMW’s M division and Audi’s RS lineup. In 2025, two iconic models collide in a battle of speed, sophistication, and usability:
The BMW M5 Touring 2025 — a return to form for BMW, now offering supercar performance in a wagon body.
The Audi RS5 Sportback 2025 — a five-door coupe that mates Audi Quattro poise with outright RS aggression.
Both are all-wheel-drive brutes, full of cutting-edge tech and relentlessly loud. But which one really delivers the most well-rounded experience? Let’s find out.
1. Design & Exterior Styling
BMW M5 Touring 2025
- Wider fenders, quad exhaust tips, large grille
- Discreet rear spoiler and retro long-roof shape
- 20- or 21-inch M wheels with staggered setup
Audi RS5 Sportback 2025
- 5-door practicality with coupe-like outline
- Gloss black trim, honeycomb grille, OLED taillights
- 19- or 20-inch forged wheels, carbon fiber kit optional
- Verdict:
- M5 Touring exudes stealth wealth with its long-roof profile.
- RS5 Sportback appears more sculpted and expressive.
Winner: Tie — Elegance vs aggression.
2. Engine & Performance
BMW M5 Touring
- 4.4L twin-turbo V8
- ~617 hp, 553 lb-ft torque
- 0–60 mph in 3.4 seconds
- xDrive AWD with RWD mode
⚡ Audi RS5 Sportback
- 2.9L twin-turbo V6
- 444 hp, 443 lb-ft torque
- 0–60 mph in 3.8 seconds
- Quattro AWD, fixed torque split
Winner: BMW M5 Touring – Raw power and configurability set it apart.
3. Driving Experience
| Aspect | M5 Touring | RS5 Sportback |
| Steering Feel | Hydraulic-like, precise | Lighter, electric |
| Suspension | Adaptive M Suspension | RS-tuned adaptive ride |
| Drive Modes | Comfort, Sport, Track, Config M | Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, RS Modes |
| AWD | Configurable (xDrive + RWD) | Full-time Quattro |
Winner: BMW M5 Touring – More dynamic and configurable feeling.
4. Interior Quality & Tech
- 12.3″ digital cluster + 14.9″ curved touchscreen
- BMW iDrive 8.5 with fast swipe interface
- M-specific displays, carbon trim
- Ambient lighting, ventilated seats, full Merino leather
Audi RS5 Sportback
- 12.3″ Virtual Cockpit, 10.1″ center display
- MMI Touch with haptic feedback
- Alcantara & Nappa leather combination
- Optional RS design packages
Winner: Tie – Audi for clarity of layout; BMW for size and integration of technology.
5. Space & Practicality
| Spec | M5 Touring | RS5 Sportback |
| Seating | 5 adults | 5 adults |
| Rear Legroom | ~36.5 in | ~35 in |
| Cargo Space | ~20.5 cu ft (seats up) | ~22 cu ft (hatchback access) |
| Rear Folding Seats | Yes | Yes |
M5 Touring provides more conventional cargo space.
RS5 Sportback provides easier loading with its hatch and concealed depth.
Victor: RS5 Sportback – Slightly more practical for daily use.
6. Infotainment & Connectivity
| Feature | BMW M5 Touring | Audi RS5 Sportback |
| Display | 14.9” Curved | 10.1” MMI |
| Audio | Harman Kardon / Bowers & Wilkins | Bang & Olufsen 3D |
| Voice Assistant | BMW Intelligent Assistant | Alexa / MMI Voice |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Wireless | Wireless |
| HUD | Yes | Yes |
Winner: BMW M5 Touring – Larger screen, better UI, more customization.
7. Fuel Efficiency
| Model | MPG (City/Hwy) |
| BMW M5 Touring | ~15 / 21 (est.) |
| Audi RS5 Sportback | 18 / 25 |
Winner: Audi RS5 Sportback
8. Price & Trims
| Model | Starting MSRP |
| BMW M5 Touring 2025 | ~$112,000+ |
| Audi RS5 Sportback 2025 | ~$79,800+ |
BMW is firmly in full super sedan territory.
Audi offers phenomenal performance at a discount.
Winner: Audi RS5 Sportback – More affordable and better value for most buyers.
9. Safety & Driver Assistance
Both models include high-end features like:
- Adaptive cruise
- Lane centering
- Traffic jam assist
- Surround-view cameras
- Parking sensors
- BMW includes more adjustable M features and advanced autonomous aids (in higher trim levels), while Audi preserves a minimalist and streamlined look.
Winner: Tie
✅ Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
| Performance | BMW M5 Touring |
| Handling | BMW M5 Touring |
| Interior Design | Tie |
| Practicality | Audi RS5 Sportback |
| Fuel Economy | Audi RS5 Sportback |
| Infotainment | BMW M5 Touring |
| Price/Value | Audi RS5 Sportback |
Purchase the BMW M5 Touring 2025 for unmatched power, exclusivity, and high-end luxury.
Choose the Audi RS5 Sportback 2025 for an even more balanced, stylish, and budget-friendly daily driver.
Read More FAQ About – BMW M5 Touring 2025 vs Audi RS5
Is the BMW M5 Touring available in the US?
Yes! For the first time in years, BMW is bringing the M5 Touring to North America — offering American buyers a performance wagon experience hitherto exclusive to Europe.
How does the RS5 differ from the RS6 Avant?
The RS5 Sportback is smaller and less expensive than the RS6 Avant. It offers similar RS-style looks and Quattro handling but in lighter, city-friendly trim.
Is the M5 Touring an option for manual transmission?
No. The M5 Touring is equipped with an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic with paddle shifters and launch control.
Which car is more fun to drive?
The BMW M5 Touring is more aggressive and tail-happy with its switchable AWD system. The RS5 is more planted and predictable in corners, ideal for stability.
Which one holds better resale value?
Historically, BMW M cars depreciate faster due to higher pricing, but wagons often hold unique collector value. Audi RS models have solid resale due to brand loyalty and timeless design.
How does the tech compare in real-world use?
BMW’s iDrive is more customizable and immersive, especially with M-specific modes and HUD overlays. Audi’s MMI system is simpler but less engaging for performance-focused users.
Which is better for families?
While neither is a family-first model, the M5 Touring’s larger cargo space and level load floor offer more practicality for weekend road trips or daily life.
Do either have OTA updates?
Yes, BMW and Audi both offer over-the-air updates for infotainment, navigation, and certain system functions.
What are owner’s opinions?
BMW M5 Touring: “Incredible highway pull and sleeper style. Worth every penny if you love wagons.”
Audi RS5 Sportback: “Looks amazing, sounds wonderful, and is just fine as a daily.”
