Why the BMW M5 Touring Skips the Carbon Roof: Unpacking the Surprising Decision

When the BMW M3 Touring was unveiled a couple of years ago, automotive enthusiasts held their breath for innovative features that could revolutionize both performance and style. However, disappointment soon followed as the carbon roof that many had anticipated was nowhere to be found. Fast forward to the recent launch of the BMW M5 Touring, and the absence of a lightweight carbon roof is still a bone of contention among fans. Instead, buyers are greeted with a standard metal roof, or, if they're feeling luxurious, the option of a panoramic sunroof.

This leaves many asking: why is BMW making this choice for the G99 M5 Touring? To get to the bottom of it, we reached out directly to BMW for answers. To our surprise, the reasoning is remarkably consistent with what they communicated regarding the M3 Touring: re-configuring the assembly line to accommodate a carbon fiber roof was deemed too complex and costly. In a world where every kilogram matters, could the absence of this feature mark a significant oversight?

A Niche Luxury Product

The BMW M5 Touring does indeed hold a certain allure, now available for North American markets. But with a price tag that resembles a premium item rather than an everyday vehicle, it’s likely to appeal to a limited audience. BMW analyzed the production numbers and determined that integrating a carbon fiber roof into the manufacturing process would not justify the cost relative to the potential sales volume. As it stands, the M5 Touring will be assembled in Dingolfing, sharing the production lines with its sedan counterpart that only recently began its manufacturing journey.

Adding to the complexity of the M5 Touring’s existence is the iron law of niche markets—the more exclusive and limited a vehicle, the more costly it tends to be. This has resulted in the M5 gaining a personality that may not resonate with the masses but sparks fascination among die-hard BMW fans and luxury car aficionados alike. Furthermore, the assembly of the M5 wagon alongside more mainstream models like the M3 may breed concerns about the optimal allocation of resources—yet as a whole, this strategy seems to be BMW's way of maintaining production efficiency while still catering to a more specialized demand.

Does the Weight Matter?

One argument often raised in favor of carbon fiber roofs is the significant impact on vehicle weight. However, when it comes to the M5 Touring, the reality is somewhat murky. If you had opted for the lightweight roof on the standard M5 Sedan, you’d experience a minor reduction of about 30 kilograms (66 pounds). However, when you're working with a vehicle that weighs approximately 2,475 kilograms (5,456 pounds), that small reduction in weight, while appreciated, may not create drastic changes in driving dynamics. In fact, the slight increase in center of gravity could ultimately lead to negligible differences in handling.

For most drivers, this nuance may not even be perceptible. Moreover, many enthusiasts might consider the aesthetic advantages that come with opting for a panoramic sunroof over a carbon roof that not only contributes to weight reduction but might also limit the sense of openness inside the cabin. In a lifestyle where comfort and illumination often trump sheer performance, many may prefer the option that allows natural light to flood over the interior.

The Glass Roof Option: A Compromise for Performance Faction

BMW addresses these needs with an optional glass roof that expands the roofline, flooding the interior with brightness while offering a sensation of space and sophistication. Positioned as a body-mounted module that extends deeply into the rear section of the car, it adds an air of elegance that resonates with luxury seekers. It’s even equipped with an electrically controlled roller blind for those moments when the sun shines a little too bright, maintaining a balance of style and practicality.

The Aftermarket Rush for Carbon

While the M5 Touring might not come equipped with a carbon roof, those impassioned by performance vehicles have options. The less powerful M340i does come with a carbon fiber roof, albeit only in its sedan configuration. Interestingly, there's already a trend underway with aftermarket tuners who are crafting solutions for M3 Touring owners eager to add a carbon panel despite BMW's reservations. Speculation abounds that similar modifications will soon emerge for the M5 Touring as well.

Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds?

In conclusion, the absence of a carbon roof on the BMW M5 Touring may feel like a letdown for some—especially considering the hype around lightweight materials. Yet, the inherent complexities of assembly and production costs dictate these decisions. The allure of the M5 Touring stands not just in its performance metrics but in the lifestyle it represents, replete with elegance and functionality. Wherever the journey takes you—whether you choose the glass or metal option—it remains evident that the M5 Touring is poised to capture the attention of luxury car aficionados and everyday drivers alike.