The BMW M5 Touring Set a Record at This Year's Lightning Lap Competition
Car and Driver
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The BMW M5 Touring has achieved a remarkable feat by setting the fastest lap time of 2:55.0 at this year's Lightning Lap Competition. Boasting an impressive 717 horsepower and weighing 5477 pounds, it edges out the Audi RS Q8 by just 12 pounds for the title of the heaviest vehicle on the leaderboard. The M5 Touring showcases exceptional performance, reaching speeds up to 156.5 mph on straights and delivering impressive grip levels of 1.03 g's through turns, thanks to its Michelin Pilot Sport S5F tires. Despite challenges with tire management due to its weight and speed, the car's advanced all-wheel-drive system allows for thrilling powersliding maneuvers.
The M5 Touring's lap time places it atop the station-wagon leaderboard, outpacing competitors like the Audi RS6 Avant by a significant margin. The BMW gains nearly two seconds over the Audi, particularly excelling on long straights where its speed advantage shines. This performance underscores the potential of wagons in high-performance driving, challenging traditional perceptions that prioritize lightweight vehicles.
The M5 Touring's achievement highlights the importance
Verticals
automotivetech
Originally published on Car and Driver on 2/24/2026