BMW has given its latest M5 Touring a striking police-car makeover, creating a one-off that looks ready to chase criminals on Germany’s autobahns. However, despite the flashing roof lights and familiar police colours, this high-performance estate remains a show car for now.
The project was overseen by Sascha Eifel, BMW M’s Head of Development Authority and Special Vehicle / Functional Safety, alongside former development chief Dirk Häcker.
BMW adapted its existing blue, white and fluorescent yellow police livery to accommodate the M5 Touring’s wider bodywork, muscular fenders and aggressive bumpers. The automaker’s logo also replaces the Bavarian state flag on the rear doors.
Looks, however, can be deceiving. The BMW M5 Touring police car lacks the equipment required for genuine police duty, so it isn’t ready to hit the streets.
Under the bonnet, the M5 Touring combines a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with a plug-in hybrid system, producing 717 hp and 738 lb ft of torque. It can also travel up to 65 km / 40 miles on electric power, potentially making it useful for quieter patrols in urban areas.
