More about BMW 5 Series Towbars
The BMW 5 series has a huge towing capacity, so ultimately towing with a caravan is a breeze. It’s quick with TwinPower Turbo and eDrive technology; the BMW 5 series is stable and responsive in an emergency.
Independent research suggests that this vehicle is one of the fastest accelerations vehicles whilst towing a caravan. It goes from 0 to 62mph in only 5.9 seconds. The 5 series can pull away quickly without any wheelspin due to the four-wheel-drive system. This incredible power is paired with intelligent lightweight construction and superb xDrive handling to deliver an impeccable experience.
Obviously, safety is more important than speed; however, the engine’s 457lb-ft of torque makes towing easy with so much muscle in reserve, and it’s extremely stable at speed.

What’s my Towing Capacity?
Dependant on the 5 series model, the towing capacity is approx. 1700kg to 2000kg; however, this can vary on each vehicle, so you should read and check your VIN Plate before towing anything. The best way to receive an accurate towing capacity for your vehicle is by checking your vin plate. This is usually located under the bonnet or on the passenger door sill. Our sales team will be happy to help if you need any further assistance.
Which Towbar is best for my vehicle?
All three towbar types are available for the BMW 5 Series and dependant on what you are towing, and the individual vehicle depends on which Towbar to choose. If your 5 series have parking sensors, we will always recommend you have a detachable towbar fitted. When you aren’t towing, you can remove the neck section of the Towbar, so that it won’t interfere with your parking sensors or camera.
The fixed flange towbar is an excellent option for those who do not wish to remove the Towbar after they have finished towing, although the chunkier design is known for causing some interference from the rear parking sensors. The fixed flange towbar is great for pairing with towing accessories such as bumper protector plates and bolt on cycle carriers. The accessories use the bolt on plate at the rear of the towbar meaning the driver is able to use the accessories at the same time as towing.
The fixed swan neck towbar has a thinner towbar neck to the fixed flange towbar and therefore is less likely to be detected by parking sensors; however, this is not guaranteed. This is a great option for those who prefer a sleeker-looking towbar but do not want to remove it after towing is completed. The fixed swan neck is compatible with all ALKO stabilisers and can be used with all cycle carriers that clamp on to the towball.
The detachable swan neck towbar is the perfect choice for those who want to protect their vehicle's aesthetic. Once towing is completed, the towbar neck can be removed, and the Towbar will appear practically invisible. The towbar neck is removed by unlocking the neck and using a twist and push action. The detachable towbar is also compatible with all ALKO stabilisers and all clamp on style cycle carriers.
Will it need a bumper cut?
During fitment, the bumper will be removed, and the Towbar and electrics fitted. There won’t be a bumper cut; however, there is a cut on the undertray. If you require any further information about the bumper cut to your vehicle, please call our customer service team, who will help.
