BMW Unveils the First-Ever M3 CS Touring: A High-Performance Wagon for the Ultimate Driving Enthusiast

In a bold move that combines practicality with adrenaline-pumping performance, BMW M GmbH has introduced the first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring, a limited-edition BMW high-performance sports wagon. Set to make its global debut at the iconic Mount Panorama Circuit during the Bathurst 12 Hour race in Australia on 30 January 2025, this model is poised to redefine the boundaries of what a high-performance wagon can achieve. With its race-inspired engineering, exclusive design, and cutting-edge technology, the M3 CS Touring is a dream come true for driving purists and motorsport enthusiasts alike.

A Powerhouse on Wheels

At the heart of the BMW M3 CS Touring lies a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine equipped with M TwinPower Turbo technology. This powerhouse delivers an impressive 405 kW (550 hp) and a peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft), making it one of the most potent 550 hp touring cars ever built. The engine’s racing DNA is evident in its lightweight construction, featuring a forged crankshaft, a 3D-printed cylinder head core, and a closed-deck crankcase for maximum rigidity.

The result? A car that accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.5 seconds (3.2 seconds with the “one-foot rollout” method) and reaches a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The mid-range performance is equally thrilling, with the M3 CS Touring sprinting from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in just 2.7 seconds in 4th gear.

Precision Engineering for Ultimate Performance

The BMW M3 CS Touring is not just about raw power; it’s about delivering that power with precision. The car features an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, allowing drivers to choose between comfort-focused, sporty, and track-optimized shift settings. The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures superior traction, while the Active M Differential at the rear axle enhances handling dynamics. For those seeking a purist driving experience, the 2WD mode disengages the front axle, offering classic rear-wheel-drive thrills.

The chassis has been meticulously tuned to match the car’s performance capabilities. Adaptive M suspension, model-specific damping, and M Servotronic steering work in harmony to deliver razor-sharp handling. The M Compound brakes (with optional M Carbon ceramic brakes) provide exceptional stopping power, ensuring the car remains composed even under extreme conditions.

Lightweight Design Meets Striking Aesthetics

BMW has gone to great lengths to reduce weight and enhance performance. The M3 CS Touring features an array of carbon fibre components, including the bonnet, front splitter, air intakes, mirror caps, and rear diffuser. Inside, the M Carbon bucket seats, CFRP steering wheel paddles, and lightweight centre console further contribute to a total weight saving of 15 kg compared to the M3 Competition Touring.

The design is as striking as it is functional. The BMW M3 CS Touring boasts exclusive exterior colors like British Racing Green, Laguna Seca Blue, Frozen Solid White, and Sapphire Black metallic. The exposed carbon fibre elements, black high-gloss roof, and red-accented roof spoiler add a touch of motorsport-inspired elegance. The iconic BMW kidney grille is frameless and weight-optimized, while the LED headlights feature a distinctive yellow glow reminiscent of GT racing cars.

A Driver-Focused Cockpit with Racing Flair

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a cockpit designed to immerse you in the driving experience. The M Carbon bucket seats come with illuminated “CS” badges and are upholstered in premium Merino leather with a Black/Red theme. The M Alcantara steering wheel features a flat-bottomed rim and a red 12-o’clock marker, while the M Drive Professional system offers track-focused functions like the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer.

The latest BMW iDrive system based on Operating System 8.5 ensures intuitive control of vehicle functions, while the BMW Curved Display combines a 12.3-inch information display with a 14.9-inch control display. Drivers can customize their experience using the M Setup menu, which allows for personalized configurations of the engine, chassis, steering, and brakes.

Practicality Meets Performance

What sets the BMW M3 CS Touring apart is its ability to blend high-performance driving with everyday usability. The Touring body style offers a versatile interior with a luggage capacity ranging from 500 to 1,510 litres, making it perfect for both track days and family trips. Standard features like Comfort Access, Harman Kardon Surround Sound, and two-zone automatic climate control ensure that the car is as comfortable as it is thrilling to drive.

Limited Availability and Global Launch

The BMW M3 CS Touring will be produced in limited numbers at the BMW Group Plant Munich, alongside other M3 variants. Deliveries are set to begin in March 2025, with key markets including Europe, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. Given its exclusivity and performance credentials, the M3 CS Touring is expected to be a highly sought-after model among collectors and enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The BMW M3 CS Touring is more than just a car; it’s a statement. It combines the practicality of a touring model with the heart and soul of a race car, offering an unparalleled driving experience. Whether you’re carving through corners on a race track or cruising on the open road, the M3 CS Touring promises to deliver excitement at every turn.

Stay tuned for its world premiere at the Bathurst 12 Hour race in January 2025, where BMW will showcase this extraordinary machine to the world. For those lucky enough to secure one, the BMW M3 CS Touring will undoubtedly be a crown jewel in their automotive collection.