The automotive world is abuzz with the arrival of the first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring, a vehicle that seamlessly blends the high-octane performance of an M3 with the practicality and versatility of a Touring model. Set to make its grand debut at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, Australia, on January 30, 2025, this limited-edition marvel is poised to redefine the driving experience. Deliveries are slated to commence in March 2025, reaching customers in Europe, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and beyond, with Germany leading as its primary market. Production will take place at BMW Group Plant Munich, alongside other M3 Sedan and Touring variants.
Racing-Inspired Power: The Heart of the Beast
At the core of the BMW M3 CS Touring lies a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine, a masterpiece of engineering derived from racing technology. Its robust design, featuring a closed-deck crankcase, forged lightweight crankshaft, and 3D-printed cylinder head core, speaks volumes about its track-focused DNA. The engine’s high-revving nature, coupled with upgraded M TwinTurbo technology, pushes the boundaries of performance. With a maximum charge pressure of 2.1 bar and model-specific engine management tweaks, the power output surges to an impressive 405 kW/550 hp, a 20 hp increase over the M3 Competition Touring. Peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) is available between 2,750 and 5,950 rpm, ensuring exhilarating acceleration. This powerhouse propels the M3 CS Touring from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 3.5 seconds, and 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) in just 11.7 seconds. The M Driver’s Package, standard on this special edition, unlocks a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The M-specific exhaust system, complete with electrically controlled flaps and a titanium rear silencer, produces an emotionally charged soundtrack, adjustable through the M Setup menu.
Precision and Control: Mastering the Road
The engine’s power is channeled through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, offering three distinct shift characteristics, including a track-optimized setting. The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, with its electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, ensures optimal power distribution and traction in all conditions. The rear-wheel-biased setup, combined with the Active M Differential, enhances the car’s dynamic handling. A 4WD Sport mode allows for even greater rear-wheel power bias, while the 2WD mode offers a pure rear-wheel-drive experience with deactivated DSC. The chassis technology has been meticulously tuned to complement the engine’s performance and the car’s weight distribution. The adaptive M suspension, M Servotronic steering, and integrated braking system all feature model-specific setups. M Compound brakes, with optional M Carbon ceramic brakes, provide exceptional stopping power. Forged M light-alloy wheels, 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, are shod with track tyres as standard, with sport tyres and ultra-track tyres available as options.
Lightweight Design and Aerodynamic Excellence:
The BMW M3 CS Touring embodies intelligent lightweight design, utilizing carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the bonnet, front splitter, air intakes, mirror caps, and rear diffuser. Inside, M Carbon bucket seats, CFRP shift paddles, and interior trim contribute to weight reduction. These measures result in a 15-kilogram weight saving compared to the M3 Competition Touring. The car’s body rigidity is further enhanced by an optional lightweight M front end strut brace. The exterior design is a testament to both form and function. Exposed carbon fibre elements contrast beautifully with the available paint finishes: British Racing Green, Laguna Seca Blue, Frozen Solid White, or Sapphire Black metallic. The black high-gloss roof and roof spoiler, accented by a red surround, add a touch of elegance. The frameless BMW M kidney grille, with its red contour line and black model lettering, makes a bold statement. The LED headlights, emitting a distinctive yellow light, pay homage to GT racing cars.
Driver-Focused Interior: A Symphony of Performance and Luxury
The interior of the BMW M3 CS Touring is a driver’s paradise, combining a performance-oriented cockpit with cutting-edge technology and exclusive design elements. Electrically adjustable and heated M Carbon bucket seats, adorned with Merino leather, provide exceptional support. The M Alcantara steering wheel, with its red centre marker, evokes the spirit of motorsport. The M-specific Setup button allows for personalized adjustments to the engine, chassis, steering, brakes, and M xDrive. The M Drive Professional system, complete with M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer, caters to track enthusiasts. The latest BMW iDrive system, based on Operating System 8.5, offers intuitive control through the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. BMW Live Cockpit Professional, including the BMW Head-Up Display, BMW Maps navigation, and smartphone integration, enhances the driving experience.
Summary/Specs List:
- Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line with M TwinTurbo technology
- Power: 405 kW/550 hp
- Torque: 650 Nm (479 lb-ft)
- Transmission: Eight-speed M Steptronic with Drivelogic
- Drivetrain: M xDrive all-wheel drive
- 0-100 km/h (62 mph): 3.5 seconds
- 0-200 km/h (124 mph): 11.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 300 km/h (186 mph) (with M Driver’s Package)
- Weight Saving: Approximately 15 kg compared to M3 Competition Touring
Source: BMW
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
