BMW Unveils First M3 CS Touring Ever!

For the first time ever, BMW has lifted the covers off of a more potent and visceral version of its revered M lineup that can also swallow a dog or two in the boot. Say hello to the M3 CS Touring.

Image: BMW

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Serving as a high-performance station wagon, the model expectedly combines everyday usability with more honed track-capable dynamics in a product that would be more rewarding for drivers than a super SUV. Building on the foundation of the M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive, this latest iteration dials up performance with a more powerful engine, extensive use of lightweight carbon fibre components, and bespoke chassis tuning.

At the heart of the M3 CS Touring is a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine, enhanced with race-derived technology. An extremely rigid crankcase, a lightweight forged crankshaft, and a cylinder head with a 3D-printed core allow for optimal strength and efficiency. Turbocharger pressure has been raised to 2.1 bar, increasing output to 405 kW and 650 N.m of torque. The result is a blistering 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 3.5 seconds, while 200 km/h is achieved in 11.7 seconds. BMW has also added that a specially designed engine mounting enhances response and delivers sharper power transmission, with the standard titanium rear silencer amplifying the signature M exhaust note.

Image: BMW

Power is channelled through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, allowing for adaptable shift characteristics. BMW’s M xDrive system ensures seamless power distribution between the front and rear wheels, with modes that include 4WD Sport for increased rear bias and a purist 2WD setting for an unfiltered driving experience. The Active M Differential further sharpens agility and control, particularly in high-performance driving scenarios.

Image: BMW

The Bavarian-based automaker added that chassis setup has been meticulously refined to match the car’s enhanced capabilities. The adaptive M suspension, M Servotronic steering, and integrated braking system have all been tuned specifically for this model which reportedly ensures razor-sharp handling. Standard M Compound brakes, available with red or black callipers, provide exceptional stopping power, while optional M Carbon ceramic brakes offer even greater performance. The M3 CS Touring rides on staggered M light-alloy wheels—19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear—fitted as standard with track-focused tyres.

Related: Related: R.O.C Interviews Iain Banner in the BMW iX xDrive50

Being part of the CS moniker, buyers also benefit from a significant amount of weight reduction. Carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is extensively applied to components including the bonnet, front splitter, mirror caps, and rear diffuser. Inside, M Carbon bucket seats, CFRP shift paddles, and a lightweight centre console contribute to an overall weight saving of approximately 15 kg compared to the standard M3 Competition Touring. Structural rigidity is further improved with an optional M front-end strut brace. Why buy an SUV? The M3 CS Touring retains the hallmarks of a wagon and offers between 500 and 1 510 litres of storage capacity, making it as functional as it is ferocious! Exclusive exterior finishes such as British Racing Green and Laguna Seca Blue, complemented by carbon-fibre details and a red-accented frameless kidney grille, reinforce its track-ready aesthetics. Motorsport-inspired yellow LED daytime running lights add a further nod to its racing pedigree.

Image: BMW

Inside is a digital affair that is centred around the pilot of the cockpit. The M-specific BMW Curved Display integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen running BMW Operating System 8.5. The standard M Drive Professional package includes features like the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer, as well as a 10-stage M Traction Control system. The M Mode button allows drivers to toggle between ROAD, SPORT, and TRACK settings, tailoring the car’s dynamic responses to their preferences.

Related: BMW iX Given Once Over in Life Cycle Update – Coming to SA in 2025

Standard specification includes BMW Live Cockpit Professional with an M-specific Head-Up Display, wireless smartphone integration, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, and an array of driver assistance systems such as Parking Assistant, Front Collision Warning, and Lane Departure Warning. Set to make its global debut at the Bathurst 12-Hour race today, the BMW Group Plant Munich produced model will make its way to the South African market by the conclusion of the first quarter of 2026.

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The post BMW Unveils First M3 CS Touring Ever! appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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