BMW has outdone itself with the M3 CS Touring. It has combined racing performance with everyday practicality, creating a vehicle that is as impressive on the racetrack as it is on family outings. For the first time ever, the iconic M3 is also available as a station wagon in the CS version. This means that brutal acceleration and superb driving dynamics are combined with more luggage space and additional practicality.
Under the hood lies the most notorious inline six-cylinder in the M-segment, acceleration is faster than some supercars, and the space is large enough for a weekend getaway to the Nürburgring or a summer vacation in the Alps. BMW M3 CS Touring is a car that will put a smile on the face of every true car enthusiast.
The BMW M3 CS Touring has an engine with motorsport technology
Under the hood is a 3.0-liter S58 inline-six engine with two mono-scroll turbochargers that produces 550 hp (405 kW) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. That's 15 kW (20 hp) more than in the M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive.
The engine uses motorsport-derived technology: an ultra-rigid aluminum block, a forged lightweight crankshaft, and innovative iron-coated cylinders for reduced friction. The turbochargers operate at an increased 2.1 bar of boost pressure, resulting in brutal responsiveness and constant power delivery up to 7,200 rpm.
The numbers speak for themselves. The M3 CS Touring reaches 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, 200 km/h in 11.7 seconds, and the top speed is electronically limited to 300 km/h. Using the “one-foot rollout” methodology often used by Americans, the M3 CS Touring only needs 3.2 seconds to reach 100 km/h!
As befits a top-of-the-line M masterpiece, the power doesn't just go straight to all four wheels – the driver has full control over how he wants to experience the driving dynamics. The BMW M3 CS Touring features advanced M xDrive all-wheel drive, which variably distributes the torque between the axles and ensures optimum traction.
The drivetrain offers three driving modes. The first is classic 4WD, which provides maximum traction, the second is 4WD Sport, where more power is sent to the rear axle, and the third is 2WD mode, where power is directed exclusively to the rear wheels, with DSC completely switched off. For those who enjoy the art of sliding through corners, this is the perfect recipe for fun.
Power is transmitted via an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission, which enables extremely fast gear changes and offers three operating modes – from comfortable cruising to extremely sharp shifting suitable for the racetrack.
Lightweight construction and optimized chassis
Despite its practical station wagon shape, the BMW M3 CS Touring is extremely lightweight, which the engineers achieved through extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). The bonnet, roof, front splitter, mirrors, air vents, rear diffuser and bucket seats are all made from this lightweight yet extremely durable material. The result is a weight saving of 15 kg compared to the M3 Competition Touring.
The chassis is tuned for racing performance. The M adaptive suspension provides an extremely precise ride, while offering a variety of settings to ensure optimal performance on the road and track. The steering is sharper than in the standard M3 Touring, while the improved Active M Differential ensures optimal traction in all conditions.
The brakes are designed for extreme conditions. M Compound brakes with black or red calipers are available as standard, while M Carbon Ceramic brakes are optionally available, which are extremely heat-resistant and offer racing performance.
Interior with a touch of the racetrack
The interior of the BMW M3 CS Touring is not only functional, but also an aesthetic masterpiece. The M Carbon bucket seats upholstered in Merino leather offer exceptional support during dynamic driving. The M Alcantara steering wheel with red center marker and carbon inserts on the center console and gearshift paddles further emphasize the sporty character.
The cabin is equipped with the latest BMW iDrive 8.5, which is operated via a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen. The system offers personalized driving settings, including configuration of the drivetrain, suspension, brakes and stabilization.
In addition, the M3 CS Touring offers an impressive luggage compartment measuring from 500 to 1,510 liters, meaning the car is ready for both the racetrack and longer journeys.
Limited edition and high price
BMW isn't revealing the exact number of units produced, but we do know that the M4 CS was limited to 1,700 units, so we can expect similar exclusivity for the M3 CS Touring. The price in Germany is €152,900 (approximately 159,000 $), making it one of the most expensive M3 models ever.
First deliveries will begin in March 2025, with the largest number of units sold in Germany, Europe, Australia, Japan and South Korea.
Conclusion: BMW M3 CS Touring
The BMW M3 CS Touring is a car that pushes all boundaries – offering wild performance, an uncompromising driving experience and the space for everyday use. It is the holy grail of all M3 Touring models and probably the last of its kind before electrification.
It is the most ultimate M estate car ever, created for those who want to combine driving pleasure with practicality. If you want the most exclusive and powerful M3 Touring model, don't delay - production will be strictly limited, and the price is likely to only increase over time. The BMW M3 CS Touring is a dream car for those who dare to live fast.
