By Malusi Msomi

BMW has unveiled the first-ever M3 CS Touring, a high-performance variant of the M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive. The new model builds on the established strengths of the M3 Touring, incorporating extensive weight-saving measures and a more powerful engine for enhanced track-focused performance.

Performance and powertrain

The BMW M3 CS Touring is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine, producing 405 kW and 650 Nm of torque. This is an increase of 15 kW over the M3 Competition Touring. The engine features advanced race-inspired technology, including a rigid crankcase, forged lightweight crankshaft, and a 3D-printed cylinder head core. A specially designed engine mounting enhances response and power transmission.

The M3 CS Touring accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in 11.7 seconds. Using the “one-foot rollout” method, these times improve to 3.2 seconds and 11.4 seconds, respectively. The top speed is electronically limited to 300 km/h, facilitated by the standard M Driver’s Package.

A tuned M-specific exhaust system, with titanium rear silencer and electrically controlled flaps, enhances the acoustic character of the M3 CS Touring, adapting to the selected drive mode.

Transmission and drivetrain

The engine is paired with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission featuring Drivelogic, which offers three selectable shift characteristics. The car’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system incorporates an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch for variable power distribution between the front and rear wheels. The Active M Differential further optimizes traction and handling, particularly in track scenarios.

Drivers can select from multiple drivetrain configurations, including 4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD mode, with the latter providing a rear-wheel-drive experience when the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system is deactivated.

Chassis and suspension

The M3 CS Touring features a model-specific chassis setup tailored to its power output and weight distribution. The adaptive M suspension system includes electronically controlled dampers, while the M Servotronic steering and integrated braking system offer precise handling. The DSC system and M Dynamic Mode have been calibrated for circuit performance.

The car is equipped with M Compound brakes, available with Red or Black calipers. M Carbon ceramic brakes are an option, with calipers in either Red or matte Gold. Standard forged M light-alloy wheels, available in matte Gold Bronze or matte Black, measure 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. Track tyres are fitted as standard, with sport tyres offered as a no-cost alternative.

Lightweight construction and aerodynamics

To enhance performance, BMW has incorporated carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) across various components. The bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, mirror caps, and rear diffuser are all made from CFRP. The M Carbon bucket seats, steering wheel shift paddles, interior trim, and centre console further reduce weight. These measures contribute to a 15 kg weight reduction compared to the M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive.

Exterior and design

The M3 CS Touring features an aggressive design with aerodynamically optimized elements. The frameless BMW M kidney grille has a weight-saving construction with a red contour line and black model lettering. The LED headlights illuminate in yellow, inspired by BMW’s GT racing cars.

Four exclusive paint options are available: British Racing Green, Laguna Seca Blue, Frozen Solid White, and Sapphire Black metallic. The roof and model-specific roof spoiler are finished in high-gloss Black, while the roof spoiler is outlined in red.

Interior and tech

The driver-focused cockpit includes M Carbon bucket seats with integrated head restraints and illuminated “CS” badging. The M Alcantara steering wheel features a flat-bottomed rim and a red 12-o’clock marker. Interior upholstery is finished in Black and Red Merino leather.

The BMW M3 CS Touring is equipped with BMW Live Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch control display running BMW Operating System 8.5. The M-specific interface includes M Shift Lights, performance data, and setup customization through the M Drive Professional system.

Standard tech includes:

BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific content

BMW Maps navigation system

Harman Kardon Surround Sound System

Two-zone automatic climate control

Comfort Access and alarm system

Wireless smartphone integration

Driver assistance features include Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Parking Assistant, and Driving Assist systems.

Market introduction

Production of the BMW M3 CS Touring will take place at BMW Group Plant Munich, alongside the other M3 variants. The model is expected to arrive in South Africa in the first quarter of 2026.