INTRODUCING THE FIRST EVER BMW M3 CS TOURING
PERFORMANCE AND PRACTICALITY PERSONIFIED
NEW BMW M3 CS TOURING
Ladies and gentl0emen, may I introduce the latest beast from Bavaria - the BMW M3 CS Touring. This isn't just any practical estate for school runs and weekend jaunts. No, this is the automotive equivalent of a Swiss Army knife: sharp, versatile and fully capable of tearing up a racetrack. In a world dominated by SUVs and crossovers, BMW has boldly kept the estate car alive for those who still appreciate the purity of a low-slung, high-performance machine that can carry both cargo and cornering speed.
Let's start with the heart of the matter - the engine. Underneath that carbon fibre bonnet, you’ll find a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine that sings with motorsport pedigree. This marvel pumps out 550 horsepower, a tidy 20 more than the M3 Competition Touring. This power increase isn’t just for show though, it’s the result of meticulous engineering, including an increased boost pressure of 2.1 bar from the M TwinTurbo technology.
The engine’s maximum torque of 650 Nm kicks in at a low 2,750 rpm and stays strong until 5,950 rpm, ensuring a broad power band that feels relentless. Whether you’re overtaking slow-moving traffic or blasting down a straight, the M3 CS Touring’s power delivery is sure to be immediate and intoxicating.
Zero to 62 mph? A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it 3.5 seconds. Need to hit 124 mph? That takes just 11.7 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 186 mph, should you find yourself on an unrestricted stretch of tarmac. Clearly, it’s a car that begs to be driven hard and it will reward you with spine-tingling performance.
BMW hasn’t just slapped more power into this car without refining the package though. The CS Touring benefits from model-specific chassis tuning, honed to perfection by BMW’s M Division. Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers works in harmony with M Servotronic steering, which provides variable assistance depending on your speed and driving mode.
The integrated braking system is going to be equally impressive, offering outstanding stopping power. The M Compound brakes come with callipers in either red or black, while those with a penchant for track days can upgrade to M Carbon ceramic brakes, which deliver exceptional fade resistance. The adjustable suspension and brakes can be fine-tuned through the car’s M Setup menu, allowing drivers to tailor their experience to road or track conditions.
Power delivery comes courtesy of an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission paired with BMW's M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This setup offers multiple personalities: a balanced 4WD mode, perfect for high-speed stability in wet conditions; a playful 4WD Sport mode, which dials in more rear bias for sharper handling and controlled oversteer; and for the purists, a 2WD mode where the rear wheels handle all the action. This last mode is ideal for heroic drifts, as it deactivates the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), giving skilled drivers the freedom to explore the car’s full potential.
Weight is the enemy of performance, so BMW has gone on a carbon fibre crusade. The bonnet, front splitter, mirror caps, rear diffuser and interior trim are all crafted from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Even the steering wheel shift paddles and M Carbon bucket seats get the lightweight treatment. These measures shave off an extra 15 kilograms over the M3 Competition Touring, ensuring that the car remains agile and responsive in all driving situations. The reduction in weight will be particularly noticeable when cornering, where the car feels planted yet eager to change direction with precision.
From the outside, the M3 CS Touring is a head-turner. The iconic kidney grille, adorned with a red contour line exclusive to the CS, sits between yellow-hued LED headlights - a nod to BMW’s motorsport history. The grille itself is frameless and minimalist, emphasising the car’s aggressive stance.
You can dress your CS in one of four striking colours: British Racing Green, which oozes heritage; Laguna Seca Blue, a fan-favourite from BMW’s motorsport past; Frozen Solid White, a matte finish that exudes modernity; or Black Sapphire metallic, for those who prefer a stealthy look. The roof and model-specific spoiler are finished in high-gloss black with a cheeky red accent, adding an extra layer of visual drama.
Inside, it’s a cockpit designed to thrill. The M Carbon bucket seats, with their illuminated “CS” badge. These seats aren’t just for show though because they offer exceptional lateral support, keeping you firmly in place during high-speed cornering. The upholstery is full Merino leather, blending luxury with durability, and the black-and-red colour scheme extends to the rear seats and door panels. M Alcantara lines the steering wheel, complete with a red centre marker to keep your eyes focused on the apex. It’s a tactile delight, enhancing the car’s sporty feel.
The BMW Curved Display, powered by Operating System 8.5, dominates the dashboard. This state-of-the-art interface combines a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display into a seamless, driver-focused setup. The M-specific view includes features like M Shift Lights, which guide your gear changes for optimal performance and widgets for tyre pressure, temperature and vehicle setup. BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant is on hand to handle voice commands, making it easier than ever to adjust settings without taking your hands off the wheel.
Standard tech is generous, with features like BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which includes a cloud-based navigation system and a Head-Up Display with M-specific content. The Harman Kardon surround sound system delivers crisp, immersive audio, whether you’re streaming your favourite playlist or listening to the engine’s glorious soundtrack. A suite of driver assistance systems, including Parking Assistant, Front Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning ensures that everyday driving is as stress-free as possible.
Of course, all this comes at a price. At £120,600 RRP, this estate isn’t for bargain hunters. But for those who want to blend everyday practicality with unrelenting performance, it’s a compelling proposition. The M3 CS Touring’s versatility is highlighted by its generous boot space, offering 500 litres with the seats up and up to 1,510 litres with them folded down. Whether you’re hauling luggage, sports equipment or the spoils of a shopping spree, this car handles it all with ease.
The first UK deliveries are slated for March 2025, so if you’re keen, best ring your local BMW dealer before the waiting list grows longer than a motorway traffic jam. Cars like this don’t come along often and it’s a rare blend of performance, luxury and practicality that’s sure to become a modern classic.
The BMW M3 CS Touring: because sometimes, you really can have it all.
