S Poddar
The M3 Touring is already an exceptional machine, but that hasn’t stopped BMW’s M division from turning up the heat. Over the weekend, BMW officially teased the highly anticipated M3 CS Touring, giving enthusiasts a glimpse of what promises to be an even more thrilling version of the high-performance wagon.
Accompanied by the tagline ‘Fast is about to meet faster,’ the teaser makes it clear that the CS variant is all about pushing the limits. The standard M3 Touring is already capable of hitting 62 mph in under four seconds, and the Competition Sport version, which has been seen undergoing rigorous testing, is expected to shave a fraction more off that time. The updates reflect those applied to the saloon variant back in 2023, so the CS treatment should make both aesthetics and performance better.
One of the most striking updates is a more aggressive stance, but BMW has applied signature CS elements such as yellow-tinted daytime running lights and a distinctive front splitter that peeks through even the heavy camouflage. The rear seems to be largely unaltered, although it would be surprising if forged wheels and an open carbon-fiber bonnet did not make an appearance. The extensive use of lightweight materials should save some weight, but if the saloon’s CS model is any guide, the savings may be relatively modest – probably in the order of 10-15kg.
From an engineering perspective, the M3 CS Touring will be no less potent than its saloon cousin, with outputs of 550hp. Here, torque increases weren’t accompanied by any changes but the boost pressure lift that was carried over from said power increase before did yield notational improvements in longitudinal performance. Perhaps the most compelling changes, then, will actually take place in areas of chassis preparation; BMW’s outgoing CS models garnered auxiliary springs plus reinforced anti-roll bars, thus it should allow for a pointier handling ride and a very dynamic drive, too.
With any special-edition M car, exclusivity and high price tag come as part of the package. The entry price for the M3 Touring starts at £87,945, while the M3 CS saloon debuted with a £115,955 sticker. Because the Touring variant will likely have low production volumes, a starting price north of £125,000 is a reasonable assumption.
The car maker hasn’t said when it will reveal the car, but now that we have a teaser out, it can’t be far away. Might it finally appear at the Festival of Speed this year? It is still a bit early to tell, but based on BMW’s previous record, one would not be surprised if it makes a massive splash in something as iconic as that event to launch the latest performance jewel from the stables.
