BMW M3 CS Touring: The pinnacle in a lighter, practical package

BMW M3 CS Touring: The pinnacle in a lighter, practical package

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BMW M has long excelled at how it strategically positions its performance vehicles, ensuring there is a model to suit every enthusiast’s needs. Take the 3 Series, for instance; if you desire speed but prefer a balance between efficiency and presence, there’s the M340i xDrive, which delivers impressive performance without the full-throttle specifications of a full-blown M car. 

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For those who want a more hardcore experience, the M3 Competition exists to fulfil that role. And for those who seek the ultimate iteration of M expertise, the CS (Competition Sport) nameplate represents the pinnacle, a lighter, more potent, and more engaging version of the M3. 

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That said, the M3 Competition Touring, which we hold in high regard, is getting the coveted CS badge for the first time, and it’s poised to showcase the same level of competency as its M3 CS sedan and M4 CS Coupe, but in an undeniably more practical format. 

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Called the M3 CS Touring, it uses the same 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that has been engineered to deliver 405kW and 650Nm. This enables the M3 CS Touring to sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds (0.4 seconds quicker than the M3 Touring) before maxing out at 300km/h, thanks to the standard M Driver’s Package it comes with. 

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Like its M3 CS sedan, this uses an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all fours via the M xDrive system. 

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The true essence of the CS nameplate is found in its weight-saving measures, which transform it into a pure track weapon. As such, the M3 CS Touring benefits a lot from the use of carbon fibre-reinforced (CFRP) plastic components on the bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, and rear diffuser. 

The interior also comes with lightweight electronic M Carbon bucket seats with an illuminated ‘CS’ model badge and surfaces in Merino leather. Other CFRP equipment includes steering wheel paddle shifters, interior trim strips, and the centre console. All these shed about 15kg over the M3 Competition Touring. For comparison, the M3 CS sedan loses about 34kg.

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To ensure occupants never forget they're in something truly special, the M3 CS Touring is adorned with exclusive M-specific details. The CS features a striking red 'CS' badge on the console, M seat belts, and model-specific door sill plates. 

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On the outside, there’s black model lettering on the upper of the two horizontal grille slats bordered by a red contour line and LED headlights that glow with the same yellow light as GT racing cars. Regarding the body shade, the CS is available in British Racing Green, Laguna Seca Blue, Frozen Solid White, or Sapphire Black Metallic. 

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When we examine the M3 as a whole, its raw, unfiltered driving experience stands out, especially in an era where electrification is becoming the norm among rivals. The upcoming M3 Touring CS promises to be yet another masterful blend of performance and practicality. And while station wagons may not be a favourite among South African buyers, this one makes a compelling case for why they should be.

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The M3 Touring CS is expected to make its local arrival in the first quarter of 2026. It will be built at the brand’s plant in Munich alongside its M3 Sedan and Touring counterparts. 

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