Forget the SUV, the BMW M3 CS Touring is Here to Haul Ass(ets)
Who needs a lumbering SUV when you can have a wagon that can carve corners and haul groceries with equal aplomb? BMW M has just dropped the M3 CS Touring, a fire-breathing estate that's ready to redefine what a performance wagon can be. This isn't just some warmed-over family hauler; it's a limited-production beast with more power, less weight, and a chassis honed to within an inch of its life. Forget the school run, this thing is ready for a track day.
At the heart of the M3 CS Touring lies a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, meticulously tuned to deliver a staggering 405 kW and 650 Nm of torque. This represents a significant increase over the standard M3 Touring's 390 kW and 650 Nm. The engine's power is transmitted through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, ensuring lightning-fast shifts and optimized gear ratios for both road and track driving.
The M3 CS Touring's enhanced performance is not just about raw power. BMW engineers have meticulously honed the chassis, incorporating a number of upgrades to improve handling and agility. The adaptive M suspension features electronically controlled dampers that continuously adjust to road conditions and driving style, providing optimal comfort and control. A front strut brace further enhances rigidity, minimizing body roll and maximizing responsiveness.
Stopping power is equally impressive, thanks to upgraded M Compound brakes with six-piston fixed calipers at the front and single-piston floating calipers at the rear. For even more demanding drivers, optional M Carbon ceramic brakes offer exceptional fade resistance and stopping performance.
To shed weight and enhance agility, BMW has employed extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) for components like the hood, roof, splitter, air intakes, mirror caps, and rear diffuser. Lightweight forged M light-alloy wheels, measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, further reduce unsprung mass, improving handling agility.
Inside, the M3 CS Touring features M Carbon bucket seats as standard. These lightweight seats provide exceptional lateral support during spirited driving while also contributing to the car's overall weight reduction. An M Alcantara steering wheel with carbon fiber shift paddles adds a touch of motorsport-inspired flair.
The M3 CS Touring is a fascinating paradox. It's a car that can haul groceries and kids with ease, yet it also possesses the capability to embarrass many dedicated sports cars on a track day. It's a testament to BMW M's dedication to creating vehicles that are both exhilarating and surprisingly practical. While it may not be the most affordable option in the segment, for those seeking the ultimate performance wagon, the M3 CS Touring is undoubtedly a compelling proposition.
