BMW M3 CS Touring debuts in Australia

In the past, new models would have their global debut at one of the major motorshows around the world. These days, however, many automakers have used online channels to launch their latest models although there are still many physical events to introduce new products.

For the new BMW M3 CS Touring, the German automaker chose the legendary Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit – where the Bathurst 12-Hour endurance race is run – to make its global debut. It’s the first time that a global debut of a new BMW model has taken place in Australia.

The M3 CS Touring is the latest addition to the BMW M line-up of motorsport-derived CS models that feature increased engine power output, bespoke design features and reduced weight thanks to the use of carbonfibre reinforced plastic components.

It builds upon the success of the M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive and blends that car’s character profile with an even higher level of performance. On-board space can be used in a variety of ways and its highly dynamic driving characteristics can be experienced on both the racetrack and in numerous everyday driving situations.

Model-specific performance characteristics of the engine and power transfer via the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The high-revving 3-litre in-line 6-cylinder in-line engine includes upgraded M TwinPower Turbo technology. The charge pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers has been raised to 2.1 bar, which, combined with model-specific tweaks to engine management, enables the maximum output to reach 550 ps – a 20 ps increase on the M3 Touring Competition with M xDrive, with peak torque of 650 Nm.

Claimed numbers for the M3 CS Touring are 3.5 seconds from standstill to 100 km/h, and 11.7 seconds to 200km/h, with a top speed of 300 km/h (with standard fitment of the M Driver’s Package).

It has a specially designed engine mounting with increased spring rates that creates an exceptionally rigid connection between the engine and the vehicle’s structure. The result is even sharper engine response and a direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain.

The soundtrack from the engine comes from the M-specific exhaust system, which features electronically-controlled flaps, titanium rear silencer and weight-minimising design. The two pairs of tailpipes positioned within the rear diffuser are finished in matt black.

The chassis of the M3 CS Touring was tuned specifically to complement the powertrain’s performance characteristics. The electronically-controlled dampers of the adaptive M suspension are also in a model-specific set-up, as is the M Servotronic steering and integrated braking system. Body rigidity is further increased by the M front end strut brace in the engine compartment.

Immense stopping power is guaranteed by M Compound brakes with calipers finished in red. Customers can also opt for M Carbon ceramic brakes as an option, and the calipers of these are also finished in red.

The M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive double-spoke design (matt Gold Bronze or matt black finish) are 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, shod with 275/35 ZR19 and 285/30 ZR20 track tyres as standard.

The intelligent lightweight design plays a major role in delivering the exclusive performance attributes of the M3 CS Touring. This includes use of carbonfibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the car’s bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps and rear diffuser.

The various lightweight design measures bring a total weight saving of 15 kgs compared with the M3 Touring Competition with M xDrive.

The driver and occupants of the BMW M3 CS Touring are treated to a sports car cockpit that integrates advanced digital technology and exclusive design aspects. It is also highly practical, with up to 1,510 litres of available cargo space.

CFRP is also used inside the car for the cabin centre console, seats and steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. Model-specific highlights for the interior include electronically adjustable and heated M Carbon bucket seats for the driver and front passenger – complete with integrated head restraints and illuminated ‘CS’ model badges – an M Alcantara steering wheel in a 3-spoke design and additional CS badging on the centre console and sill plates.

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