The BMW M3 Touring (G81 LCI), specifically the CS 3.0 variant with 550 horsepower and M xDrive all-wheel drive paired with the M Steptronic 8-speed automatic transmission, represents the pinnacle of performance within the G81 LCI Touring model range. Introduced for the 2025 model year, this vehicle combines the practicality of a station wagon (estate) with the high-performance capabilities traditionally associated with the M3 badge. It is the first official M3 Touring model offered by BMW, addressing a long-standing request from enthusiasts. The “LCI” designation signifies a Life Cycle Impulse, or facelift, bringing updated styling and technology to the G81 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M3 |
| Generation | M3 Touring (G81 LCI, facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | CS 3.0 (550 Hp) M xDrive M Steptronic |
| Start of production | January, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 10.5 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 22.4 US mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 26.9 UK mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (km/l) | 9.5 km/l |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 238 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 300 km/h (186.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 297.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 351.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 550 Hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 183.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 2750-5950 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 2750-5950 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC, Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2330 kg (5136.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1510 l (53.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4796 mm (188.82 in.) |
| Width | 1918 mm (75.51 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2068 mm (81.42 in.) |
| Height | 1447 mm (56.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2857 mm (112.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1623 mm (63.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Front overhang | 861 mm (33.9 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1078 mm (42.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 121 mm (4.76 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission M Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Front tires | 275/35 ZR19 100Y XL |
| Rear tires | 285/30 ZR20 99Y XL |
| Front wheel rims | 9.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 10.5J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The BMW M3 Touring (G81 LCI) CS 3.0 represents a significant addition to the M3 lineage, finally offering a high-performance touring variant. Built on the G81 platform, which debuted in 2022, the CS model is positioned as the most powerful and track-focused version of the M3 Touring. The LCI facelift brings subtle styling updates, enhanced technology, and refined interior appointments. This variant caters to drivers seeking the exhilarating performance of an M3 combined with the practicality and space of a station wagon, a combination previously unavailable from BMW.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the M3 Touring CS lies the S58 3.0-liter inline-six engine, a powerplant renowned for its responsiveness and power delivery. This engine utilizes BMW’s M TwinPower Turbo technology, employing twin scroll turbochargers and direct fuel injection to produce 550 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) of torque between 2,750 and 5,950 rpm. The engine features VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing for optimized efficiency and performance. The engine code is consistent with other high-output S58 variants. The M Steptronic 8-speed automatic transmission is specifically tuned for rapid and precise gear changes, featuring Drivelogic which allows the driver to select from different shift programs. The transmission is integral to the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles for optimal traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The M3 Touring CS delivers a thrilling driving experience characterized by its potent acceleration and agile handling. The M xDrive system, typically rear-biased, provides exceptional grip and allows for controlled power delivery even in challenging conditions. The 8-speed M Steptronic transmission offers both seamless automatic shifting and the ability for the driver to take full control with paddle shifters. Compared to the standard M3 Touring, the CS benefits from a more aggressive suspension setup and optimized weight distribution, resulting in sharper turn-in and reduced body roll. While the automatic transmission may not offer the same level of engagement as a manual gearbox, its speed and efficiency contribute to the car’s impressive performance figures, achieving a 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M3 Touring CS comes standard with a comprehensive array of performance and luxury features. Interior appointments include M Sport seats upholstered in Merino leather, carbon fiber trim accents, and M-specific badging. Standard technology includes BMW’s iDrive 8 infotainment system with a curved display, a head-up display, and a premium sound system. Optional extras include a carbon fiber roof, upgraded brake systems, and a wider range of interior customization options. The CS trim focuses on weight reduction, utilizing carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in various body panels and interior components.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the M3 Touring CS is engineered for maximum performance. It features a reinforced body structure, adaptive M suspension, and M Compound brakes with ventilated discs at all four corners. The rear suspension incorporates a multi-link design for precise wheel control and enhanced ride comfort. The M Servotronic steering system provides variable steering assistance, offering increased responsiveness at higher speeds. The standard tire size is 275/35 ZR19 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear, providing ample grip for both road and track use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The M3 Touring CS has been met with widespread acclaim from automotive journalists and enthusiasts. Critics praise its exceptional performance, refined handling, and the unique combination of practicality and excitement. Compared to other M3 Touring variants, the CS offers a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price point. While fuel economy is not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, the M3 Touring CS achieves a combined fuel consumption of 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg), which is respectable considering its power output. Reliability is expected to be on par with other BMW M models, although long-term data is still emerging.
Legacy
The M3 Touring CS is poised to become a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market. Its limited production run and unique status as the first official M3 Touring model will likely drive up its value over time. The S58 engine is known for its durability and tunability, suggesting that the M3 Touring CS will provide years of reliable performance. This vehicle represents a significant milestone in BMW’s history, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to delivering high-performance vehicles that cater to a wide range of driving needs and preferences.
