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Headed down under in Q1 of next year, the first ever BMW M3 Touring will deliver the one thing missing from the German marque’s stable – an angry mid-sized performance car with motor sport pedigree, that’s also a practical family wagon.
Since the release of the first M3 back in 1986, BMW has only offered two variants; a two-door coupe (which essentially became the M4), or a sedan. The only time the idea of developing an estate came up was 21 years ago, when the E46 prototype broke cover.
Now, after many years, BMW M will deliver what has to be one of the most asked for M3 model variants, with the Touring set to change the definition of what a performance wagon can be. Wide bulging rear wheel arches and all.
The new BMW M3 Touring has had extensive work done to reinforce the rear end to make sure that car is every bit as rigid as its counterparts. This has been achieved with slightly stiffer springs and dampers, and yet it only weighs 25kg heavier than the sedan.
From the B pillar to the front, the BMW M3 Touring is identical to its sedan sibling. That means the same glorious 3.0-litre straight six, twin turbo that makes a healthy 375kW and 650Nm, combined with the BMW M xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The combination means you have a wagon that’s good for a 0-100km/h in 3.7 seconds. To be offered only in Competition spec, the powerplant will be paired with an 8-speed automatic (there’s no manual option).
Inside, the same racing inspired bucket seats from the M3 sedan will catch the eye at first glance, but it’s the new technology it scores from the flagship iX xDrive50 SUV that will set a new standard for the iconic M car.
That means a 12.3-inch display for the driver and 14.9-inch display for the infotainment system. It’s all positioned behind one single piece of glass and angled towards the driver, for a more focused experience too.
Pricing and final specifications will be announced later this year.
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