2026 BMW M3 CS Touring First Look: Performance Meets Practicality

BMW is in the midst of a wagon renaissance. First came the M5 Touring—finally headed to America—followed by the M3 Competition Touring, a long-roof version of the iconic sports sedan and the first M3 wagon with a real shot at reaching U.S. shores. Now comes the next evolution: the 2026 BMW M3 CS Touring. Like other CS-badged M models, it promises an “unadulterated racing-car feeling”—only this time with enough cargo space for a weekend away or a full track-day toolkit. There’s just one catch.

But first…

The front end remains a “love it or hate it” statement, thanks to the extended kidney grilles, but beyond that, the 2026 BMW M3 CS Touring looks sharp and purposeful. This isn’t your average station wagon — it features carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components and an extended roof that enhances both style and performance. Just from its aggressive stance alone, the CS Touring feels like a serious contender. But let’s dive into what’s really under the hood of this high-performance hauler.

Beneath the lightweight, aero-optimized hood lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six. What sets it apart from the standard M3 engine is the increased boost pressure—just over 30 psi—which pushes output up by 20 horsepower, delivering a robust 550 horsepower at 6,250 rpm. Peak torque hits 479 lb-ft, available across a broad band from 2,750 to 5,950 rpm, while the redline stretches to 7,200 rpm. The exhaust note is finely tuned through a titanium muffler, with electronically controlled flaps that let the driver shape the sound profile. In Sport and Sport Plus modes, these flaps adjust both the soundtrack and the overall driving dynamics for a fully immersive experience.

The 2026 BMW M3 CS Touring engine is mated to an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, delivering power to all four wheels through BMW’s M-tuned xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Like the standard M3, this model can also operate in rear-wheel-drive mode in select driving settings. With all-wheel drive engaged, the car rockets from 0 to 62 mph in a brisk 3.5 seconds, while the electronically limited top speed reaches 186 mph when equipped with the M Driver’s Package, according to BMW.

The drivetrain’s behavior is further refined by the Drivelogic button, offering three selectable shift profiles to tailor the transmission’s responsiveness. Drivers can also take control with carbon fiber paddle shifters for quick, precise manual gear changes. Enhancing handling precision, the Active M Differential on the rear axle comes alive—especially in 4WD Sport and rear-wheel-drive modes when Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is turned off—delivering sharp, exhilarating driving dynamics.

Keeping the 2026 BMW M3 CS Touring firmly in control is an upgraded chassis and finely tuned driving dynamics. The DSC and M Dynamic Mode are specifically calibrated to deliver precision on the track, tailored to this wagon-bodied powerhouse. Complementing this are specially tuned dampers, M Servotronic steering, and a high-performance braking system. The car rolls on a staggered setup of forged aluminum M wheels wrapped in 275/35ZR19 tires up front and 285/30ZR20 at the rear. While standard track tires come equipped, there’s also an option for even higher-performance sport tires. Peeking through the distinctive two-spoke wheels are massive brakes with M Compound calipers available in red or black, with an upgrade to M Carbon calipers offered in striking red or matte gold finishes.

The 2026 BMW M3 CS Touring body is crafted with lightweight yet exceptionally rigid components, starting with the hood. Alongside the front splitter, air intakes, mirror caps, and rear diffuser, these parts are all forged from carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Inside, the carbon-fiber theme continues—not only with the shift paddles but also across the interior trim strips and center console. Despite the added structural reinforcements, including the optional M front strut brace, the M3 CS Touring manages to shed about 33 pounds compared to the M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive.

The extended body is available in a range of striking standard colors, including British Racing Green, Laguna Seca Blue, Frozen Solid White, and Sapphire Black Metallic. The roof and integrated rear spoiler are finished in high-gloss black, enhancing the signature high-performance look BMW M cars are renowned for. On the special-edition M3 CS Touring, the roof spoiler receives an eye-catching red surround treatment, adding an extra touch of exclusivity.

Sporty Innards

Inside the 2026 BMW M3 CS Touring, motorsports DNA is unmistakable. The cabin is sharply driver-focused, with both driver and passenger embraced by a pair of heated, electronically adjustable M Carbon seats. These seats proudly display illuminated “CS” badging and are upholstered in premium Merino leather. The steering wheel sports a flat-bottom design wrapped in M Alcantara, complete with a red center marker at the 12 o’clock position for quick visual reference. Red accents abound throughout the interior—from the “CS” badge on the center console to the M seat belts and door sill plates featuring model lettering. The door panels are trimmed in sleek black leather, while the rear seats contrast strikingly with a black and red finish.

Of course, the real appeal of a wagon is the extra cargo space the extended roof provides, and the M3 CS Touring doesn’t disappoint. It offers just over 17.5 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats, expanding to more than 53 cubic feet when those seats are folded down.

We reached out for pricing and availability on the 2026 BMW M3 CS Touring, and unfortunately, the news isn’t great. Since the M3 Touring—and even the M3 Competition Touring—haven’t officially made it to the U.S. yet, it seems unlikely the CS Touring will either. That said, we were also told the M5 Touring wouldn’t come here, and now it’s on its way. So, while we’re not encouraging anyone to hold their breath, don’t count out the possibility of this high-performance wagon hitting American roads just yet.