BMW M3 Touring in the Test: 510 hp, all-season and family-friendly

The new all-wheel drive station wagon from M GmbH, the BMW M3 Touring, is missing the terms “Competition” and “xDrive” from its full name. In terms of performance and handling, the M3 Touring Competition xDrive is designed to provide a seamless driving experience.

The steering feels in the M3/M4 derivatives has varied in quality in the past. However, in the M3 Touring, the steering accurately communicates the texture of the road surface to the driver’s hands. The steering force and steering angle build-up feel natural, although there might be a lack of restoring torque in certain driving situations.

The Touring model is well-suited for demanding driving conditions, even in Sport mode where the holding forces are not excessively high, even at high speeds on country roads. BMW highlights that the Touring model incorporates all the previous knowledge and experience gained from previous derivatives, resulting in an overall positive effect on the driving experience.

The driving performance of the BMW M3 Touring Competition xDrive is noteworthy. It boasts a top speed of 250 km/h (optional 280 km/h with M Driver’s Package) and impressive acceleration figures, including 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, 0-130 km/h in 5.3 seconds, 0-160 km/h in 7.8 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 12.5 seconds, and 0-260 km/h in 27.0 seconds. The base price for the M3 Touring Competition xDrive is 101,300 euros.

The importance of the all-wheel drive system, particularly in the context of the M3 Touring, lies in its ability to effectively manage the powerful front axle. The throttle input, control electronics of the all-wheel drive system, and the limited-slip differential work together to maintain control and stability. Even in standard mode, the Touring model is designed to gently induce oversteer with aggressive use of power, allowing it to regain traction on the front axle.

The 4WD Sport mode, coupled with the slacker MDM (M Dynamic Mode) level of the stabilization system, enables the driver to achieve desired, albeit relatively lazy, sideslip angles. For the most extreme driving experience, the 2WD mode allows for the complete disengagement of all electronic aids, including the ten levels of traction control.

BMW M3 Touring

Hans Dieter Seufert

The engine in question is a six-cylinder in-line engine with an exhaust gas turbocharger, featuring a displacement of 2,993 cc. It delivers an impressive output of 375 kW (510 hp) at 6,250 rpm, with a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 2,750 rpm.

However, shifting our focus to everyday driving experiences, the seating position alone gives you the sensation of being in the front row of the 1991 DTM race at Zolder, sitting right alongside Johnny Cecotto in the M3 Group A. But there’s a notable distinction: the immense power generated by the turbo engine would cause the old racing car to disintegrate into dust even before reaching the first corner. Thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and eight-speed automatic transmission, this vehicle effortlessly achieves exceptional acceleration values.

It can go from zero to one hundred kilometers per hour in just 3.4 seconds, and from zero to two hundred kilometers per hour in a mere 12.5 seconds. On the other hand, it also boasts an impressive deceleration capability of nearly 12 meters per second squared.

Moreover, when accelerating out of a braking maneuver, the car maintains a balanced and stable performance. It exhibits robust handling, precise control over body movements, and remarkable stability on level surfaces, particularly when the Sport Plus mode of the dampers is engaged. Even when driving on regular country roads in the softest suspension setting, the Touring model remains firmly planted, ensuring reliable traction and encouraging an engaging driving experience.

BMW M3 Touring

Hans Dieter Seufert

The Transmission/Chassis of the BMW M3 Touring features all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The front suspension consists of wishbones/MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension is a multi-link setup with coil springs. The vehicle is equipped with disc brakes both at the front and rear. The front tires are sized 275/35 R 19, while the rear tires are 285/30 R 20.

A prominent feature of the BMW M3 Touring is its inline six-cylinder engine, which exhibits responsive performance, powerful acceleration, agile cornering, and produces a robust exhaust note. When driven conservatively, the vehicle can achieve a fuel consumption rate of 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers.

However, under more spirited driving conditions, the fuel consumption increases to around 11.0 liters per 100 kilometers. Considering the M3 Touring’s weight of 1,844 kilograms, which provides a stable and versatile driving experience, this fuel efficiency is reasonable. With its impressive capabilities, the M3 Touring quickly disappears from sight, leaving an exhilarating impression.

While it is true that the BMW M3 Touring may be criticized for its relatively high curb weight, this characteristic does not hinder its exceptional handling capabilities and powerful acceleration. Furthermore, the M3 Touring is designed to accommodate families throughout the year, making it a practical choice for daily use in various weather conditions.

Technical specifications

	BMW M3 M3 Competition
Basic price	€96,300
External dimensions	4794x1903x1437mm
trunk volume	480L
Displacement / engine	2993 cc / 6 cylinder
Performance	375 kW / 510 hp at 6250 rpm
Top speed	250km/h
Consumption	10.2L/100km

Technical specifications

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