BMW M3 CS Touring Sets New Record for Production Wagons at Nürburgring

The BMW M3 CS Touring has achieved a remarkable feat, completing a lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife in just 7:29.490. This time marks the fastest ever recorded for a production wagon, setting a new benchmark for performance in its category. The lap was driven by Jörg Weidinger, a BMW M development engineer and former hillclimb champion, and the record was confirmed in early April 2025.

This performance surpasses the previous record held by the standard M3 Touring, which completed the track in 7:35.060 in 2022. The M3 CS Touring’s time places it just behind the sedan version, which recorded a lap time of 7:28.760. However, it outpaces many other production models, showcasing BMW’s engineering prowess in the high-performance wagon segment.

Under the hood, the M3 CS Touring boasts a powerful 543-hp inline-six engine, paired with BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination allows the vehicle to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in a mere 3.5 seconds, with a top speed reaching up to 300 km/h. The enhancements over the standard Touring model include upgraded suspension, revised chassis geometry, and optional carbon-ceramic brakes, all contributing to its impressive track capabilities.

Performance Meets Practicality

Despite its performance-oriented design, the M3 CS Touring does not compromise on practicality. It offers up to 1,510 litres of cargo space, allowing it to serve as a versatile daily driver while still delivering race-grade performance. Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M, stated, “From the very beginning, it was clear that the BMW M3 CS Touring would set new standards in dynamics. With a time under 7:30 minutes, this model impressively demonstrates that this vehicle concept perfectly combines racing DNA with everyday usability.”

BMW has also released onboard footage of the record-setting lap, providing enthusiasts with a thrilling view of the vehicle in action. The video lasts 7:47 minutes, capturing the raw performance and engineering excellence that defines the M3 CS Touring.

As the automotive community celebrates this achievement, speculation begins regarding whether BMW will pursue further records with an M5 Touring in the future. The potential for another high-performance wagon to take on the Nürburgring adds to the excitement surrounding BMW’s M lineup and its commitment to pushing performance boundaries.

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