SPARTANBURG/MUNICH (February 17, 2025) – Showcasing driving pleasure up to the physical limits is the BMW Group’s mission with its new high-performance test vehicle – the BMW Vision Driving Experience. This Vision Vehicle is not destined for series production, but is instead serving as a rolling test rig for drivetrain and driving dynamics management technology developed specially for the Neue Klasse – the next generation of BMW vehicles – and referred to by BMW as the “Heart of Joy”. The prototype car put the capabilities of the Heart of Joy to the ultimate test of endurance at the BMW Performance Driving Center in Spartanburg, USA. And the company provided exclusive insights into its development program for the electric driving experience on board the Neue Klasse as part of a preview presentation. Every fully electric Neue Klasse model will benefit from the Heart of Joy. The first taller Neue Klasse electric model will go into series production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary. The new Heart of Joy adds a fourth dimension – BMW’s hallmark Sheer Driving Pleasure – to the existing trio of Neue Klasse characteristics (electrical, digital, circular). Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, took to the stage at the IAA 2023 show holding the small black box. It is important to note that the control unit will go into series production, but the Vision Vehicle will not. Continue reading
MUNICH (January 30, 2025) – The world premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 CS Touring will be hosted by the Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, in the Australian state of New South Wales. The BMW M3 CS Touring will be revealed to the public for the first time on 30 January 2025 as part of the Bathurst 12 Hour race program. Deliveries of the limited-run model to customers in Europe, Australia, Japan and South Korea, among others, will begin in March 2025. The car’s home market of Germany is by a distance its most important sales region. The special edition will be produced alongside all other variants of the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M3 Touring at BMW Group Plant Munich.
Six-cylinder in-line engine adapts racing-car technology The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW M3 CS Touring was designed from the outset to deliver high performance on the race track – and it features a multitude of technological details from racing-car design. These include an extremely rigid crankcase with a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction, a forged lightweight crankshaft and a cylinder head with a 3D-printed core. The likewise weight-saving cylinder bores have a wire-arc sprayed iron coating to reduce frictional losses. The cooling system and oil supply are also designed to handle the sustained heavy loads generated during hard driving on a track.
The drive unit combines the high-revving characteristics for which M is renowned and linear power delivery into the upper reaches of the engine’s range with upgraded M TwinTurbo technology. Raising the maximum charge pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers to 2.1 bar and making model-specific tweaks to the engine management enable the maximum output of the BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive to be increased by another 15 kW/20 hp to 405 kW/550 hp. The engine develops its peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) between just 2,750 and 5,950 rpm, produces its maximum output at 6,250 rpm and tops out at 7,200 rpm.
In addition, a specially designed engine mounting with increased spring rates creates an extremely rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure. This leads to even sharper engine response and extremely direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain. Its instantaneous power delivery means the BMW M3 CS Touring can power from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 seconds, and 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) is over in 11.7 seconds. The figures recorded using the “one-foot rollout” method* are 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds and 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 11.4 seconds. The mid-range sprint from 80 to 120 km/h (50 – 75 mph) takes 2.7 seconds in 4th gear and 3.5 seconds in 5th gear. The top speed of the special-edition model – which comes as standard with the M Driver’s Package – is electronically limited to 300 km/h (186 mph).
The car’s emotionally stirring engine note is the work of the M-specific exhaust system featuring electrically controlled flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design and – in customary M fashion – two pairs of tailpipes painted in matt Black. The engine’s acoustic presence varies according to the engine profile the driver selects from the M Setup menu. SPORT or SPORT+ mode produces a drive sound that injects real aural drama into proceedings, particularly through gear changes and the accompanying adjustments in rev speed.
Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive and Active M Differential enable irresistibly dynamic power transfer The engine under the bonnet of the BMW M3 CS Touring teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission including Drivelogic. The Drivelogic button integrated into the gear selector lever makes it possible to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics, with a choice of three clearly distinguishable settings available. As well as comfort-focused and sporty options, drivers can also engage a setting optimised specially for track driving. Both the selector lever and the carbon-fiber shift paddles on the steering wheel enable sequential interventions in the gear selection process.
The BMW M3 CS Touring channels its power to the road through the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This employs an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case to ensure fully variable and super-smooth distribution of the engine’s power between the front and rear wheels, and serves up tireless all-wheel-drive performance, even during hard track sessions. In tandem with the Active M Differential at the rear axle – whose operation is also fully variable – the intelligent all-wheel-drive system’s rear-wheel bias enhances the M-typical handling dynamics. Added to which, 4WD Sport mode can be selected via the M Setup menu. This sends an even greater proportion of the engine’s power to the rear wheels. 2WD mode, meanwhile, delivers a driving experience for the ultimate purist, laying on classical rear-wheel drive with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system deactivated.
Model-specific tuning for the chassis technology and performance-focused stopping power The chassis technology in the BMW M3 CS Touring has been tuned precisely to the engine’s performance characteristics, the overall vehicle concept and the specific weight distribution of this latest special-edition model. The settings for the DSC system and M Dynamic Mode have also been purposefully optimized for the specific demands of dynamically committed circuit driving. The electronically controlled dampers of the adaptive M suspension on the BMW M3 CS Touring likewise come in a model-specific setup, as do its M Servotronic steering and integrated braking system.
Providing outstanding stopping power are M Compound brakes with calipers painted in a choice of Red or Black. There is also the option of M Carbon ceramic brakes whose brake calipers are available in Red or matt Gold. Also on the standard equipment list are forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive double-spoke design with a matt Gold Bronze or matt Black finish. Measuring 19 inches in diameter at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear, the wheels are fitted as standard with track tires (275/35 ZR19 at the front, 285/30 ZR20 at the rear). As an alternative to these tires, customers also have the no-cost option of sport tires with the same dimensions. And ultra-track tires are also included on the options list.
Exclusive carbon-fiber components and optimized body rigidity help to produce outstanding performance attributes Together with the extremely powerful engine and model-specific chassis technology, intelligent lightweight design measures also play a major part in molding the exclusive performance attributes of the BMW M3 CS Touring. Extensive use of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is particularly important when it comes to weight minimization. The car’s bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps and rear diffuser are all made from CFRP.
Inside the cabin, the M Carbon bucket seats and likewise CFRP steering wheel shift paddles, interior trim strips and center console also do their bit to keep weight down. The various lightweight design measures bring about a total weight saving of some 15 kilograms over the BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive. Body rigidity is further increased by specifying the optional M front end strut brace for the engine compartment that has also been engineered for lightness.
Exquisite balance of performance and everyday usability; exclusive design features Hallmark M performance and the versatility-focused body concept of a Touring model certainly make an unusual combination, and the latest special edition adds a special allure to the mix. In the BMW M3 CS Touring, a concentrated dose of M feeling meets a variable-usage interior whose storage capacity below the high-opening tailgate can be expanded from 500 liters to a maximum 1,510 liters. In addition, the dynamically stretched lines of the Touring model and the M-specific exterior details – crafted precisely to meet the technical demands of cooling air supply and aerodynamic balance – are complemented by exclusive design features whose striking appearance reflects the track-leaning instincts of the BMW M3 CS Touring.
For example, the standard-specification exposed carbon fiber of the special-edition’s bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes and M exterior mirror caps creates an eye-catching contrast against the visually striking exterior colors available for the rest of the car. The BMW M3 CS Touring can be ordered with a paint finish in British Racing Green, Laguna Seca Blue, Frozen Solid White or Sapphire Black metallic. The roof and model-specific roof spoiler are in Black high-gloss and bring an impression of elegance to the bold exterior. Another exclusive design feature of the special-edition model is the red surround for the roof spoiler.
The front end of the car is defined by the weight-minimized, ultra-stripped-back and frameless BMW M kidney grille. The black model lettering on the upper of the two horizontal grille slats is bordered by a red contour line, likewise the model badging at the front and rear. In a clear reference to motor sport, the LED headlights of the BMW M3 CS Touring glow with the same distinctive yellow light as GT racing cars.
Driver-focused cockpit with exclusive racing-car aura The interior of the BMW M3 CS Touring blends a sports-car cockpit designed to exude maximum performance with digital technology and exclusive design features. Electrically adjustable and heated M Carbon bucket seats are fitted as standard for the driver and front passenger. They have integral head restraints, an illuminated “CS” model badge and surfaces in Merino leather. Their exclusive Black/Red design is also adopted by the rear seats, while all the door panel trim is covered with black leather.
The standard M Alcantara steering wheel in three-spoke design – with its flat-bottomed rim and red center marker in the 12-o’clock position – brings authentic racing car flair into the cockpit,. Further M-specific details are the red “CS” badge on the center console, M seat belts and door sill plates with model lettering.
The M-specific Setup button on the center console enables direct access to the settings for the engine, chassis, steering, brakes and M xDrive. Two individually configurable setup variants can be stored together with personal settings for the engine sound, DSC, Automatic Start/Stop function and the shift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission – and these setups are then selected using the M buttons on the steering wheel. The BMW M3 CS Touring also comes as standard with the M Drive Professional system with track-optimized functions such as the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer. Added to which, the 10-stage M Traction Control delivers personalized driving fun on the track. Another feature of M Drive Professional is the M Mode button on the center console, which can be used to configure the driver assistance systems and the content shown on the information display and Head-Up Display. Drivers can choose between ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings here.
In the new BMW M3 CS Touring, the latest version of the display and control/operation system BMW iDrive based on BMW Operating System 8.5 provides intuitive control of numerous vehicle functions and digital services. With the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and BMW Curved Display both on board, the car is based squarely on operation using touch control and natural language. The M-specific view on the 12.3-inch information display shows the familiar M Shift Lights at its upper edge, while the status of the driving stability systems, M xDrive and traction control can be found at the lower edge of the screen. The home screen of the 14.9-inch control display includes widgets for the vehicle setup, tire pressure and temperature.
Sophisticated options for enhancing driving pleasure and comfort in everyday use Standard specification for the BMW M3 CS Touring also includes BMW Live Cockpit Professional which, alongside the BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific content, brings the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps, smartphone integration, telephony with wireless charging and a WiFi interface. The BMW Drive Recorder can be added as an option.
The BMW M3 CS Touring additionally offers customers a selection of comfort-enhancing features and driver assistance systems composed with the focus firmly on the enjoyment of unadulterated driving pleasure. Comfort Access, the alarm system, two-zone automatic climate control and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System are all fitted as standard. Park Distance Control and the Parking Assistant, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system are likewise standard, while the Driving Assistant system can be specified as an option.
* Value with “rollout” subtracted. With this alternative measuring method, time measurement only begins after leaving a light barrier. The distance not taken into account in the measurement (the “rollout”) is 1 foot = 30.48 cm.
All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption, emissions and range are provisional.
All of the stated equipment features, technical data and fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.
Official figures on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions were determined based on the prescribed WLTP measurement procedure and are in accordance with Pkw-EnVKV. For more information, go to www.bmw.de
WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. (January 28, 2025) – More power, more dynamic performance, more efficiency: The new BMW iX takes the driving experience of the all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle to a new level. Consistent progress in the field of drive and high-voltage battery technology as well as further development of BMW EfficientDynamics measures not only increase the power output and sporty driving characteristics, but also the efficiency and thus the range of BMW’s first-ever SAV designed from the beginning to be fully electric. Continue reading
Within the automotive industry, Bob Lutz is legendary as a Car Guy, an executive who prioritized exciting, fun-to-drive cars over those with mass-market appeal. During his brief tenure as BMW’s board member for sales, Lutz fulfilled those expectations handily, fostering the creation of enthusiast-oriented cars like the 2002 turbo and 3.0 CSL, and by founding BMW Motorsport to put BMW back on the racetrack with a full-factory team. Continue reading
DAYTONA, Fla. (January 20, 2025) – During the Roar before the 24 last weekend, BMW M Motorsport drivers and teams intensely prepared for the first season highlight of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (IWSC), the 24 Hours of Daytona (USA). One week before the race, three test days featuring seven sessions were held, during which BMW M Team RLL with its two BMW M Hybrid V8s gave strong performances. Dries Vanthoor (BEL) set the overall fastest time with 1:35.424 minutes. Kevin Magnussen (DEN) and Kelvin van der Linde (RSA) used the tests to complete their first laps as BMW M works drivers. Continue reading
WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. (January 15, 2025) – If one character could be said to dominate BMW’s early years in the US, it’s Max Hoffman. As BMW’s sole distributor in this country from 1962 to 1975, Hoffman was a champion of the marque, one whose belief in BMW allowed cars like the 2002 to reach a broad audience of dedicated enthusiasts. Alas, Hoffman’s true role within BMW history is as much villain as hero, however, as it was with respect to nearly all of the marques represented at one time or another by the Hoffman Motors Corporation. Continue reading
MUNICH/LAS VEGAS, Nev. (January 7, 2025) – The BMW Group presents the driving and user experience of the future at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas. BMW is providing the first opportunity to experience the close-to-production version of the new BMW iDrive – complete with its centerpiece, BMW Panoramic Vision – at the event. The software underpinning it all is the new BMW Operating System X, which acts as the intelligence hub behind the new display and operating concept. The holistic system, with its modern, style-shaping design, will be introduced in all new BMW models from the end of 2025. Continue reading
MUNICH (December 17, 2024) – Visitors to the next Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas will be in for a “little” surprise when they visit the BMW Pavilion in the Silver Lot to experience the first-ever BMW Panoramic iDrive display- and operating-concept of the Neue Klasse in a “magical” way. With this presentation, BMW is not only showcasing technology that will be featured in the series production Neue Klasse vehicles for the first time, but also once again setting standards for in-vehicle experience with a clear focus on driver orientation, safety, and personalization. Continue reading
MUNICH (December 9, 2024) – This year’s festive campaign from BMW – titled “Das Geschenk” (The Gift) – tells the moving story of a young boy named Tim, who can think of nothing better than finding a very special treat for his beloved grandma. At the same time, the brand continues its journey to the introduction of the Neue Klasse by casting an eye back to an icon of automotive history that ushered in a new era for BMW (also under the Neue Klasse name) in the 1960s. The film at the heart of the campaign brims with feeling as it shows how Sheer Driving Pleasure brings generations together – in two different ways.
The film begins with a stroll through a festively decorated city center. Tim and his parents are looking for a Christmas gift for his grandmother. His parents come up with one suggestion after another, each as clichéd as the last and each promptly and confidently dismissed by their seven-year-old. Eventually, in a shop window he spots the thing that will give his gran – and himself – the greatest joy. Tim’s parents are initially unconvinced, but in the end decide to go along with their son’s wishes. Tim’s grandmother opens the enormous package with her family on Christmas Eve to reveal a BMW Junior Seat children’s car seat. Both grandmother and grandson know straightaway what this means: they can now enjoy trips together in her classic BMW 1500. Because joy is the most precious gift – and the joy of driving bridges young and old.
This entertaining festive film highlights the Sheer Driving Pleasure at the core of the brand and makes the BMW 1500 – launched under the Neue Klasse umbrella more than 60 years ago – the “sleeper star” of the campaign. The film was shot in Vienna, Austria, and soundtracked by 1980s Christmas classic “Christmas In Hollis” by US hip-hop legends Run-D.M.C.
Social media cues invite the community to get involved Jung von Matt came up with the idea and concept for the latest festive campaign. The Hamburg creative agency teamed up with BMW Marketing and Munich-based production company Hochkant to produce the 100-second film, which will be shown on BMW’s YouTube, LinkedIn and Instagram channels. In addition, the film will feature on Netflix in both Germany and Great Britain. And a 60-second version of “Das Geschenk” will also be aired on free TV in Germany over the festive period.
PIRO GmbH is responsible for rolling out the campaign across the brand’s social media platforms. The idea of Tim’s rather special and unconventional gift is also picked up on in a series of accompanying posts. For example, festive visuals depict car parts – wrapped up in Christmas paper – that present the community with a puzzle to solve.
When generations meet – looking at an iconic classic with modern eyes Both driving pleasure and the allure of the classic BMW 1500 are universal and timeless. And a separate social media series frames these generation-spanning vibes with particular charm. Tim tries to interact with the classic car as he’s used to doing with modern vehicles, but the Neue Klasse from the 1960s lacks power windows, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and other contemporary features. Not to worry, though, because Tim’s gran always has a trick or ruse up her sleeve to maintain the illusion, feed the young lad’s imagination and spread the feeling of pure joy.
MUNICH/MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (December 6, 2024) – BMW and Kith are launching a new edition of their successful collaboration. The BMW XM* and its links to the legendary BMW M1 are the focus of the third collaboration between the premium car manufacturer and Ronnie Fieg’s world-renowned lifestyle brand, Kith. The high-performance plug-in hybrid will be available next year as the 2025 BMW XM by Kith, with exclusive exterior and interior designs. Continue reading
