There has never been an M3 as a station wagon from the tuning company AC Schnitzer. That's changing now: Schnitzer squeezes up to 610 hp out of the M3 Touring.
Few people still associate sporty cars with high performance with the vehicle type station wagon. And even less so when you hear the term BMW M3. But the Bavarians decided to launch a real M station wagon for the G81 model series for the first time. The BMW M3 Touring celebrated its premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in June 2022.
A great template for AC Schnitzer: the Aachen-based company is pumping up the M3 even more. The tuned station wagon delivers up to 610 hp. The biturbo in-line six-cylinder comes as standard with 510 hp. Schnitzer increases the maximum torque from 650 Nm to 750 Nm compared to the series. That's what the customer gets when they opt for the "Performance Enhancement Step II" package.
Carbon tailpipes for the M3 Touring
AC Schnitzer also supplies the sports rear silencer with carbon tailpipes. Two thick tailpipes then protrude left and right from the rear of the station wagon. The exhaust system is designed to give the M3 a more powerful and sporty sound. In addition, the noble tuner promises a better exhaust gas throughput. AC Schnitzer is charging 9,882 euros for the upgrade.
The alternative package of the tuner is a bit cheaper, it only costs 5,892 euros. The silencer is not included in the "Step I" package either. If the buyer decides to do so, there is 590 hp and also 750 Nm of maximum torque. Lowering the car is important for a sportier look. However, this is only available on the front axle of the M3 Touring.
With the new suspension springs, Schnitzer brings the BMW body 20 to 25 millimeters closer to the road. The standard springs remain installed at the rear. The buyer can also opt for the RS coilover suspension from the tuning company. With stepless lowering and an adjustable rebound and compression stage, the Touring can be configured more individually.
M3 rolls on 20-inch wheels
The dark green suits the M3 Touring. There are different rim colors for the wheels, which harmonize in combination with the exterior color. The 20-inchers are available in either silver anthracite or anthracite silver. The tires are 285 millimeters wide at the front and 295 millimeters at the rear. The lightweight forged wheels promise less weight and contribute to improved performance.
Keyword performance: AC Schnitzer increases it thanks to various aerodynamic adjustments. On the one hand, the front splitter should generate 40 kilograms more downforce. The spoiler remains unpainted and also sets a visual accent on the power combination. The two design elements on the bonnet, further decorations on the fender and on the side skirts set the Schnitzer M3 apart from the standard BMW. The rear roof spoiler provides 20 kilograms more contact pressure.
AC Schnitzer spices up the driver's footwell with aluminum pedals and an aluminum footrest. The iDrive controller can also be provided with an aluminum cover. The sports steering wheel is covered with perforated nappa leather and black Alcantara. The aluminum shift paddles with the AC Schnitzer logo catch the eye and also round off the sporty power combination on the inside.
Conclusion
AC Schnitzer shows its interpretation of the M3 Touring. For the first time there is the M3 as a station wagon from BMW. The noble tuner from Aachen also wanted to lend a hand. The result is particularly convincing visually. This M3 should definitely be the right power station wagon for families if the holiday trip should offer a lot of driving fun.