BMW M3 Touring by AC Schnitzer now available!

It took BMW more than 30 years to bring to market the touring version of the classic sports car for the first time, which is undeniably the M3.

While a station wagon is often more commonly classified as a family car, the AC Schnitzer design team saw this seeming contradiction as an ideal task to optimize the wagon. The task is to further optimize the BMW M3 Touring and increase its sportiness, despite the fact that the car is already very well prepared for series production.

BMW M3 Touring by AC Schnitzer

Station wagon or not, the 6 Series G80/G81 is the most powerful generation of M3 ever.

This also applies to the AC Schnitzer version. Never before has the BMW 3 Series been so powerful and dynamic, especially in the station wagon version. This extra power and sportiness can be felt in the presented M3 Touring in any situation: both on the race track and during everyday driving on public roads.

The modification offered by AC Schnitzer provides for an increase in engine power in two versions. In the first (Step I) power increased from 375 kW/510 hp and 650 Nm up to 434 kW/590 hp/750 Nm. For whom this is still not enough, AC Schnitzer also offers an upgrade to Step II, which increases the output of the BMW M3 Touring to 449 kW/610 hp/750 Nm..

The latest version is fitted with an AC Schnitzer dual sport muffler with dual carbon "Sport" tailpipe trims on each side. This exhaust system is also available as a Step I upgrade accessory and as a custom conversion. This exhaust delivers what makes any tuner's heart beat faster: the powerful sporty sound of an upgraded exhaust system and improved exhaust gas flow.

Modifications may also include suspension

We can get the M3 Touring with a set of AC Schnitzer springs lowering the car by 15 – 20mm on the front axle (remaining standard springs on the rear axle) or with AC Schnitzer RS ​​adjustable suspension (coilover) that will make every driver of a BMW modified in this way M3 to realize that the real feeling of driving dynamics comes only from Aachen.

“Better fast than hard” is the AC Schnitzer suspension tuning philosophy and you can feel it in every situation. The handling with the adjustable RS suspension is basically the same as the standard version: good load response and slight understeer at the limits are important, but thanks to the RS suspension much higher cornering speeds are possible, with absolutely comfortable daily handling of such a car.

The dynamic package is complemented by a matching wheel palette.

AC3 wheels in anthracite silver or anthracite silver are available for the BMW M3 as 10.0J x 20" lightweight forged wheels. These rims do what seems to be a contradiction in principle: they provide less weight for the same large wheel diameters. The advantages of forged technology also affect driving dynamics, and the grip of the M3 models is further improved by the use of mixed tires. The front axle is fitted with 285/30 R 20 tyres, while the rear rims are fitted with 295/30 R 20 tyres. In addition, AC1 wheels in the same dimensions are also available as 20" light alloy wheels.

Aerodynamic conversion of the AC Schnitzer version

Improving downforce is the goal of any aerodynamic modification. And since AC Schnitzer tuners put functionality first and looks second, the M3 Touring's aero upgrade is just as functional as its big brother.

The cornerstone of the aero package is the black splitter on the front axle, which can be installed without additional painting and increase the downforce of the M3 up to 40 kg*. This is complemented by the front side fenders, which were also developed specifically for the M3. The new styling package, consisting of a set of 4 front fender vents and 2 M3 hood styling pieces, gives the front of the car a finishing touch and a special look.

Also at the rear of the car, all signs point to improved downforce. With a rear roof spoiler providing 20 kg more downforce* and a carbon fiber rear diffuser, AC Schnitzer engineers have delved deep into the aero toolbox. Protective film for side and rear aprons with stickers completes the extensive offer.

The interior design is also stylish and functional.

The “MOST” control that keeps you safely in control of any driving situation is the AC Schnitzer sports steering wheel. The steering wheel rim is crafted from a beautiful combination of black perforated nappa leather and black alcantara. Both of these materials are interconnected with a light gray cross-stitch embroidery. Orientation in the current position of the steering wheel is provided by recesses for the driver's thumb and a light gray center mark indicator with the AC Schnitzer logo.

The combination with AC Schnitzer aluminum shift levers, which are noticeably larger than their standard counterparts, is another smart optimization. When it comes to tailoring the car's interior to its performance and sporty elegance, aluminum pedals and footrests, key holders and an aluminum cover for the iDrive controller are also available.

All parents who have traded in their sports car for a station wagon can now breathe a sigh of relief: the AC Schnitzer BMW M3 Touring version can be an everyday family car, but it can also be fun to drive on the race track – at least once in a while.

*all data measured at 200 km/h

Photos: AC Schnitzer