Exploring Tokyo’s Forbidden Streets: A Wagon Adventure

Exploring Tokyo in a BMW M3 Touring

Tokyo, with its bustling streets and orderly chaos, has a unique way of making visitors feel small yet intrigued. The city’s fast-paced environment is met with a sense of grace that is truly remarkable. From motorbikes maneuvering through traffic with precision to delivery vans navigating narrow alleys effortlessly, Tokyo operates on an unspoken rulebook of patience. Driving through the city in a 530-horsepower BMW M3 Touring, with the steering wheel on the “wrong” side, feels like an exciting experiment in adaptability.

Initially, everything may seem backward when behind the wheel of the M3 Touring. The indicator stalk is on the opposite side, the mirrors feel distant, and the constant reminder to “stay left” echoes in your mind. However, Tokyo’s serene atmosphere eases the learning curve. Drivers give space, honking is rare, and everyone seems to have a precise understanding of their vehicle’s dimensions. Within a short time, the compact M3 Touring starts to feel like a natural fit for the city.

The M3 Touring seamlessly blends into Tokyo’s urban landscape, effortlessly navigating the neon chaos of the city streets and the bustling avenues of Ginza. With excellent visibility, a firm yet comfortable ride, and a responsive twin-turbo engine, the M3 Touring excels in different driving conditions. In Comfort mode, the car is composed and relaxed, with a softer steering feel suitable for daily commutes. Switching to Sport mode unleashes the car’s full potential, sharpening its performance and reminding drivers of its true capabilities.

Transitioning from the city to the countryside, the M3 Touring undergoes a transformation. Despite being slightly heavier than its sedan counterpart, the Touring maintains a balanced chassis, allowing drivers to pivot through corners effortlessly. The all-wheel-drive system, with a rear bias, enhances the car’s agility, while the smooth eight-speed automatic transmission complements the powerful S58 engine. On narrow country roads, the M3 Touring feels nimble and responsive, providing precise steering feedback and composed handling.

The versatility of the M3 Touring shines through as it seamlessly transitions from practical daily driving to spirited backroad adventures. With over 500 liters of cargo space with the seats up and more than 1,500 liters with the seats folded, the M3 Touring offers a blend of performance and utility unmatched by SUVs. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds, the M3 Touring delivers supercar-like performance without compromising on practicality.

Many reviewers in Europe and the UK have hailed the M3 Touring as the most complete M car ever produced by BMW. Its combination of speed, balance, communication, and livability sets it apart from its counterparts. While the M4 may prioritize showmanship and the M5 leans towards hybrid technology, the Touring strikes a perfect balance between performance and everyday usability. The interior features the latest iDrive 8.5 interface, carbon trim, and M sports seats, emphasizing the car’s sporty yet functional design.

Despite its accolades, the painful truth remains that Americans are unable to purchase the M3 Touring. BMW’s decision not to federalize the 3 Series Touring in the U.S. has left enthusiasts longing for the versatile M car. While the business rationale behind this decision is understood, it remains a disappointment for those who recognize the M3 Touring as the epitome of an M car. The car’s blend of performance, practicality, and passion showcases a new standard for all-round excellence.

In conclusion, the BMW M3 Touring represents a harmonious blend of performance and practicality, setting a new benchmark for M cars. Its speed, comfort, and visual appeal make it a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a versatile driving experience. While Americans may admire the M3 Touring from a distance, its allure and capabilities are undeniable. If the opportunity arises for the M3 Touring to be available in the U.S., it would undoubtedly be a sought-after choice for those seeking a perfect balance of performance and everyday usability.