BMW’s M3 Touring 24H rolled into Spa’s gates featuring a brand‑new rooftop box that fanned half the Belgian Ardennes.
Unexpected debut on the driver parade
The saloon, a 24‑hour contender after claiming fourth overall at Nürburgring, caught the eye of racing fans by navigating the city streets with its first production roof box. Street‑style burnouts and cheers from the crowd underlined a playful, yet intentional, showcase.
Engineering focus behind the trial
BMW’s marketing team explained the stop as a dual‑purpose exercise: verifying a bespoke roof box designed for racing use and highlighting aerodynamic efficiency. The collaborators sourced parts from the brand’s racing series, resulting in a box that sits visibly high on the Touring’s roof and matches the car’s rear wing profile.
Practical benefits for the event
Beyond the spectacle, the box added capacity for giveaways, elevating engagement levels for spectators around Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. A secret passenger seat, announced in pre‑run talks, was also fitted to the touring format, answering collector demands for added utility.
Short‑lived appearance
BMW confirmed that the roof box would not feature again during the remainder of the weekend. The component was removed once the car returned to its racing configuration.
Onward to Goodwood
Future plans have BMW’s touring unit heading straight to the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it will compete for lap‑record times without the roof box. The car’s journey reflects a blend of cutting‑edge testing and high‑performance showcase.
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