The M3 GTS (2010-2011) is a coupe-based, track-oriented special edition built by BMW M GmbH. Its S65 V8 is enlarged from 4.0 to 4.4 liters by lengthening the stroke to 82 mm, lifting output to 444 hp (450 PS) and 325 lb-ft, and it's paired exclusively with the 7-speed M DCT — no manual was offered. BMW's own figures show it about 154 lb (70 kg) lighter than a comparably equipped standard M3, via a carbon-fiber-reinforced-plastic roof, polycarbonate rear windows, lightweight door panels and center console, deleted rear seats and minimal sound deadening, despite carrying extra safety gear (a roll bar, six-point harnesses, a fire extinguisher) the standard car doesn't have.
It was never federalized for the United States: BMW cited the cost of meeting US airbag, seatbelt, bumper-height and emissions requirements for the enlarged engine against limited expected demand, and sold the GTS new only in Germany and a handful of other non-US markets. No GTS was ever a factory US-market car, though individually federalized examples have since appeared in the US under the Show or Display exemption, which caps on-road use at 2,500 miles a year.
Not as a normal titled car — none were ever sold here new. BMW never federalized the GTS for US roads, citing the cost of meeting US airbag, seatbelt and emissions requirements against limited demand. Individual examples have since been imported and federalized under the Show or Display exemption, but that comes with a 2,500-mile-per-year usage cap and real federalization cost, not a standard title-and-drive path.
BMW's own figures show about 154 lb (70 kg) less than a comparably equipped standard M3, achieved with a carbon roof, polycarbonate rear glass, lighter door panels and console, and deleted rear seats — notable given the GTS also carries extra safety equipment (roll bar, harnesses, fire extinguisher) that adds weight back in.
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