The BMW M3 CS represents a new level of intensity within the company’s high-performance models for the premium midsize segment. This vehicle boasts a unique character profile and the ability to offer an unadulterated M experience that captivates drivers both on the road and on the track.
The powertrain of the BMW M3 CS is a 550 horsepower six-cylinder inline engine, paired with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. This configuration results in a 0-100 kmph acceleration time of 3.4 seconds and the vehicle comes equipped with the M Driver’s Package as standard, with an electronically limited top speed of 302 kmph.
The engine is a specially upgraded version of the high-revving six-cylinder inline engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, which was developed for the BMW M3 and BMW M4 models. The engine boasts a wealth of technological advancements derived directly from the race-car unit, including a sleeve-free closed-deck construction that is extremely rigid, making it suitable for high combustion pressures.
Additionally, the cylinder head features a 3D-printed core, which allows for optimal temperature management through the arrangement of coolant ducts, something that would not be possible with conventional metal casting methods. The oil supply and cooling systems are also specifically designed to handle the challenges of track use.
These advancements resulted in a 40 horsepower increase in peak output compared to the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive, resulting in a total of 550 horsepower. A specially designed engine mounting with increased spring rates creates a rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure, resulting in sharper engine response and direct transmission of power to the drivetrain.
The engine also puts out peak torque of 650 Nm at just 2,750 rpm and sustains it until 5,950 rpm. Additionally, the dual-branch exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimizing design and two pairs of tailpipes painted in matt black produces an emotive soundtrack.
The BMW M3 CS also features extensive model-specific lightweight design measures which significantly contribute to the vehicle’s performance and exclusivity. The use of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is used in the construction of the roof, bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser and rear spoiler. The centre console, shift paddles on the steering wheel, and interior trim strips are also manufactured from CFRP.
The standard M Carbon bucket seats also help to keep weight down in the cabin, while the titanium rear silencer shaves more than 4 kilograms off the weight of the exhaust system. These various lightweight design measures result in a total weight savings of approximately 20 kilograms compared to the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive.
The BMW M3 CS has certain design features to distinguish it from its peers. The exterior is available in a exclusive Frozen Solid White metallic paint finish, with exposed carbon-fiber surfaces for the roof, two indents chiseled into the bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear apron, which are contrasted by Black side skirts and M gills. The exterior colour options include Signal Green solid, Brooklyn Grey metallic, and Sapphire Black metallic.
The BMW M3 CS will be produced in a limited run at the BMW Group Plant Munich, with production commencing in March 2023, and the phased launch will also begin later in the same month.
