BMW’s M division has applied its latest performance-enhancing Club Sport treatment to the fifth-generation BMW M3 with the introduction of the limited-edition M3 CS.
The new performance saloon is powered by a 454bhp twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six and follows the M4 CS, with which it shares much of its mechanical package. The M3 CS will be available to order in the UK in January 2018; deliveries will be due after a planned start to production in March.
Read more: New BMW M3 CS review
Building on the developments used on the M3 Competition Package, the M3 CS adopts a number of lightweight body components in line with the approach taken for the M4 CS. These include a carbonfibre-reinforced plastic roof and bonnet. The new roof is claimed to save 6kg over the steel structure in the standard M3.
Further lightweight components include a carbonfibre front splitter, a lift-reducing boot-deck-mounted Gurney spoiler and a sizeable diffuser.
Inside, the M3 CS acquires the lightweight M sport seats and sport steering wheel from the M3 Competition Package. Borrowing a cue from the new M5, there’s also a new red starter button.
Despite the focus on performance, features such as BMW’s Professional navigation system, climate control air conditioning and a Harman Kardon sound system are fitted as standard, and the rear seats are retained. However, buyers can specify the new four-door with a series of unique Alcantara and leather accents as an option.
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The article is wrong
"The top speed of the M3 CS is the same as that of the M3 Competition Package at 174mph."
No, the raised top speed of the M3 CS only comes with the M Drivers Package, the M3 Competition Package version does not have this. That car is limited to 155mph, the same as the standard M3.
Sounds bad....
...and I don't just mean the apparent 'attack-of-the-accountants' that has occured by cheapskating in the lubrication department...if Bimmerpost is to be believed. And I do indeed believe them. The worst M3 engine ever made ? Certainly the worst sounding. I've no desire to own one, drive one nor, indeed, to be aurally assorted by one on the street. There's something deeply "I-own-a-chain-of-Cash-&-Carry-warehouses-in-Bradford" about the F82....unfortunately.
Something has gone tragically
Agreed.
Sad really. They've allowed quality to drop.