► M3 CS is lighter and more powerful
► A saloon car built for the track
► On sale in March for £115,900
BMW has just revealed its new M3 CS: a lighter, angrier and more powerful super saloon for 2023.
The M division has dug into its parts catalogue to the point that those familiar with the M4 CSL may realise the specs are similar.
The M3 CS’s 3.0-litre straight-six has been given a power bump to 542bhp – 39bhp more than the M3 Competition, coming from a raising of the turbocharger’s boost pressure (from 1.7 to 2.1 bar). New engine mounts have been applied, too, with BMW promising a sharper throttle response. BMW says the M3 CS is capable of sprinting to 62mph in 3.4 seconds and topping out at 188mph.
But it’s not just about power. The M3 CS is 20kg lighter due to wider use of carbonfibre in the likes of the bonnet, splitters, rear diffuser and rear spoiler. M’s carbon bucket seats are standard, and a new titanium exhaust shaves off some precious kilos. Carbon ceramic brakes are optional.
Unlike the M4 CSL, however, the M3 CS is all-wheel drive, complete with the brand’s active differential.
As with all M cars, the interior gets a bespoke treatment with customisable drive modes and benefits from the brand’s new curved display with M-specific graphics.
Want one? Get in quick; BMW says the M3 CS is only getting a limited production run and it’ll cost you £115,900 for the pleasure.