BMW M GmbH maintains its focus on adding highly appealing special-edition models to its product range in 2023 with the launch of the all-new BMW M3 CS.

This gives the BMW M3 CS a unique character profile and the ability to serve up the undiluted M feeling that excites and enthralls over every mile on the road as well as on the track.

The car brings greater intensity to the racing allure that marks out the company’s successful high-performance models for the premium midsize segment, says BMW.

The powertrain concept for the new BMW M3 CS teams a 550 hp six-cylinder in-line engine with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. This setup produces a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds. The BMW M3 CS comes with the M Driver’s Package as standard and has an electronically limited top speed of 302 km/h.

The new BMW M3 CS will be built in a limited run at BMW Group Plant Munich from March 2023, with its phased launch getting underway the same month.

More power, less weight

A more power/less weight formula instils the new BMW M3 CS with compelling performance qualities. It draws its power from a specially upgraded version of the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed for the BMW M3 and BMW M4 models.

The engine also boasts a wealth of technological details derived directly from the race-car unit. Its crankcase has a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction and is extremely rigid, making it suitable for very high combustion pressures. Its cylinder head has a 3D-printed core, allowing the coolant ducts to be routed in an optimum arrangement for temperature management that would be impossible to achieve using conventional metal casting methods. The system of oil supply is designed to handle the specific challenges of track use, as is the cooling system.

Straight-six engine produces 550 hp

The unit’s considerable upgrade potential paved the way for a 40hp hike in peak output compared with the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive, resulting in 550 hp. In addition, a specially designed engine mounting with increased spring rates creates an extremely rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure. A press of the accelerator is therefore greeted by even sharper engine response and direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain. The engine in the new BMW M3 CS puts peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) on tap from just 2,750 rpm and sustains it all the way to 5,950 rpm.

This is accompanied by the emotionally stirring soundtrack produced by the dual-branch exhaust system featuring electrically controlled flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design and – in customary M fashion – two pairs of tailpipes painted in matt Black. Selecting the SPORT or SPORT+ modes for the engine setting in the M Setup menu dials up the drive sound to produce a note with unmissable racing car undertones.

Lightweight construction

Extensive, model-specific lightweight design measures play a major part in moulding the performance qualities and exclusive character of the new BMW M3 CS. The use of components made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) both inside and out is of key importance here. Besides its carbon fibre roof, the special-edition model also uses this lightweight, high-tech material for its bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser and rear spoiler. Its centre console, the shift paddles on the steering wheel and its interior trim strips are likewise all manufactured from CFRP. The standard M Carbon bucket seats also do their bit to keep weight down in the cabin. The titanium rear silencer, meanwhile, shaves more than 4 kilograms off the weight of the exhaust system fitted on the new BMW M3 CS. The various lightweight design measures bring about a total weight saving of some 20 kg compared to the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive.

Exclusive design features

The new BMW M3 CS sports a sharper character with a series of individual design features. The Frozen Solid White metallic paint finish available for the exterior is exclusive to the latest special-edition model from BMW M GmbH. Exposed carbon-fibre surfaces for the roof, the two indents chiselled into the bonnet, the front splitter, front air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear apron combine with the Black side skirts and M gills to provide a stunning contrast to the new paint finish. Signal Green solid, Brooklyn Grey metallic and Sapphire Black metallic are available as alternative exterior colours.