BMW Australia has announced the introduction of a limited run M3 CS, to be launched at this weekend’s 24 Hours of Daytona race. The new addition to the high performance M line-up will arrive down under in the second half of 2023.
Bringing together intelligent lightweight construction with extensive use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), increased engine output and bespoke chassis setup, the new model will deliver exhilarating performance on both road and track.
Stacked with exclusive design features, its arrival will follow the debut of other key BMW M models including the XM – the first model developed from the ground up by BMW M since the M1 of 1978 and the first to feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The highly anticipated M3 Touring and second generation M2 coupé will also precede it. The M3 CS is powered by an M TwinPower in-line six cylinder engine that pumps out 405kW of power. That’s paired to the car maker’s xDrive system for optimal traction.
On the road, that translates to a blistering sprint to 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds. Peak torque is 650Nm, unleashed through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.
Design-wise, the M3 CS features Frozen Solid White metallic paint, and 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.
Black side skirts and M gills 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.
The vehicle’s front end sports a weight-saving, frameless BMW kidney grille, and Laserlight headlights which illuminate yellow instead of white. Inside, the driver and front passenger are welcomed by M Carbon bucket seats in a model-specific design.
Fully electric and heated, they feature integrated head restraints along with an illuminated model badge, resulting in a unique blend of racing flair and long-distance comfort. Upholstered in Merino leather, they feature an exclusive design in a black/red colour.
The standard equipment roster also includes M seat belts with a woven stripe pattern in BMW M colours, door sill plates bearing the inscription “M3 CS”, an Anthracite-coloured headliner, interior trim strips in carbon fibre finish and an M Alcantara steering wheel.
The latter includes CFRP shift paddles and red centre marker. Two individually configurable M modes are accessible from the steering wheel, and M Drive Professional is standard. This includes the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer functions, as well as M Traction Control.
The BMW M3 CS also boasts the latest-generation BMW iDrive vehicle experience (OS8), which includes a curved display for the cockpit. This is formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches.
Both are housed together behind a curved glass surface. With its ergonomic driver-centric positioning, and the inclusion of BMW Live Cockpit Professional, the display makes the already intuitive touch controls even more user-friendly.
The BMW head-up display with M-specific readouts is fitted as standard on Australian-delivered M3 CS models. The new BMW M3 CS additionally comes with comfort access, two-zone automatic climate control and a Harman/Kardon surround sound system.
The 2023 BMW M3 CS will also be available with optional carbon ceramic brakes ($16,500 additional cost), with pricing to start from $249,900 plus on-roads. For further information, contact your local BMW dealer.
