The New BMW M3 CS

Singapore. May 2018. BMW M GmbH is presenting another exclusive, limited-run special-edition model in the shape of the new BMW M3 CS.       Tesla’s Model 3 claiming to perform better than the M3 is like a deaf man proclaiming he has better vision. Besides the engineering marvels underneath and a glorious exhaust orchestra which the former lacks, the new BMW M3’s Competition Sport special-edition model will be produced as a limited run of approximately 1,200 units - and that too without production issues. Continuing the decades-long tradition of successful M special editions which began in 1988 with the E30 BMW M3 Evolution, the new BMW M3 CS is the four-door high-performance sedan that serves up a perfect blend of dynamism and everyday practicality. For starters, It is a lot simpler to pronounce than its shamrock-badged rival, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. Matching the collectors’ appeal is a road-tax renewal friendly 3.0-litre high-performance State-of-the-art M TwinPower Turbo technology. While not as award-winning as Alfa’s Ferrari F154 V6 engine and incurring a 50 hp gap between the two, the less-thirsty M3 CS does 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds - same as the Giulia Quadrifoglio.The top speed of this new special edition, which comes as standard with the M Driver’s Package, is electronically limited to 280 km/h although it does exceed the output of the M3 with Competition Package by a “Porsche-ishly significant” 10 horsepower, raising it to 460 hp. With its two mono-scroll turbochargers, charge air cooler, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing, the six-cylinder in-line engine develops significant torque from low engine speeds and still manages to achieve high levels of efficiency. A specially tuned sports exhaust system – with its quartet of tailpipes – reverberates its aural superiority. Something the M3 CS is historically well-known for. As a standard, the new M3 CS sports a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic. A separate oil cooler enables both automated gear changes and manual interventions using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. It changes gears in fractions of a second with no interruption in the flow of power, but employs a long seventh gear to keep revs low and minimise fuel consumption over longer journeys, providing comfortable cabin space to free yourself from seat suction. Like the Porsche GT3 RS having shared components with the GT2 RS, the suspension of the new BMW M3 CS largely mirrors that of the M3 with Competition Package. The links and wheel carriers at both the front and rear axles are made from forged aluminium and are therefore extremely light. That keeps the unsprung masses low and benefits driving dynamics. Another standard fitting is the Adaptive M suspension, whose geometry has been tuned to deliver optimised performance on both the road and track. Ensuring the best possible grip in all driving conditions are the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – which includes M Dynamic Mode – and the Active M Differential. The control systems for the Adaptive M suspension, DSC and Active M Differential have been modified to suit the dynamic requirements of the BMW M3 CS, as has the set-up of the electromechanical steering. The driver has the option of adjusting the steering and suspension settings to their personal preferences or the demands of the route at hand. The special edition’s light-alloy wheels (front: 9 J x 19, rear: 10 J x 20) are very much at home on the race track, fitted as they are (as standard) with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (front: 265/35 R 19, rear: 285/30 R 20). These semi-slick cup tyres, which are also road-legal, provide unbeatable grip and supreme lateral stability at high track speeds - just short of ripping manhole covers off the streets. The M3 CS can also be ordered with Michelin Sport road tyres. Interiors are lathered with the generous use of two-tone full leather in Silverstone/Black and Alcantara, creating a compelling and well-resolved ambience brimming with sporting allure and undeniable class. No M3 CS driver will need to compromise on the nicer things in life - even the tacky fabric door handles, reminiscent of spartan Lotuses, are replaced with proper door handles. Indeed, among the standard features on board are automatic climate control, a Harman Kardon surround sound system and the Navigation system Professional. True to form, the BMW M GmbH designers have given the new M3 CS looks that reflect the car’s sporting intent. The signature feature of its prominent front end, complete with cutting-edge twin LED headlights, is the front apron with large, three-section air intakes. The Gurney spoiler lip on the boot lid has been newly designed specifically for the new M3 CS, and teams up with the front splitter and the rear diffuser to help minimise dynamic lift. These components are made from the lightweight and extremely rigid high-tech material carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), as are the bonnet and roof of the new BMW M3 CS. The special-edition model – which will be limited to a run of approximately 1,200 units will be built from March 2018. While pricing is unknown, it is likely to be between the Giulia Quadrifoglio and the Nissan GTR. (Fuel consumption combined: 8.5 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 198 g/km*)