2018 BMW M3 CS revealed, local arm keen
The BMW M3 CS has been revealed, adding yet another variant – albeit in limited numbers – to the Bavarian manufacturer’s sports sedan lineup.
In similar fashion to the M4 CS, the M3 CS sits one rung up above the Competition Package variant, bringing more power, a more focused look, and extensive use of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP).
Under the bonnet is a reworked version of the 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight six from the ‘regular’ M3 range, now developing 338kW (460hp) of power and 600Nm (442lb-ft) of torque – representing an increase of 7kW and 50Nm over the M3 Competition.
Performance claims include a 3.9-second 0-100km/h sprint, along with an electronically-limited top speed of 280km/h (174mph).
Specification highlights for the M3 CS include a model-specific sports exhaust, M compound brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers, special Orbit Grey matte DTM-design alloy wheels (19-inch front and 20-inch rear), and Alcantara interior trim highlights contrasting with two-tone Silverstone/Black leather upholstery.
Carbon-fibre reinforced plastic has been used for the bonnet, roof, splitter and rear diffuser, helping shave 10kg from the standard M3’s 1560kg kerb weight.
Just 1200 BMW M3 CS sedans will be produced globally, with production to commence in March 2018. Global markets – presumably Europe and the US – will be able to place orders from January 2018.
Australia
BMW’s local division is unable to provide many Australian details for the M3 CS, though product communications manager, Adam Davis, told CarAdvice the Australian arm expects to offer a small number of vehicles which will likely arrive in the third quarter of next year.
Considering the M4 CS came with a price tag of $211,610 in Australia, expect the M3 CS to sit around the $200,000 mark when it lobs Down Under.
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