The BMW M division celebrated its 50th anniversary last year with the introduction of several new models, one of which hard M4 CSL.
The M3 did not have a similar hardcore version, which probably disappointed fans of the more practical M thoroughbred. It turns out they just needed to be patient, as BMW M unveiled a new M3 CS for the 2024 model year on Tuesday.
The CS cars fill the gap between the Competition grade and the tough CSL. They increase performance in the usual way, with more power and less weight, and the same is true for the latest M3 CS. The car has the same 543 horsepower as the M4 CSL, generated by BMW M’s familiar twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 engine. Increase performance a The M3 Competition has 503 hp it is due to the extra boost pressure and modifications to the ECU.
The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive and delivers a 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 188 mph at full power. All-wheel drive, a BMW M unique set-up, uses a multi-plate clutch to transfer torque between the axles. The system has rear bias, and 4WD Sport mode can increase this bias further. If the driver prefers classic rear-wheel drive, it is also possible to direct all drive torque to the rear wheels only.
Other chassis modifications include aluminum spring struts for increased stiffness, enlarged brakes (carbon-ceramic rotors), and custom tuning of stability control, camber, shock absorbers and roll bars to improve track performance. The wheels can be ordered in gold or matte black and measure 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. The wheels come with high-performance tires as standard, but customers can also install track-ready Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires at no charge. The size of the tires is always 275/35 at the front and 285/30 at the rear.
To reduce weight, BMW M engineers used lightweight carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic for the bonnet, roof, front splitter, front intakes, side mirror caps and rear spoiler. Carbon components are also used throughout the cabin, including the standard bucket seats with merino leather. A titanium muffler completes the list of weight-saving mods, which total about 75 pounds. However, the stated curb weight is still around 3,915 pounds.
The new dashboard was also presented inside in Series 3 by 2023. It does away with the traditional instrument panel, leaving a 12.3-inch floating screen for the instrument cluster, joined by a second 14.9-inch floating screen for the infotainment center. Both screens feature M-specific displays in the M3 CS.
Also standard is M Drive Professional, which includes the M Drift Analyzer and M Laptimer for recording drives for later evaluation. M Drive Professional includes M Traction Control, which allows the driver to adjust the traction control between 10 settings, and the M Mode driving mode selector, which has Road, Sport and Track options.
The 2024 M3 CS has been confirmed as a limited edition – BMW M has not said how limited – and is scheduled to arrive later this year with a starting price of $119,695, including a $995 on-road cost.
HIGH RESOLUTION GALLERY: 2024 BMW M4 CS
This article was originally published by Motor Vehicle Authority, editorial partner ClassicCars.com.
