ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS PREVIEWS THE NEW BMW M3 CS

Yet another addition to the BMW family, the M3 CS is an exclusive high-performance car that combines dynamic prowess with the everyday usability of an M3 saloon.

M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986. The latest to come out of Bavaria features intelligent lightweight construction, carbon fibre-reinforced plastic components, increased engine power and a bespoke chassis setup. Exclusive design features and specification ensure exhilarating performance and give this M car a character profile all its own. Under the bonnet a 550bhp six-cylinder in-line engine with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. There is performance aplenty with rest to 100kph (62 mph) taking just 3.4 seconds and on to an electronically limited 303kph (188mph) top speed.

Production will be built on a limited run at BMW Group Plant Munich, the UK, the USA, Germany, and Japan will be the most important markets for this new special model. The heart of the new car is a carefully modified version of the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine, with M TwinPower Turbo technology, developed for the M3 andM4. The modifications result in a considerable upgrade of 40bhp in peak output compared with the M3 Competition Saloon. The engine’s performance characteristics are dominated by its unabated power delivery right through the rev range and enhancing the soundtrack is the dual-branch exhaust system, featuring electrically controlled flaps and a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design. In customary M fashion, it features two pairs of matt black tailpipes which help produce the emotionally rich soundtrack. The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic is operated using either the M-specific selector lever, on the centre console, or the carbon-fibre shift paddles on the steering wheel. The transmission’s shift characteristics can also be altered using the Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever, with the choice of comfort-oriented, sport and track-optimised settings. The chassis technology has been tuned precisely to the engine’s performance characteristics and to complement the overall vehicle concept and weight distribution. The model-specific settings for the DSC system and M Dynamic Mode have also been purposefully geared to the specific demands of high-speed circuit driving.

There are numerous individual design features; exclusive to this latest special-edition model is the Frozen Solid White paint. 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 this new paint. Signal Green, Brooklyn Grey and Sapphire Black are available as alternative exterior colours. BMW Laserlight headlights, also included as part of the standard specification, add a particularly striking and distinct look to the front end. By illuminating yellow instead of white, both during the Welcome sequence when the vehicle is unlocked and while low beam or high beam is switched on, they reference successful GT racing cars.

The inside of the new BMW M3 CS has been designed with driving pleasure and maximum performance in mind, enhanced by advanced digital technology and exclusive design elements. The M Carbon bucket seats in a model-specific design, and fitted as standard, greet both the driver and front passenger, fully electric and heated; they include integral head restraints along with an illuminated model badge. This results in a unique blend of racing flair and long-distance comfort. BMW Live Cockpit Professional, fitted as standard, incorporates the BMW Maps navigation system, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, Smartphone integration, telephony with wireless charging and a WiFi interface. The new M is also equipped, as standard, with the latest version of Comfort Access, two-zone automatic climate control, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system. Also this latest special-edition model includes the BMW Head-Up Display (with M-specific readouts) and the BMW Drive Recorder. An alarm system, automatic boot lid operation and the Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant systems are also included.

Ian Lynas