M3 CS gets M4 CSL motor and other tweaks
CS takes M3 one step beyond Competition
Think of this new 2024 BMW M3 CS like its M4 CSL counterpart but with more doors. A sharper, more powerful M3 with all-wheel drive that will absolutely destroy the M3 Competition.
It starts with the same version of BMW’s M-spec 3.0L twin-turbo I6 that is used in the two-door CSL. This version of the engine makes 543 hp, 40 more than the M3 Competition can manage. The extra power comes largely from extra boost pressure at higher RPM, so torque stays the same at 479 lb-ft.
New engine mounts are stiffer, meant to make the M3 CS feel sharper and let the driver feel more connected to the car. BMW M has also tweaked the oiling and cooling systems to help make sure they can stand up to heavy track use.
The engine mounts might help connect you to the car, but if you’re hoping that means a stick you’ll be disappointed. The 2024 M3 CS is only offered with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, though it has an “optimized oil supply” to help keep the center diff working on track. The center diff also allows a rear-drive-only mode once you’ve turned off all of the electronic aids.
BMW says it has tuned the chassis to match the engine, and that includes dampers and anti-roll bars (as well as suspension geometry) specific to the M3 CS. M compound brake pads are fitted, and the car wears Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires as standard.
The 2024 M3 CS has plenty of carbon fibre and titanium, with the hood, front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler all made from the lightweight composite and the muffler made from the alloy. The savings is slight, though, just 34 kilos lighter than a Competition thanks to extra bracing and other changes.
There are cosmetic changes too, including exclusive paint colours and the option for exposed carbon fibre. The CS has a unique grille, too, and DRLs that show yellow instead of white. Inside, the car has M Carbon buckets with CS badging included.
BMW says it will build limited numbers of the 2024 M3 CS, but didn’t say just how limited. Production starts in March and the Canadian MSRP is $148,000.
