BMW reveals limited-run M3 CS

BMW has revealed that its potent special-edition M4 CS, due here by the end of the year, will be joined by a four-door M3 version around the third quarter of 2018.

The M3 CS will be produced in a limited run of just 1200 globally, with only a small number expected to make their way Down Under from BMW’s Regensburg, Germany, factory after production starts in March next year.

BMW Australia general manager corporate communications Lenore Fletcher told GoAuto that the new variant had yet to be confirmed for Australia.

"But are we interested? You bet," she said.

Should it arrive in Australia as expected, pricing could be around the $200,000 mark, if the $211,610 sticker price of the M4 CS is anything to go by.

Powering the M3 CS is an uprated version of the 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine in the M3, with power boosted by 7kW and 50Nm over the M3 Competition, for a total output of 338kW and 600Nm.

Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. A specially tuned stainless steel M sports exhaust system gives the CS a signature sound.

Completing the zero-to-100km/h sprint takes 3.9 seconds, beating the Mercedes-AMG C63 S by 0.1s. The electronically limited top speed is 280km/h.

The CS gets the adaptive M suspension system from the M3 Competition, along with dynamic stability control (which allows for slight wheel slip) and adaptive electromechanical steering, while a limited-slip differential provides extra stability and grip.

The Orbit Grey 19-inch front and 20-inch rear light-alloy wheels are shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 semi-slick rubber.

Stopping comes courtesy of M-compound brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear callipers, while carbon-ceramic brakes are optional.

As with the M4 CS, light weight carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) panels haave been used extensively throughout the vehicle, including on the bonnet, roof and rear diffuser (borrowed from the M4 CS), while the front splitter and rear lip spoiler are crafted from exposed carbon-fibre.

The kerb weight of 1585kg makes it lighter than the M3 Competition.

A signature three-part front apron and LED headlights add to its sporty look, as do darkened LED tail-lights.

Exterior colour options include standard Alpine White, or metallic shades of San Marino Blue, Lime Rock Grey, Frozen Dark Blue II or Black Sapphire.

Inside, the M3 CS comes decked out in a mix of two-tone leather and Alcantara with CS branding on the door sills, while the start button is red.

M sports seats are fitted as standard, while the Alcantara M sports steering wheel with silver 12 o’clock marking is on the options list.

Standard equipment includes a Harman Kardon surround-sound system, navigation system Professional and automatic climate control.

The M3 and M4 CS siblings join a growing list of potent BMW special editions, including the hardcore M4 GTS and M4 DTM, 30 Years M3 and newly introduced entry-level M3 and M4 Pure variants.

Exact allocation numbers and pricing will be revealed closer to its release date.