Autocar RSS Feed: 454bhp BMW M3 CS due for 2018 launch

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454bhp BMW M3 CS due for 2018 launch Oct 26th 2017, 11:24 Run-out F80 super-saloon will be lighter and get sharper chassis set-up BMW will launch the most hardcore series production M3 yet in spring 2018, with the new model set to be the definitive version of its F80-generation super-saloon. The M3 CS has been photographed testing at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, where it is expected to be launched next year ahead of the circuit's 24-hour racing event. BMW will compete in the Nürburgring 24 Hours, which runs during 12-13 May next year, with the M6 GT3. The M3 CS will follow the M4 CS in receiving a 10bhp boost for its turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six S55 engine, bringing its maximum output up to 454bhp. The redline will be raised to 7600rpm and torque is also due to peak higher at 442lb ft – 37lb ft more than the M3 Competition Package. The rear-wheel-drive car will feature a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic gearbox. The reveamped drivetrain should benefit from a freer-breathing exhaust system similar to the one fitted to the M3 Competition with less sound deadening. The CS will undergo a weight loss programme compared with the regular M3, with lightweight carbonfibre-reinforced plastic bonnet, carbon rear diffuser and fixed-height front splitter. Inside, there will be thinner door cards and a lighter stereo, which combine to cut around 35kg from the Competition Pack's 1560kg weight. The improvements will help trim the M3 CS's 0-62mph sprint time to about 3.9sec – three-tenths better than the M3 Competition. The electronic limiter that restricts the M3 to 155mph will be removed, raising its top speed beyond 170mph. The M3 CS will sit on an adjusted version of the M3 Competition's suspension to offer sharper responses, with 10-spoke forged wheels shared with the M4 CS that come wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres. Optional carbon ceramic brake discs, also shared with the M4 variant, will be offered. The M3 CS will be priced to sit above the M3 Competition Pack, likely around £85,000. This price would make the CS £23,420 more than the Competition Pack but about £4000 cheaper than the two-door M4 CS. Unlike the M4 CS, which sits below the M4 DTM and M4 GTS models, the M division is not expected to produce a higher-ranking version of the M3. Although BMW refrained from commenting on the M3 CS when contacted by Autocar, the 'werkstestwagen' - 'factory test car' in English - decal on the rear of the spotted development car backs information that it is the CS prototype being used by the M division. The performance arm has a base at the Nürburgring, where all of its road and race machines are developed and tested. BMW will use the CS moniker on an upcoming version of the M2. However, that car will have an even harder-edged performance focus with extreme light-weighting, so will be named the M2 CSL, with the L representing 'lightweight'. It is unlikely that an M3 CSL will be produced because of the car's heavier, four-door bodystyle. More content: M8 GTE racer offers first glimpse of upcoming 8 Series BMW M4 GT4 shown ahead of competition debut

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