
BMW M's MOST POWERFUL COMPACT SEDAN
Thanks to the wonders of the interwebs, we're treated to a sneak peak of the all-new G80 M3 CS. Leaked ahead of its official debut, which will take place next week at the 24 Hours of Daytona.
Info is still quite scarce for this new addition to the G8x line up. But, using our keen sense of deduction and the leaked images provided, we can agree on a few points.
Seen here in Signal Green, BMW M has decided to blend some of the elements of the hardcore M4 CSL with its more "family-oriented" sibling.
The front end is a copy-paste of the M4 CSL's fascia with the updated grills, lower lip and twin vented hood. Also not forgetting the yellow DRLs (which seem to be making quite the comeback, I thought we were done with these in the 00's and 10's🙃).
As we move to the side, stance pretty much remains as the same as the M3 Competition. With just the addition of the ultra-lightweight wheel package lifted from the M4 CSL as well.
The least has been done to the rear of the car, as you simply wouldn't be able to tell the difference between this and any other G80 on the road - if you haven't read the badge that is. The only changes to report are... the addition of the CS letters to the badge...
BMW M has chosen not to give the M3 CS, the M4 CSL's ducktail-shaped boot. As this remains a CSL-only design (rightfully so). I did however expect an LCI1 facelift / updated set of taillights. As heading into 2023, the design itself will already be 4 years old and atleast time for its LCI.
From an interior perspective, the ultra-lightweight carbon fibre bucket seats, Alcantara trimmed steering wheel and middle rest bearing the CS badge have also been added to the cockpit. The rear seats remain as is but usure if the switch will be made to 2 bucket seats - a la M5 CS.
Rumoured to have the same power as the M4 CSL, the M3 CS will be packing 543hp. But still retains the M-XDrive system from the M3 Competition and 8 Speed Sports-Auto, which would make it blisteringly quick at the lights!
Other rumours are that BMW M will also shave the same amount of weight off this as the M4 CSL - 100kg. I really don't see this happening while still retaining the M-XDrive system and seat config of the M3, so we'll just have to wait and see.
No talk of pricing whatsoever yet but it's assumed the M3 CS won't be as expensive as the M4 CSL and should sit firmly between the G8x M Competition and the M4 CSL.
So, what are your thoughts?? Will this be a success for the G8x lineup? OR, a sales disaster like its F8x counterpart? Which was (quite frankly) the least desirable of its gen on launch, due the hefty price tag and minimal improvements...💬💬
[SOURCE PICS: DRIVEAU]
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