The M5 CS debuted last year as the “quickest and most powerful production BMW car ever,” and it’s about to get a smaller sibling in the form of the M3 CS.
Recently spied undergoing testing on and around the Nürburgring, the model will essentially be a four-door version of the M4 CSL.
The similarities are impossible to ignore as spy photographers snapped the two models parked next to one another. As you can see, each features a revised grille that trades horizontal bars for a bone-like structure. That isn’t the only change as the models have a prominent front splitter with canards.
Also Read: BMW M4 CSL Shows New OLED Taillights Ahead Of May 20 Debut
Moving further back, we can see a carbon fiber roof, aerodynamic mirrors, and lightweight wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. The latter are backed up by a high-performance braking system with bronze calipers. Other highlights include a new rear spoiler and a carbon fiber diffuser.
While the rear side windows are camouflaged, the M3 CS likely won’t follow in the footsteps of the M4 CSL by eliminating the rear seats. However, the company may offer two individual rear seats like they did on the M5 CS.
Speaking of the interior, we can see what appears to be carbon fiber shelled front seats with two-tone upholstery. The M3 CS will also be equipped with a Curved Display that features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment system. Of course, this isn’t too surprising as BMW recently announced the display will become standard equipment on the M3 and M4 this summer.
On the performance front, we can expect an upgraded twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine developing around 533 hp (397 kW / 540 PS). While that number should be taken with a grain of salt, it would be a sizable improvement over the M3 Competition, which boasts 503 hp (375 kW / 510 PS).
