2018 BMW M3 CS Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byCalvin KimVehicle Test Engineer

　　Calvin Kim is an automotive journalist at zzdcar.

　　

What's new

Carbon-fiber hood, roof and trim piecesMore power (453 hp and 443 lb-ft) and sportier suspension calibrationLightweight interior parts, such as seats and stereoPart of the fifth M3 generation introduced for 2015

　　It's easy to argue that the BMW M3 occupies a central part of the spectrum between everyday sedan and sports car. It's one of the most accessible practical sport sedans that most drivers can buy. You could take it to a track day in the morning and then head to a fancy dinner with a date that same evening.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 BMW M3 CS 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$253/mo  for M3 CS Base

　　M3 CS Base

　　4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A) (Most Popular) - $98,250 MSRP

　　vs

　　$164/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　But what if you want something more aggressive? BMW hopes its latest special edition, dubbed the M3 CS, is what sport-sedan purists are craving.

　　The M3 CS has a more powerful engine thanks to software recalibration and sport exhaust. It now produces 453 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, which is a 28 hp and 37 lb-ft increase over the standard M3. Midrange power is broader, and BMW retuned the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for quicker shifts and launches. The suspension has also been completely reworked for a much narrower and sportier range of adjustability.

　　Also on tap are the carbon-fiber exterior panels and CS-exclusive interior. The hood, roof, diffuser, and spoiler are all made of carbon fiber. On the inside, faux suede and contrast stitching are everywhere, while lightweight bucket seats keep the driver and passenger connected to the car. Finally, the climate controls and audio system are lightened versions unique to the CS.

　　From a performance perspective, the 2018 BMW M3 CS is the top dog and is perfect for BMW fans who frequent the track. But if you're looking for a street-friendly sport sedan, it's probably better to stick with the standard M3.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

　　It's easy to argue that the BMW M3 occupies a central part of the spectrum between everyday sedan and sports car. It's one of the most accessible practical sport sedans that most drivers can buy. You could take it to a track day in the morning and then head to a fancy dinner with a date that same evening.

　　

Which M3 CS does zzdcar recommend?

　　The 2018 BMW M3 CS is a limited-edition model and is a subvariant of BMW's popular M3. If you have an interest in unique BMW sport sedans, and your local dealer has a CS, we suggest you buy it. BMW will only make them for one year.

　　

2018 BMW M3 CS models

　　The 2018 BMW M3 CS is a limited-edition variant of the regular M3 sedan. It features more power, a stiffer suspension, and unique interior and exterior treatments. The M3 CS is only available in one trim and uses a twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine that produces 453 hp and 443 pound-feet of torque to drive the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

　　Much like the standard M3, the M3 CS comes equipped with an exclusive exterior fascia and interior trim package. A staggered tire setup — 19-inch front and 20-inch rear — comes with summer performance tires. You also get an adaptive suspension, and an electrically adjustable rear differential sends power evenly to both rear wheels.

　　But the M3 CS isn't a stripped-out sport sedan. Standard equipment includes a surround-sound audio system, navigation, power-adjustable front seats, Apple CarPlay connectivity, and BMW's ConnectedDrive and Remote Services systems that integrate your smartphone to the car.

　　Safety-oriented standard features include adaptive cruise control, LED headlights, automatic windshield wipers, auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, and a rearview camera.

　　The M3 CS is light on options. The Executive package includes rear power sunshade and manual side window sunshades, ultrasonic parking sensors, adaptive LED headlights with automatic high-beam activation, a head-up display and speed-limit sign recognition.

　　The only stand-alone options are for carbon-ceramic brakes and two special-order paint colors: Frozen Dark Blue II and Lime Rock Grey.

　　

2018 M3 CS Highlights

　　

Base MSRP	$98,250
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	19 MPG
Cost to Drive	$253/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	12.0 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles