Auto Shanghai 2017: BMW M4 CS breaks cover

BMW enthusiasts would love the name given to the German carmaker’s latest entry. Playing up the legendary CS moniker, BMW has christened its newest as M4 CS, which took the stage at the Shanghai Motor Show. This isn’t the first time BMW has used the CS insignia on its cars. Enthusiasts will remember that back in 1960-70s, the 3200CS was a classic sports touring car designed by Bertone. Then there was the 2000CS developed by Karmann. And who can forget the 1971 3.0 CS which later spawned a lighter, iconic 3.0 CSL Batmobile. And now fast forward to 2017 and the M4 CS.

The standard M4 Coupe is topped by the Competition Pack, while higher up the ladder sits the hardcore track focused M4 GTS. Positioned between the two is the new M4 CS, which is a rather sweet spot to be. Given that the limited edition GTS is sold out, the CS becomes the most potent M4 on sale today. The 3.0-litre twin turbocharged straight-six now delivers 454bhp (30bhp more than standard M4). This raw power is channelled to the rear wheels via a dual-clutch seven-speed auto (no manual transmission here unfortunately). The Bavarian sprints to 100kmph in mere 3.9 seconds and clocks a top speed of 280kmph. In Fact, BMW says that the CS has lapped the Green Hell in 7.38 minutes.

The CS benefits from the GTS’ weight saving measures. With extensive use of carbon fibre on boot, roof and other composite material, the CS tips the scale at 1580kg, giving the CS a power-to-weight ratio of 287bhp/tonne. There are new carbon fibre splitters up front and a lip spoiler on the boot. The lightweight alloy wheels are wrapped in special 285 section Michelin tyres. 

On the inside, the CS gets Alcantara-wrapped upholstery, M-Sport seats and steering wheel, and all the other goodies from the Competition Pack. There are two metallic colours for the CS – San Marino Blue and Lime Rock Grey. To make it more alluring, a Frozen Dark Blue II will also be available later.

BMW asserts the CS badging is here to stay. It will adorn the beefier versions positioned above the Competition Pack vehicles in the years to come. This makes the upcoming M2 CS an even more irresistible. BMW has priced the M4 CS at €116,900, and it will go on sale sometime in 2018.