The next
generation of the BMW M3 will be a big deal and not just because of its
oversized kidney grilles. As before, the G80 M3 will boast several model variants,
with the one offering the best power-to-weight ratio likely to be the M3 CS
(Club Sport). Today we give you the first photos of the G80 M3 CS.
The most prominent are the front lip spoiler, the
CS-style trunk spoiler, and the staggered wheels. As with the outgoing model,
the next-generation M3 CS will also feature many upgrades over the standard G80
M3 that the eyes can’t see.
Those are likely to include a power
upgrade, unique exhaust system, carbon fiber hood and roof for less weight (not
fitted to this particular prototype), unique wheels shod with ultra-high
performance tires, and microfiber suede interior bits. We should also expect a
revised DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, revised limited-slip
differential and tweaked driving modes giving it an extra edge over lesser M3s.
These photos also provide the clearest
look yet at the G80 M3’s optional carbon fiber bucket seats which will offer
the tightest body-hugging experience. The rest of the cabin will look pretty
much like your regular M340i but with more carbon fiber trim, a special
steering wheel and BMW M badges galore.
In the engine compartment, we know that
the G80 M3 will feature the new S58 engine from the X3 M and X4 M. The
turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six is expected to deliver 473 HP in
the base model and 503 HP in the M3 Competition. Logic would dictate
that the M3 CS will feature even more power.
Factor in the manual transmission option
and rear-wheel-drive setup (base M3s will feature standard rear-biased AWD and
automatic transmission) and there’s not much more a BMW purist could ask from
an M3.
