New BMW M8 CS spotted testing at the Nurburgring

BMW could soon launch an even faster version of the M8 Coupe, judging by these new spy shots taken at the Nurburgring.

Possibly called M8 CS, it’ll join the recently launched M5 CS super saloon in the company’s line-up, offering a small power gain and some fairly extensive chassis modifications designed to make it better around a track.

We expect the new BMW M8 CS will share the same lightly modified twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine as the M5 CS, which produces 626bhp and 750Nm of torque. The two cars already share the same engine in standard Competition form, so it would be reasonable for BMW to transfer the saloon’s upgrades onto the big coupe.

Tweaks would include an improved oil system, better cooling, a freer-flowing exhaust and a full engine ECU remap, but the upgrades should only produce a marginal 10bhp extra over the M8 Competition. The M8’s eight-speed automatic gearbox and configurable four-wheel-drive system will also remain.

Chassis upgrades will be a little more extensive. This test car’s ride height appears to have been lowered and, behind its alloy wheels, there are some new cross-drilled brake discs and larger calipers. Under the skin, we’re expecting more carry-over parts from the M5 CS, such as upgraded and retuned suspension dampers, and stiffer engine mounts.

This development model’s visual tweaks offer function as much as they do form. The deeper front splitter, large rear wing and aggressive new diffuser will all benefit the coupe’s aerodynamic performance, while the reshaped vents behind the front wheel arches should help expel high pressure air and heat from the brakes.

Inside, we’re expecting a similarly race-inspired makeover, with a pair of lightweight bucket seats, an Alcantara steering wheel, new coloured seat belts and some carbon fibre trim. Like the M5 CS, buyers could also get a larger 12.3-inch infotainment system to replace the standard car’s 10.25-inch unit.

The M8 CS should reach the UK by the end of the year, with BMW’s new flagship large coupe rivalling the Bentley Continental GT Speed and the Porsche 911 Turbo S. The price increase over the standard car should be comparable to that of the M5 Competition and the M5 CS, at around £40,000 extra, taking the M8 CS entry-point to around £160,000.

Now read our review of the BMW M8 Competition…