Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW M3 CS

Now the new 3-Series has been launched, the M3's days are numbered. Even so, with a V8 replacement not due until next year, BMW is keeping performance buyers happy with this special edition, the CS.

Although it's due for replacement, the M3 is still a great car - and the CS is even better. For £2,400 more, it offers a more involving driving experience with the virtues of an amazing straight-six engine and a practical coup

Now the new 3-Series has been launched, the M3's days are numbered. Even so, with a V8 replacement not due until next year, BMW is keeping performance buyers happy with this special edition, the CS.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Based on the M3, it adds go-faster bits borrowed from the now out-of-production CSL - the ultimate 3-Series, which had a carbon fibre bonnet, glass roof and a £59,000 price tag.

The CS is less extreme and a bit more affordable. For an extra £2,400 over the £41,155 M3, you get a quicker steering rack, bigger brakes and CSL-style 19-inch alloys. The CS also comes with the CSL's stability system which, activated by a button on a new Alcantara steering wheel, lets the car slide more before the traction control intervenes.

BMW has not uprated the suspension any further, though, and the 338bhp 3.2-litre powerplant remains the same, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

On the move, the ride is still as firm and the brakes just as strong as the M3's, but the quicker steering means the CS is sharper and more involving to drive - exactly what BMW needed to improve. One area it didn't have to better was the engine. And with its metallic straight-six howl, Porsche 911-rivalling acceleration and masses of torque, it is one of the world's best units.

Notchy gearchanges let the new car down, while £43,555 is a lot to pay for a 3-Series coup

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £15,675
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,271 off RRP*Used from £11,595
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £4,364 off RRP*Used from £8,595
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,951
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025
Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy
Marcos, interior

Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy

Development is already underway on the first all-new Marcos cars in roughly 20 years
News
27 Jun 2025
Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025