BMW Sharpens The M3 With Limited Edition CS

Maybe BMW has heard people talking about how the M3 has become bloated and soft. Whatever the reason, the Bavarians have unleashed the 2018 BMW M3 CS, which is the first time a four-door model has worn the coveted “CS” badge.

Cutting to the chase, BMW has tuned this car to whip out 453 horsepower and 443 lb.-ft. of torque. To make the most of the setup, you’re supposed to use 98 octane gas, which could be a challenge, depending on where you live.

So here’s the thing: that uplift in power is somewhat significant, but it’s not insane. In fact, if you get the competition package for a regular M3, supposedly the car puts out 444 horsepower. Is the limited-edition CS just marketing spin?

Is nothing sacred anymore? In these times when BMW has convinced everyone four-door cars are “coupes” and insists on continuing to make “GT” models with a rear uglier than a donkey’s, maybe we shouldn’t be surprised.

As the cherry on top, you can’t get this car with a manual. Instead, a 7-speed DCT automatic is the only transmission available. It’s a great tranny, but some people will be disappointed. Through different lightweighting methods, the car lost 110 pounds. BMW claims a 0 to 60 time of 3.7 seconds. That’s .2 seconds faster than the regular M3.

Are you impressed? Or is this a sign that BMW has truly lost its edge?