The new BMW M3 CS is set to blast into South Africa in limited numbers soon. Though all local units are already spoken for, we now know pricing for this 405 kW sedan…

The new BMW M3 CS was revealed towards the end of January 2023, with the Munich-based firm’s local division confirming 20 units had been allocated to South Africa, with an expected arrival date in the 3rd quarter of the year.

As you might have predicted, all 20 units of this limited-run super-saloon have already been spoken for. Still, with the M3 CS set to hit local roads soon, you’re probably wondering how much each example cost its owner. Well, thanks to our learned colleagues over at duoporta.com, we now know the starting price.

The M3 CS kicks off at R2 971000, which represents a R930203 premium over the standard M3 Competition M xDrive. That also makes its more expensive than the M5 Competition (R2 472466) and the pre-facelift X5 M Competition (R2 928994), though not quite as pricey as the 480 kW XM (R3 400000), which will cost even more in upcoming 550 kW Label Red guise.

As a reminder, just like the M4 CSL, the new M3 CS employs a version of the twin-turbo 3.0-litre, inline-6 engine developing 405 kW (30 kW more than the M3 Competition xDrive, but not quite as much as the not-for-SA 3.0 CSL) and an unchanged 650 Nm. However, while the M4 CSL’s 8-speed automatic transmission drives the rear wheels, the M3 CS is offered exclusively in all-wheel-drive form, complete with a fully variable active M differential at the rear.

Just like in a standard M3, a dedicated 2WD mode allows controlled drifts…

The CS-badged 4-door model – which features a model-specific frameless grille (complete with red contour lines) as well as yellow BMW Laserlight headlights – will thus complete the obligatory 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 3.4 seconds, which makes it a tenth quicker to the mark than the all-paw M3 Competition. BMW claims the newcomer will reach 200 kph in 11.1 seconds, while the fact the M Driver’s Package ships standard results in an electronically limited top speed as high as 302 kph.

According to the German firm, the M3 CS weighs about 20 kg less than the likewise all-wheel-drive version of the M3 Competition, with the spec sheet listing an unladen weight of 1 765 kg. Much of this saving was achieved through the use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), with the roof, bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, side-mirror caps, rear diffuser, rear spoiler and various in-cabin parts all fashioned from the lightweight material.

Inside, the M3 CS features electric and heated M Carbon bucket seats with integral head restraints and illuminated model badges. These special pews are upholstered in Merino leather with a black-and-red colour scheme and contrast stitching. This 2-tone finish is repeated on the pair of seats at the rear, while the door panels are trimmed in black leather.

How much does the BMW M3 CS cost in South Africa?

BMW M3 CS – R2 971 000

The purchase price includes a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

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