The BMW M3 (F80) CS 3.0, equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine producing 460 horsepower, represents a focused, high-performance iteration of the F80 M3 sedan. Produced for a limited time between March and May 2018, the CS (Competition Sport) model aimed to bridge the gap between the standard M3 and the more track-focused M4 Competition Package. It was positioned as a premium offering within the F80 lineup, appealing to enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance and exclusivity without the extreme nature of the M4 CS. The F80 generation M3, launched in 2014, marked a significant departure from its predecessors by adopting a turbocharged engine and incorporating lightweight materials to improve handling and efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M3 |
| Generation | M3 (F80) |
| Type (Engine) | CS 3.0 (460 Hp) MDCT |
| Start of production | March, 2018 |
| End of production | May, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 194 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 280 km/h (173.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 460 Hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 4000-5380 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 4000-5380 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S55B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.9 l (14.69 US qt | 12.23 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1585 kg (3494.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4671 mm (183.9 in.) |
| Width | 1877 mm (73.9 in.) |
| Height | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2812 mm (110.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1579 mm (62.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 119 mm (4.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission M DCT |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/35 ZR 19 98Y; 285/30 ZR 20 99Y |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 19; 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the M3 CS 3.0 lies the S55B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine, a derivative of the powerplant found in the M4, benefits from twin-scroll turbochargers, direct fuel injection, and BMW’s Valvetronic variable valve timing system. The S55 engine is renowned for its responsiveness and broad torque curve. The CS variant received a slight power bump over the standard M3, achieving 460 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque between 4,000 and 5,380 rpm. This power is delivered to the rear wheels via a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT), a dual-clutch automated manual gearbox known for its rapid shifts and efficiency. The M DCT features a dedicated oil cooler to manage heat during spirited driving.
Driving Characteristics
The M3 CS 3.0 delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the standard M3. The increased power output, combined with the quick-shifting M DCT, results in exhilarating acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 3.7 seconds. The M DCT’s programming is tuned for both performance and comfort, offering smooth transitions in automatic mode and precise control when shifting manually via the steering wheel-mounted paddles. The suspension is stiffer than the standard M3, providing reduced body roll and improved handling. However, it remains compliant enough for everyday driving. The steering is precise and communicative, offering excellent feedback to the driver.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M3 CS 3.0 came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including adaptive M suspension, M compound brakes, and a lightweight exhaust system. Interior appointments included sport seats upholstered in black Merino leather with contrasting blue stitching. Carbon fiber trim accents were used throughout the cabin, adding to the car’s sporty aesthetic. Standard equipment also included a head-up display, navigation system, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a carbon fiber roof, further reducing weight, and various customization options for interior trim and exterior paint colors.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the M3 CS 3.0 features a lightweight construction, utilizing carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the roof and other components. This helps to reduce overall weight and improve handling. The suspension consists of a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. The brakes are M compound brakes, featuring large ventilated discs and multi-piston calipers, providing exceptional stopping power. The car also features an electronic limited-slip differential, enhancing traction and stability during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The M3 CS 3.0 was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and exclusivity. It was often compared to the M4 Competition Package, with the M3 CS offering a more refined and comfortable driving experience. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers of this vehicle, was respectable for its performance class, averaging around 28.3 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability has generally been good, although the S55 engine is known to require careful maintenance, particularly regarding oil changes and cooling system upkeep.
Legacy
The M3 CS 3.0 remains a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market. Its limited production run and enhanced performance characteristics have made it a collector’s item. The S55 engine, while complex, is generally considered a robust and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. The M3 CS 3.0 represents a sweet spot in the F80 M3 lineup, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. It stands as a testament to BMW’s commitment to creating engaging and rewarding driving experiences.
