Australian car enthusiasts rejoice, as BMW rolls out the red carpet for the 2023 M3 CS, an upgraded version of their flagship sedan, right before its world premiere at the 24 Hours of Daytona. This more powerful, lighter and stiffer iteration offers a reworked chassis and a carbon-fibre diet, leaving its siblings in its dust.

The M3 CS is no stranger to power upgrades, showcasing a finely-tuned inline-six and featuring an extensive carbon-fibre ensemble. It mirrors the DNA of the BMW M4 CSL launched last year, albeit with a touch of practicality offered by its all-wheel drive and enhanced interior comfort. Availability in Australia is limited and commences in the second half of 2023, with pricing starting at $249,900 before on-road costs.

A modified M TwinPower Turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine brings 30kW of added power compared to the M3 Competition, boasting 405kW over a broader range, while maintaining peak torque at 650Nm. However, in the CS variant, this torque lasts longer, extending nearly to 6000rpm. Performance figures put 0-100km/h at a brisk 3.4 seconds, with 0-200km/h achievable in 11.1 seconds. The top speed is electronically capped at 302km/h.

The additional power surge comes from raising the maximum charge pressure of the two single-scroll turbochargers from 1.7 to 2.1 bar and implementing model-specific engine tweaks. The engine also sports restructured mounts with higher spring rates, establishing a firmer connection.

The remastered engine inherits features from BMW’s M4 GT3 DTM touring car, such as a sleeve-free closed-deck crankcase, lighter cylinder bores, 3D-printed cylinder head core, and race-specific oil supply and cooling systems. BMW claims the Sport or Sport+ modes on the dual-branch exhaust system enhance the drive sound, giving a noticeable racing car tone.

BMW's high-performance division ensures power meets the road efficiently via an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission, complete with carbon-fibre paddle shifters. Enhanced drivability is achieved through the M xDrive variable, rear-biased all-wheel drive and a rear Active M Differential. Improved oil supply to the electronically controlled multi-plate clutch guarantees track reliability.

A slew of "model-specific settings" complement the stability control and M Dynamic driving mode, optimised for the exacting demands of high-speed track driving. Updates include adjusted axle kinematics and unique wheel camber, dampers, auxiliary springs, and anti-roll bars.

Additional upgrades are provided to the M3 CS, such as M Compound brakes with optional carbon ceramic versions. Forged M light-alloy wheels featuring an exclusive V-spoke design in either Gold Bronze or Matte Black finish adorn the sedan, measuring 19-inches at the front and 20-inches at the rear.

The weight-reducing efforts of BMW are evident in the carbon-fibre roof, bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler. The car's centre console, the steering wheel's shift paddles, and interior trim strips are also made from carbon-fibre. These weight-saving measures, combined with the M Carbon bucket seats and titanium rear silencer, total a weight reduction of approximately 20kg.

Visually, the M3 CS offers a unique spectacle with choices such as Frozen Solid White metallic paint, Signal Green solid, Brooklyn Grey metallic, and Sapphire Black metallic, plus the exposed carbon-fibre surfaces and black-and-red badges. The standard BMW Laserlight headlights add an extra touch of class to this magnificent machine.

The M3 CS also stands out with a front end inspired by the M4 CSL, complete with red-accented grille inserts, an expanded splitter, and a new bonnet with dual stripes. The laser headlights replicate other BMW M CS and CSL models, featuring yellow running light signatures inspired by GT endurance racing cars. The rear displays an adjusted spoiler and M3 CS badges with red outlines.

Inside the M3 CS, you'll find high-quality black and red Merino leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, M3 CS door sill plates, three-stripe seatbelts, an Alcantara steering wheel with a red centre marker, and a carbon-fibre centre console. This console replaces the centre armrest and storage box with a small armrest and an open storage tray, enhancing weight reduction.

The 12.3-inch instrument display and 14.9-inch iDrive 8 centre touchscreen are standard features in the regular M3, and they also grace the M3 CS. These tech offerings include keyless entry, dual-zone auto climate control, a head-up display, wireless phone charging, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, digital radio, and tyre pressure monitors.

However, the M3 CS doesn't feature lane centring assist, automatic parking, and adaptive cruise control, but autonomous emergency braking is standard. Options for local buyers include carbon-ceramic brakes for $16,500, while different exterior paint colours, wheel designs and tyre compounds are available at no extra cost.

As one of the world’s leading markets for BMW M, Australia anticipates the arrival of the M3 CS in the second half of 2023, following the launches of XM, M3 Touring, and the second-generation M2. BMW Australia prices the M3 CS at $249,900, a significant leap from the M3 Competition xDrive sedan, but considerably more affordable than the M4 CSL coupe.

The 2023 BMW M3 CS, a luxury embodiment of power, is expected in Australian showrooms in the second half of this year, stirring up the anticipation of auto enthusiasts across the country.