The new BMW M5 CS has been revealed ahead of its launch in the spring – with a headline power output of 635hp making it the most powerful M-car ever built.
It’s also likely to be one of the most expensive, with a confirmed UK list price of over £140,000…
It’s actually the first time BMW has launched a CS version of the M5, and the firm hasn’t held back in making it a landmark.
The M5 CS builds on the already-potent M5 Competition with bespoke ‘Goldbronze’ 20-inch alloys and body accents in the same colour.
The bonnet is made from lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), as are the front splitter, rear spoiler and rear diffuser.
Lightweight materials also help the M5 CS weigh in 70kg lighter than the M5 Competition.
Standard BMW Laserlight headlights accent the daytime running lights in yellow when low or high beam is activated – or when the driver unlocks the car.
As well as the gorgeous Frozen Deep Green metallic featured here, the M5 CS is also available in Brands Hatch Grey metallic, and Frozen Brands Hatch Grey metallic (‘frozen’ is BMW-speak for matt-finish).
Four bucket seats
Inside, BMW has fitted a bespoke Alcantara steering wheel, carbon fibre gearshift paddles and a lightweight fixed cover for the centre console – which the firm says gives a “significant weight reduction”.
The front seats are M Carbon chairs and there are, uniquely, two individual bucket-style seats in the rear as well. All are trimmed in Merino leather with Mugello Red contrast detailing.
The head restraints on all four seats have an outline of the Nurburgring racetrack.
The 635hp 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 is 10hp more powerful than the M5 Competition – and 0-62mph in just 3.0 seconds makes it 0.3 seconds faster than the car it’s based on.
Top speed is electronically capped… to 189mph.
Sensibly, M Carbon ceramic brakes are standard – pick from red calipers as standard or gold as an option – and the M5 CS is also 7mm lower than the M5 Competition, and fitted with dampers from the M8 Gran Coupe.
Various other parts of the suspension have been retuned and grippy Pirelli P Zero Corsa track tyres are standard.
BMW has confirmed the starting price of the new M5 CS will be £140,780, with deliveries beginning in the spring.
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