BMW M5 CS
A limited-edition M5 with more power and more aggressive looks is on the way
Last week when the LCI version of BMW’s M5 bowed, many fan boys turned their noses up in disgust, lamenting the fact that the hot 5er didn’t pack any additional firepower. Once again, the hottest version of the M5, the Competition variant, outputted 460kw and 750nm – making it along with its fellow S63-engined siblings, the most powerful BMW on sale today.
But those in the know were not concerned about the fact that the M5 Competition was endowed with 460kw yet again, because they knew that BMW M has been working on an even hotter version of the M5 for some time now.
We are of course referring to the M5 CS; and it has been pounding away at the Nurburgring for months. It is based on the LCI M5 Competition, and in typical BMW “CS” fashion, this limited edition variant is going to be something truly special – something that is going to stand head-and-shoulders above anything else in its segment.
BMW’s recipe for CS cars is relatively simple. Shed some weight, add more carbon-fibre, add a track tuned suspension and the prerequisite chassis tweaks, some trick aerodynamics, model-specific wheels, CS branding throughout, and most importantly, more power.
According to reports, the M5 CS will indeed pack far more grunt than the M5 Competition. It will use the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 as its sibling, but through a retune, and improved cooling, it is expected to put out a mammoth 478kw and 800nm – up 18kw and 50nm on the already potent M5 Competition. This extra grunt will no doubt see improvements in the M5 Competition’s 0-100kph sprint time and top speed of 3.3 seconds and 305kph respectively.
As before, power will be sent to all four corners via an 8-speed transmission, and paired with an M-tuned xDrive all-wheel-drive system. But now it will get a retuned limited-slip rear differential that will apparently make the M5 CS “more engaging” to drive. Bigger carbon ceramics with perforated rotors are also on the cards.
Much like the recently launched M2 CS, the M5 CS is expected to gain a redesigned front bumper, and a vented hood for improved cooling. Lightweight wheels will also feature, as will smattering’s of carbon-fibre throughout – in the form of a new rear diffuser, a new roof, and a model-specific gurney wing at the bootlid. There is also talk of sports exhaust to give it plenty of bark to match its bite. On the interior front, expect CS badges and trim updates throughout, as well as sport seats. And like CS’ before it, it will likely come in an exterior shade that is unique to the M5 CS.
BMW has yet to confirm the existence of the M5 CS, but rumours suggest that the fiery M5 will debut before the end of 2020.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does the BMW M5 CS cost in South Africa?
The BMW M5 CS was priced at approximately R2,850,000 when it was available in South Africa, making it one of the most expensive sedans BMW has ever sold locally.
Q: How much power does the BMW M5 CS have?
The BMW M5 CS produces a massive 478kW and 800Nm from its twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine, which is 18kW and 50Nm more than the standard M5 Competition.
Q: Is the BMW M5 CS faster than the M5 Competition?
Yes, the M5 CS is faster than the M5 Competition thanks to its extra power, reduced weight, and aerodynamic improvements, though BMW kept the official 0-100kph time conservative for insurance purposes.
Q: How many BMW M5 CS models were made?
BMW produced only 1,000 units of the M5 CS worldwide, making it an extremely rare and collectible performance sedan that's already appreciating in value.
Q: What makes the BMW M5 CS special compared to other M5s?
The M5 CS features more carbon fibre bodywork, track-tuned suspension, unique 20-inch wheels, weight reduction measures, and exclusive CS interior trim that you won't find on any other M5 variant.
Should You Buy It?
The BMW M5 CS is absolutely worth buying if you can find one and have the R2,850,000 to spare, but good luck actually getting your hands on one. This is the ultimate M5, period. With 478kW on tap, stunning carbon fibre aero, and production limited to just 1,000 units worldwide, it's already a future classic that will only appreciate in value. The M5 CS isn't just the best M5 ever made, it's arguably the best super saloon BMW has ever produced. If you're cross-shopping with an Audi RS6 Avant or Mercedes-AMG E63 S, forget about them entirely. The M5 CS plays in a league of its own, combining everyday usability with track-day performance that would embarrass most supercars. Yes, it's expensive, but considering how rare these are and how incredible they are to drive, you'll thank yourself later for pulling the trigger.
