Shanghai

BMW expands M4 line with 460-hp CS model

Yes, it's coming to the US market.

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BMW's M division rolled out the latest variation of the 4 Series, the new M4 CS, this week at the 2017 Shanghai Motor Show. Slotting between the M4 with the Competition Package and the hardcore M4 GTS, the new CS takes bits from both cars and distills them into a fast but not totally track-focused machine. Even better news, the M4 CS will be making its way to the US. BMW says this new model fills out the lineup and provides a template for future models: base M car, M with Competition Package, M CS, and a range-topping M GTS.

In the M4 CS, BMW's 3.0-liter inline-six gets a 10-horsepower bump over the Competition Package for a total output of 460 horsepower. The engine features two single-scroll turbochargers, a charge air cooler, and both variable valve timing and double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. The only available transmission is BMW's seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission, or M DCT. The M4 CS hits 62 mph in 3.9 seconds, just behind the rated time for the M4 GTS. For those that care, the Nürburgring lap time is 7 minutes and 38 seconds, 10 seconds off the M4 GTS and right on top of cars from Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ferrari.

The suspension on the M4 CS is generally the same as that found on the M4 Competition Package. There is extensive use of aluminum for both rigidity and weight savings. The M4 CS comes standard with BMW's Adaptive M suspension, allowing it to be tuned for both the road and the track. The M4 CS also gets M Dynamic Mode and the Active M Differential, though the tuning has been modified for the CS. A staggered wheel setup - 19x9-inch up front, 20x10-inch out back - is paired with Michelin Sport Cup 2 summer tires, though a less aggressive Michelin compound can be optioned for no extra charge.

The interior and exterior of the M4 CS are a mix of parts from both the Competition package and the GTS. Like with the suspension, there has been a focus on both increasing rigidity and reducing weight. The hood and roof are made from carbon-fiber reinforced plastic while door lightweight door panels are made from compacted natural fibers. Door handles are dropped in favor of pull straps that feature the three M division stripes. The thin, lightweight seats are trimmed with leather and Alcantara. Unlike the GTS, the M4 CS still has a back seat.

The CS gets a few trim pieces that are exclusive to this package. There is an exposed carbon-fiber front splitter up front and Gurney flap out back. The carbon fiber rear diffuser is borrowed from the M4 GTS, as are the new LED tail lights. Overall it's a handsome design that's far more subtle than the big-winged M4 GTS.

Pricing for the US hasn't been announced, but expect it to sit around the $100,000 mark, far less than the $133,205 base price of the M4 GTS. Look for final pricing and US specific details some time in the next few months.

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