First Look: 2025 BMW M4 CS - Is This the Ultimate Track Beast?

In a world where sports cars are becoming increasingly loaded with technology, size, and eco-friendly attributes, the term ‘CS’ still sends a thrill down the spines of automotive enthusiasts. Standing for Competition Sport, this badge now adorns the latest addition to the BMW M lineup—the 2025 BMW M4 CS. This model signifies BMW's commitment to creating the ultimate track-ready, yet daily drivable, performance car.

A Nostalgic Journey to Salzburgring

When you get an invitation to test drive the new M4 CS at the legendary Salzburgring circuit, it’s nothing short of an adrenaline rush. Memories of testing the G87 M2 prototypes under rain-soaked conditions in 2022 come flooding back. Set in a picturesque valley, with fans lining the steep sides of the track, Salzburgring is both beautiful and dangerous, offering high-speed bends and technical challenges.

On my arrival, a Riviera Blue G82 M4 CS greeted me with clear skies and ideal temperatures setting the stage for an epic experience. Although most press materials flaunt the Frozen Isle of Man Green, the Riviera Blue was a sight to behold, harmoniously matching with the yellow headlights, bright red taillights, and various red accents.

Shedding Pounds: The Weight Loss Diet

BMW has applied some serious weight-saving measures to the M4 CS. Extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in parts like the front splitter, bonnet, air intakes, mirrors, rear diffuser, and spoiler lip, helps reduce weight. Specifically, the bonnet alone sheds 1.5 kilograms, and the CFRP center console cuts down another 4 kilograms. Lighter wheels add to a total weight reduction of about 35 kilograms compared to the M4 Competition, bringing the curb weight to 1,770 kg (3,902 lbs).

The M4 CS also features a titanium rear silencer in its exhaust system, making it 3.6 kilograms lighter. Engineering tweaks further include upgraded engine mounts from the CSL model, stiffer springs and dampers, and modified software for the differential, steering, and variable damping, all of which enhance the handling and track performance.

Engine Dynamics: 543 Horsepower of Fury

Borrowing its heart from the M3 CS, the M4 CS boasts a 3.0-liter S58 six-cylinder engine that punches out 543 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard xDrive, the car rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. What really sets this engine apart is its aggressive torque delivery, making the M4 CS not only a sprinter but also a beast on the track.

Handling is where the M4 CS truly shines. Equipped with Cup 2 R tires, the grip is simply insane. Even under hard acceleration, the traction control remains unintrusive, allowing for dynamic and exhilarating performance. The cornering capability, enhanced by the negative camber and engineering refinements, inspires confidence lap after lap.

The Thrill of the Track: A Symphony of Speed and Precision

The Salzburgring track, considered one of the ultimate playgrounds for performance cars, serves as the perfect backdrop to test the M4 CS. Starting in Sport Plus Mode, with settings optimized via the M1 button, I felt the incredible grip from the very first lap. The sheer acceleration and razor-sharp turn-ins make it clear that the M4 CS was born for this environment.

One of the highlight features is the long, sweeping right-hand curve treated as a straight, where the M4 CS exhibited impeccable balance, absorbing lateral forces with ease. The braking performance, thanks to the carbon ceramic brakes, was stellar, showing zero signs of fade even after multiple hot laps. The suspension is undeniably on the stiffer side, but this is a deliberate trade-off for track performance.

BMW M4 CS vs. M3 CS: A Comparative Insight

Both models share a lot of DNA, yet they cater to slightly different preferences. The M3 CS offers a touch more practicality with its extra set of doors, but in terms of track performance, both feel remarkably similar to a non-professional driver like myself. Each model stands out in its own right, but they both undeniably live up to the CS badge’s reputation.

One glaring similarity is the impressive Nürburgring lap time of 7 minutes and 22 seconds, situating the M4 CS close to the M4 CSL but with a less aggressive, more controllable nature. This balance makes the M4 CS an appealing option for drivers looking for a track-focused car that won’t bite back.

Investment Worth Every Penny

Priced at $123,500, with an additional $1,175 for destination and handling, the M4 CS is a compelling package, especially when compared to its cousins. While it’s more expensive than the M3 CS sedan by $4,980, it’s significantly cheaper than the M4 CSL by $16,000. New amenities like updated headlights and laser taillights add to its allure. Yes, cupholders might be absent, but the sheer driving pleasure makes up for it in spades.

It’s clear that the 2025 BMW M4 CS is not just another car; it’s an embodiment of BMW’s relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. For those who crave the ultimate driving experience, the M4 CS is a revelation.