BMW M4 CS Review – All You Need to Know
When you think of BMW’s M division, it’s hard not to imagine cars that blend everyday usability with raw track performance. Over the years, models like the M3 and M4 have set benchmarks for sports coupes. But then comes the BMW M4 CS, a model that doesn’t just settle for being fast – it aims to be the sweet spot between a daily driver and a race-ready monster.
The CS badge, short for Competition Sport, carries weight. BMW doesn’t put those two letters on just any car. Instead, it’s reserved for models that take everything you know about an M car and sharpen it to near perfection. In this review, we’ll walk through what makes the BMW M4 CS special, why it matters in the lineup, and how it fits into your life as both a thrilling ride and a practical investment.
The Legacy of BMW CS Models
Before diving into the details of the 2025 BMW M4 CS, let’s take a step back. BMW has used the CS moniker in the past for cars like the M3 CS and M5 CS, and each time, the formula has been similar: more power, less weight, sharper handling, and limited availability.
Think of it as BMW’s way of saying, “Here’s the car you can still drive to work, but it’ll happily tear up a racetrack on the weekend.” Many enthusiasts recall the M3 CS as one of the most balanced performance cars of its era. That history sets high expectations for the M4 CS, which steps into big shoes.
Powertrain – Heart of the Beast
At the core of the BMW M4 CS lies the S58 inline-six engine – a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged masterpiece. For this version, BMW has turned up the boost slightly, pushing the output to 543 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Numbers like these aren’t just for bragging rights; they translate to a car that can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.2 seconds.
What’s more impressive is how usable this power feels. You don’t need to be on a racetrack to appreciate it. On a simple highway merge, a quick tap on the throttle will pin you back into the M carbon bucket seats, leaving traffic far behind. It’s one of those moments that reminds you this car is equally about excitement as it is about performance.
And here’s something unique: BMW keeps the xDrive all-wheel-drive system standard on the CS, giving you the option to send most of the power to the rear wheels for playful driving. It’s like having two cars in one – a confidence-inspiring all-wheel-drive coupe for wet days and a tail-happy sports car when you’re in the mood for fun.
Exterior Design – Aggression with Purpose
One look at the BMW M4 CS, and you immediately know this isn’t your average M4. From the carbon fiber front lip to the exclusive hood stripes, everything screams purpose. The Frozen Isle of Man Green paint paired with matte gold wheels makes it stand out in any crowd – it’s not just a car, it’s a statement.
Sure, the large kidney grille has sparked plenty of debate, but on the CS, it feels like part of the aggression. Add in carbon fiber aerodynamic elements and the subtle red accents, and you’ve got a coupe that looks as sharp as it drives.
I remember seeing an M4 CS parked outside a café, and even among Ferraris and Porsches, it was the one people gravitated toward. There’s something about the stance – low, wide, and ready to pounce – that makes you stop and admire.
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Interior – A Focused Driving Environment
Step inside, and the M4 CS wastes no time reminding you it’s built for drivers who love the craft. Alcantara trim, carbon fiber panels, and minimalist touches define the cabin. BMW even removed the traditional center console cupholders to shave weight, reminding you that this isn’t a car designed around convenience, but performance.
The carbon bucket seats are surprisingly comfortable once you settle in. Yes, they’re firm, but they grip you in place perfectly, whether you’re cornering hard on a back road or cruising down the highway. Heated seats and a heated steering wheel add a touch of practicality, proving that BMW hasn’t completely abandoned comfort in its quest for speed.
It’s a blend of form and function – everything inside feels like it belongs, and every stitch reflects BMW’s commitment to detail.
Driving Experience – Two Cars in One
The magic of the BMW M4 CS lies in its dual personality. On one hand, it’s brutally fast and sharp, offering precision that makes it feel like a track car. On the other, it can calm down and handle daily errands with grace.
The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission deserves special mention here. Whether you’re cruising in auto mode or using the carbon paddle shifters, it adapts seamlessly. In comfort mode, it’s as smooth as a luxury sedan. Switch to sport mode, and it shifts faster than you can blink, keeping the engine in its power band for maximum thrills.
The suspension, however, reminds you that this is no soft grand tourer. Even in its softest setting, it’s firm. On smooth roads or track surfaces, it feels incredible – responsive, planted, and agile. On rougher city streets, though, you’ll feel every bump. But that’s part of the trade-off when you step into a car that prioritizes precision over plushness.
Handling and Grip – Precision on Every Curve
What truly sets the BMW M4 CS apart is its handling. With Michelin Pilot Cup Sport 2 tires wrapped around lightweight wheels, the grip is nothing short of phenomenal. Whether you’re on winding back roads or a closed circuit, the car feels like it’s glued to the tarmac.
The xDrive system gives you confidence in tricky conditions, but if you’re brave enough, you can switch to rear-wheel drive for a more playful experience. Imagine pulling onto an empty stretch of road, switching settings, and feeling the rear come alive—it’s the kind of grin-inducing moment that makes car lovers fall in love all over again.
Some drivers have mentioned the steering feels a bit numb compared to older BMWs, but it’s quick, accurate, and matches the car’s aggressive nature. Once you adapt, it becomes second nature, especially with the customizable M buttons on the steering wheel that let you save your favorite driving setups.
Braking Power – Confidence at Any Speed
When you’re dealing with a car capable of hitting 190 mph, braking performance becomes just as important as speed. The carbon ceramic brakes available on the BMW M4 CS deliver jaw-dropping stopping power.
Sure, they might squeak a little when cold, but once warmed up, they provide a solid, confidence-inspiring pedal feel. On track days, you’ll appreciate how resistant they are to fade, even after multiple hard laps. And in daily driving, they give you the peace of mind that no matter what, the car will stop exactly when you need it to.
Ride Quality and Comfort – Can It Be a Daily Driver?
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: can you daily drive a BMW M4 CS?
The answer is yes, but with caveats. The suspension is stiff—even in comfort mode—so if you live in an area with rough roads, you’ll feel it. That said, for many enthusiasts, this is a small price to pay for the razor-sharp performance.
On the flip side, the interior comfort is better than you might expect from such a track-oriented machine. The bucket seats, once you get used to them, provide excellent support. The heated steering wheel and seats make cold mornings bearable, and the trunk is surprisingly spacious for a sports coupe. You won’t be hauling furniture in it, but groceries, luggage, and weekend bags? Absolutely.
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Technology and Safety – Modern Tools in a Race Car Suit
BMW hasn’t forgotten about modern drivers. The iDrive 8.5 system in the M4 CS is one of the most intuitive infotainment setups out there. With a curved digital display, customizable widgets, and smooth navigation, it keeps everything within reach.
Safety-wise, the car comes equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and multiple drive mode settings to tailor the experience. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or attacking corners, you always feel like you’re in full control.
Step-by-Step Guide: Is the BMW M4 CS Right for You?
- Understand Your Needs
Ask yourself if you want a car for daily comfort or pure performance. The M4 CS leans heavily toward performance, but it balances enough comfort to be usable. - Test Drive Both Competition and CS Models
Many buyers compare the M4 Competition and M4 CS. Drive both to feel the differences. The CS is sharper, more exclusive, and more rewarding for enthusiasts. - Check Availability
With only 1,700 units worldwide, the BMW M4 CS is limited. Contact local BMW dealerships or trusted exotic car brokers to find availability. - Consider Your Budget
Priced around $124,675 in the U.S., the CS commands a premium. But you’re not just buying horsepower—you’re buying exclusivity, craftsmanship, and a piece of BMW history. - Think Long-Term
Limited models like the CS often hold value better than regular versions. For collectors, this isn’t just a purchase—it’s an investment.
Price and Value – Worth the Premium?
Here’s the big question: is the BMW M4 CS worth the extra money compared to a standard M4 Competition?
At roughly 40% more expensive, it’s not a casual upgrade. But what you’re paying for is exclusivity, a sharper driving experience, and bragging rights. If performance and uniqueness matter to you, the CS justifies its price tag. If you only want speed at the best value, the Competition model might be enough.
Final Thoughts – Why the BMW M4 CS Deserves Your Attention
The BMW M4 CS isn’t just another trim level—it’s a carefully crafted machine designed to thrill. It captures the essence of what makes BMW M cars legendary: precision, performance, and passion.
From the aggressive styling to the raw power of the inline-six, every detail is built with purpose. It’s a car that can make your heart race on a track while still offering enough comfort for a weekend getaway. For those who value driving as more than just transportation, the BMW M4 CS is more than worth considering—it’s the sweet spot of modern M cars.
Owning one means joining an exclusive group of enthusiasts who don’t just drive, but truly connect with their machines. And when you step out of the car and look back at it, you’ll know you made the right choice.
