BMW’s M division has set out to push the M5 super-saloon to new heights, but does the latest CS model live up to the expectations?
The ‘CS’ badge has long been associated with BMW’s high-performance vehicles, originally signifying either Competition Sport or Club Sport, depending on the era and model. While this might suggest a stripped-down, track-focused racer, the M5 CS takes a different approach.
In recent years, BMW’s Motorsport division has used the CS designation for a range of high-performance M models, enhancing their capabilities beyond the standard versions. Now, this exclusive moniker has been applied to the M5, creating the most powerful road-going M car in BMW’s history: the BMW M5 CS, priced at £140,780.
Performance and Engineering Excellence
At its core, the M5 CS builds upon the foundation of the M5 Competition, refining its mechanical package to deliver an even more exhilarating driving experience. Rather than transforming the car into an uncompromising track machine, BMW has ensured that it remains a high-performance road car, retaining the everyday usability that has long defined the M5.
The company’s strategy of using later-production special editions to fully unleash the potential of its M cars has become something of a tradition. In fact, during a 2018 road test of the F90-generation M5, BMW’s own track record suggested that the ultimate version was yet to come. That prediction has now materialised in the form of the M5 CS.
What Sets the M5 CS Apart?
Pros:
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More aggressive performance and a significantly improved exhaust note
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Upgraded suspension and axle geometry enhance handling
Cons:
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High price tag reflecting its exclusivity
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Limited availability, with UK allocations already sold out
The M5 CS distinguishes itself with extensive use of exposed carbon fibre and a striking new finish known as ‘gold bronze.’ The car features satin-bronze kidney grilles and wheels, along with carbon-fibre accents on the bonnet, front bumper air vents, front splitter, rear spoiler, rear diffuser, and side mirror covers.
Beyond aesthetics, BMW has focused on weight reduction as a key engineering goal. A carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) bonnet, lightweight 20-inch forged wheels, standard carbon-ceramic brakes, and a series of interior refinements contribute to an overall weight saving of approximately 70kg compared to the standard M5 Competition.
A New Benchmark for the M5
By combining increased power with carefully honed dynamics, the M5 CS establishes itself as the most capable iteration of BMW’s iconic super-saloon. It may not be a full-fledged track car, but for those seeking the pinnacle of the M5 experience, it offers a compelling mix of performance, exclusivity, and road-going usability.
With its limited production run and premium pricing, the M5 CS remains a rare and sought-after addition to BMW’s M portfolio. Those lucky enough to secure one will own a piece of BMW’s high-performance legacy—one that pushes the boundaries of what a four-door saloon can achieve.
