BMW M3 CS at eCoty 2023 – car pictures of the week

The M3 CS is BMW doing what it does best, and arguably better than anyone else. This lightened, hardened supersaloon represents the very essence of M cars, and with a lineage that includes the eCoty-winning M2 CS and M5 CS, the M3 CS has the hallmarks of a true great.

Just how great? We tested the M3 CS against eight of the finest performance cars available at evo Car of the Year 2023, to find out whether it can become the third BMW to take outright victory. To read the full test, pick up your copy of evo issue 317 in-store or online via the evo shop. 

We love the standard G80-generation M3, and with an uprated 542bhp turbocharged straight-six and a host of detail changes to its chassis, the CS is even better. BMW has paid attention to pretty much everything that matters, fitting new springs, roll bars and active dampers while adding an intricate aluminium cross brace at the front and firmer engine mounts. It’s all designed to give the M3 CS more edge, more bite and a more intimate connection with its driver. 

Our first taste of the M3 CS in isolation was enough to secure its place at eCoty 2023 – it drove with a confidence that was missing in the rear-drive M4 CSL, covering ground with remarkable composure. Forget mainstream supersaloons; the CS feels closer to limited-run models like the Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA and Jaguar’s XE SV Project 8.

The trouble is, it’s up against some of the very best bespoke sports cars you can buy at eCoty 2023, including the Alpine A110 R, McLaren’s 750S and the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Can BMW pull off another upset? Pick up your copy of evo 317 in-store or online to find out.