The BMW M3 CS has carved a niche for itself as a high-performance machine that blends track prowess with everyday usability. For owners seeking a singular vehicle to fulfill multiple roles, the M3 CS presents a compelling option. One owner, featured on BIMMERPOST.com, shares their comprehensive experience after putting 8,900 miles on their M3 CS, including a significant 500 miles on the track. This real-world review offers valuable insights into the ownership experience of the 2024 Bmw M3 Cs, highlighting its strengths and suitability as both a daily driver and a track weapon.
Ownership Experience: A Versatile Performer
Living with the M3 CS daily has proven to be remarkably easy and enjoyable across all seasons. This owner uses their M3 CS for a wide array of activities, from mundane grocery runs and passenger hauling to business engagements and exhilarating track days. The car seamlessly adapts to each scenario, underlining its multi-purpose nature. Crucially, the owner reports no mechanical issues, rattles, or unwelcome cabin noises after significant mileage, indicating robust build quality and reliability. Even navigating congested traffic is made easier with the car’s integrated technology, further enhancing its daily driving credentials.
The M3 CS adeptly balances comfort and aggression. It remains docile and comfortable when cruising, yet instantly transforms into a performance monster when unleashed. Despite some reviewers suggesting otherwise, the owner found the steering and brakes to be highly communicative, providing ample feedback on the car’s dynamics. While acknowledging a learning curve of a few autocross and track days to fully interpret the car’s signals, the driver now feels deeply connected and in tune with the M3 CS after extensive driving.
Practicality and Compromises: Living with the CS
The compromises inherent in the CS model, designed to enhance its track focus, are deemed perfectly acceptable by this owner. The absence of traditional cup holders is easily addressed with alternative solutions like a Yeti tumbler placed in the door cup holder. Similarly, the lack of an armrest hasn’t posed an issue, even on longer drives exceeding two hours. In essence, the M3 CS owner hasn’t encountered a situation where they wished for a different vehicle, reinforcing its all-encompassing appeal.
However, the M3 CS’s striking aesthetics do attract attention, perhaps more than the owner initially anticipated, even with a stealthy black paint finish. Despite this visual magnetism, which some might find desirable, it hasn’t led to unwanted interactions with law enforcement, even without a front license plate. The black sapphire metallic paint, while stunning when clean, does require more frequent washing and detailing to maintain its pristine appearance – a task the owner has grown to enjoy as part of the ownership experience.
Cost of Ownership and Maintenance: Transparency and Track Readiness
Over 15 months of ownership, the total cost, excluding fuel and car payments, amounted to $9,940. This figure encompasses all maintenance, parts, labor, insurance, and track/autocross fees, providing a comprehensive picture of the financial aspects of running an M3 CS.
In terms of consumables and maintenance, proactive steps were taken to ensure optimal performance and longevity, especially considering track use. This included three engine oil changes, a rear differential oil change during the break-in service, and the use of Pagid RSL29 track brake pads (with a return to the original pads for daily driving). Notably, two front tires were consumed, replaced with lightly used units, reflecting the demands of performance driving and track days.
The owner also documented the wear on the front brake pads, showcasing the difference between the track-focused Pagid RSL29 pads and the original equipment pads.
Despite careful driving, minor damage to a replaceable part of the front spoiler occurred, highlighting the vulnerability of lower front splitters in performance cars. Additionally, a small dent to the front radiator was noted, though it didn’t necessitate immediate repair.
Final Verdict: A Long-Term Keeper
The 2024 BMW M3 CS is definitively not a luxury cruiser, and that’s precisely its appeal. It’s engineered to be taut and responsive, striking an ideal balance between track-focused rigidity and acceptable road comfort. The suspension tuning, with its well-judged shocks and springs, minimizes body roll while maintaining road compliance. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires are praised for their excellent road grip in both dry and wet conditions and are deemed suitable for track use, although they can overheat under sustained track loads. For autocross events, they are considered near-perfect.
The owner unequivocally expresses their driving enjoyment every time behind the wheel, with passengers consistently comfortable and satisfied. A memorable road trip with a passenger, described as a “little helper,” through diverse terrains, underscored the M3 CS’s capabilities as a comfortable and engaging long-distance companion.
Looking ahead, planned winter maintenance includes replacing the damaged front spoiler piece, fitting track tires, installing a new set of RSL29 brake pads, rebuilding the calipers, performing a new alignment, and completing engine and transmission oil changes – all indicative of proactive maintenance for continued high performance.
In conclusion, the owner expresses complete satisfaction, stating no further desires or needs from a vehicle, perhaps only for a slightly lower profile in terms of attention. The 2024 BMW M3 CS is hailed as a “perfect vehicle,” a worthwhile investment, and a definite long-term keeper, with the owner extending wishes for others to enjoy their M3 CS experience even more.
