The fastest and most powerful production BMW isn't an exotically styled supercar, a sporty roadster, or a slinky coupe. It's this: the all-new 2022 BMW M5 CS sedan. That hallowed M badge no longer represents a standalone model, but rather, a tier of gradually more brutal high-performance models. This CS sits right on top, above both the M5 and M5 Competition. The numbers are startling, with outputs dialed up to 627 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This luxury limo can reach 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and top out at 190 mph.

As we saw in a teaser last month, the M5 CS wears striking gold wheels, a feature it shares with the smaller M2 CS. But this car is about so much more than the aggressive suit it wears. That S63 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 makes 10 hp more than the M5 Competition, while the torque band is 90 rpm wider, too. Together with the added grunt, the M5 CS has gone on an extensive diet and is 230 pounds lighter than the M5 Competition. The extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) helps in this aspect.

The roof, hood, mirror caps, and rear spoiler are all finished in CFRP, while those 20-inch wheels are forged light-alloy items. BMW also says that there has been a reduction in soundproofing relative to other M5s. Previously, we saw that the M5 CS had seats with a special outline of the Nurburgring Nordschleife visible in the design, hinting at this sedan's track potential. It's not just for show, as the M5 CS receives stiffer engine mounts, a ride height lowered by 0.2 inches, and 10 percent firmer springs. At no cost, sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires can be equipped - the Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta wears the same rubber.

Together with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system that can send all power to the rear axle, the M5 CS should be phenomenal on track. A full-on Track mode switches off driver intervention systems and even turns off the audio system so that the driver can focus on the road ahead. Following the latest 5 Series facelift, the M5 CS builds on this with a unique Gold Bronze finish for the grille surround, while the L-shaped light tubes glow in a race-inspired yellow. BMW's Individual Shadowline trim adds an aggressive flair, while the red calipers are a first for BMW carbon-ceramic brakes.

Brands Hatch grey metallic is the standard color but two Individual colors - Frozen Brands Hatch grey metallic and Frozen Deep Green metallic - are available as options. The cabin is notable from every other BMW sedan in that it seats just four occupants. Those at the back benefit from sporty bucket-style seats with a small storage area separating them. The front lightweight carbon bucket seats also save weight, but they at least retain heating elements and power-adjustability.

The combination of black Merino leather and Mugello red accents looks great, while the driver holds on to an M Alcantara steering wheel. Carbon-fiber shift paddles can be used to operate the eight-speed M automatic transmission.

At $142,000, the M5 CS costs $38,500 more than the base M5. Production begins in March 2021 and US examples will arrive in the second half of this year. The M5 CS will only be produced for the 2022 model year and, for now, seems to have the edge over the Mercedes-AMG E63 S.