Images of the upcoming BMW M3 CS have been leaked online by someone whose Instagram account is called @kero_wolf, with these images shared by @wilcoblok in an Instagram post that has since been deleted. The leak occurred just days after BMW confirmed the new M3 special edition would be revealed at the 24 Hours of Daytona, which must be quite annoying for the German brand. BMW intended to reveal its quickest M3 to date at the first public appearance of the M Hybrid V8 World Endurance Championship hypercar, hoping to reinforce the idea that BMW M road cars are directly influenced by the innovative racers tested on the motorsport stage. But these images have stolen quite a lot of that thunder.

Like the G82 M4 CSL, the M3 CS wears a gaping pair of grilles with far fewer horizontal strakes than you get on a regular M3. This grille is also highlighted in red, with the model-identifying badge offset to one side. Another CSL-like trait is that the recesses in the hood have been accented in black, although a similar look has been available for regular M3s and M4s for some time now. An aggressive front splitter also helps set this special edition apart from regular M3s, while a striking shade that appears to be BMW Individual Signal Green ensures this car stands out everywhere it goes. Hopefully, buyers won't be limited to just three colors, as M4 CSL consignees were.

The front end shows off the same yellow DRLs in the headlights that were first offered on the M5 CS and later made their way to the M4 CSL, not to mention countless aftermarket automotive lighting specialists' websites of late. The rear end shows off a subtle M3 CS badge and an elegant trunk spoiler, but we don't see the tell-tale coloring of a titanium rear silencer that we spotted on some development cars. That could just be down to editing or lighting, however.

Inside, the curved screen indicates iDrive 8 is present, while an Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel with a red center marker adds some extra sportiness. This wheel is garnished with carbon fiber, a material that is found all over the dash, center console, and seats.

Based on appearances alone, the M3 CS looks like it'll be a winner. We'll bring you more info next week when BMW officially reveals its latest toy.