BMW's M performance division no longer builds "standard" M cars. For many buyers, models like the M3, M4, and M5 provide the ideal balance between high performance and daily drivers. But the true M enthusiast always wants something more, and the folks at Munich have responded with their CS (Club Sport) models, such as the amazing M2 CS.

And now the 2022 BMW M5 CS sedan has arrived, a lighter, more powerful version of the already impressive F90 generation M5. Like all CS models, the new M5 CS focuses on two major things: additional power and reducing weight. Engineers have managed to accomplish both and then some.

The M5 CS is the German automaker's fastest and most powerful production car ever, and it'll only be sold for the 2022 model year.

Exterior Augmented

At first glance, the M5 CS's exterior may look generally the same as that of the M5, but there are some key changes, all of which were done to reduce weight. Extensive use of carbon fiber components was utilized, specifically the roof, hood vents, front splitter, mirror caps, rear diffuser, and spoiler. Look closely and the carbon fiber's weave is exposed instead of being painted over. Even the engine compartment wasn't left untouched; the cover, which has a full-color M logo and stripes, is also made from that lightweight material. Engineers achieved further weight loss by removing soundproofing components.

Styling-wise, the M5 CS features a unique gold bronze finish on the brand's signature kidney grille, model badging, and even the special 20-inch forged light-alloy wheels. Other notable exterior items include Adaptive LED headlights with L-shaped light tubes that create a racing-inspired yellow illumination instead of the basic white. BMW also tacked on distinctive Shadowline trim to help accentuate that cool yellow lighting. Exterior colors include Brands Hatch grey metallic and two optional colors - Frozen Brands Hatch grey metallic and Frozen Deep Green metallic.

Exclusive Interior Touches

Perhaps the most significant interior change BMW M made is the elimination of the middle rear seat. There's now seating for four with occupants treated to black Merino leather seats with red accents and contrasting red stitching. The front seats, however, are lightweight and adjustable M carbon buckets with additional side bolstering, integrated headrests, and illuminated M5 logos. All four seats have a map of the famed Nurburgring track imprinted on the headrests.

The driver is treated to an M Alcantara steering wheel and carbon fiber paddle shifters. There's additional Alcantara used for the headliner. The console boasts a lightweight leather cover with more red stitching. Designers also made sure to add "CS" logos to numerous locations throughout the cabin, specifically on the instrument panel and between the rear bucket seats. It's even been illuminated on the door sills. The "M5" badge is also present on the velour floor mats.

Power, Performance, And Suspension Tuning

Under the hood lies the S63 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, now delivering 627 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, a 10 hp improvement over the regular M5. The torque band is also 90 rpm wider. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph. Power is directed to the rear-biased M xDrive AWD system through an eight-speed automatic gearbox. A total of 230 pounds have been shaved off from the M5 Competition.

Drivers have three xDrive modes to select from: 4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD. They can even adjust the exhaust system's characteristics and sound. For improved track feel, engineers utilized stiffer engine mounts and additional spring and Dynamic Damper Control tuning due to the reduced weight. A set of Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires are offered at no extra cost.

Three drives modes, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, each offer a unique driving feel according to driver preference, such as track days. The driver uses a Setup button for a specific display menu to program individual powertrain and chassis configurations. Using the M Mode button allows drivers to alter between Road, Sport, and Track settings. Stopping power comes from carbon-ceramic brakes.

Pricing And Competition

The 2022 BMW M5 CS doesn't come cheap. Priced at $142,000, it's nearly $40,000 more than the regular M5. Production will get underway this March and US deliveries will begin in the second half of 2021. The M5 CS is a 2022 model only, though BMW has not specified how many examples are planned. If you want one, it's highly advised to act fast.

Competition amongst super sedans like this is limited to a very small group consisting of the usual suspects. There's the Mercedes-AMG E63 S, Audi RS7, Maserati Ghibli Trofeo, and the upcoming Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. Like the M5 CS, all of these vehicles cost at least $100,000, with the possible exception of the Caddie. Because of its one model-year production status, the 2022 M5 CS could become the most sought-after BMW in years.