BMW has unveiled a limited-run CSL version of the M4 Coupe, boasting more power and less weight.
Limited to 1,000 examples (with only 100 destined for the UK), the M4 CSL is part of the celebrations for 50 years of BMW’s M division.
Compared to the existing M4 Competition, the CSL is an altogether more serious driving machine.
Ready for the racetrack
Beneath the carbon fibre bonnet is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine, boasting 550hp and 479lb ft of torque. This represents a 40hp boost over the M4 Competition – good for a top speed of 190mph.
Unlike the xDrive-equipped M4 Competition coupe, the CSL is solely rear-wheel drive. An eight-speed M Steptronic transmission is standard, using carbon fibre shift paddles.
Lightweight M Carbon ceramic brakes are fitted, with a choice of two different pedal-feel settings on offer.
Upgraded suspension drops the M4 CSL 8mm closer to the ground, with auxiliary helper springs to improve the car’s handling.
Doing more with less
Along with the bonnet, BMW has used carbon fibre for the M4 CSL’s boot lid and roof, plus its rear diffuser and front splitter – with the latter featuring special red detailing.
The boot lid alone saves 6.7kg in weight, and features an integrated spoiler inspired by the 2003 BMW M3 CSL. Laser headlights are fitted, with a yellow hue designed to emulate GT racing cars.
In total, BMW’s carbon fibre diet has pegged the CSL’s kerb weight to 1,625kg, some 100kg lighter than the M4 Competition coupe.
BMW has tested the M4 CSL around the Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit, recording a time of 7min 15.68sec. This makes it the fastest road-going BMW ever to lap the 12.8-mile track.
Strictly a two-seater
Matt effect Frozen Brooklyn Grey paint is exclusive to the CSL, with Alpine White and Sapphire Black available. Heritage BMW badges can be specified, too.
The inside of the M4 CSL is no less hardcore, with a pair of carbon fibre bucket seats. These save 24kg compared to the standard items, with a fixed backrest and seat height that can only be adjusted in a workshop.
Ditching the rear seats has saved a further 21kg, and provides a space to store racing helmets. Carbon fibre is used for the centre console, offering a further 4kg weight saving.
Although built for the track, the CSL still features a 12.3-inch digital dashboard and 10.25-inch multimedia screen. This includes satellite navigation, wireless smartphone charging and a 10-speaker audio system.
M Drift Analyser rates your slides
BMW fits the M4 CSL with an M Drift Analyser, capable of rating sideways action on a scale from one to five. Clearly, the system is only intended for use on a racetrack…
A titanium exhaust can be adjusted from the centre console, with a button to select a quieter mode when needed.
It all makes for a desirable anniversary gift, and one that pays tribute to the original 1973 BMW 3.0 CSL.
Production begins at BMW’s Dingolfing plant in July 2022, with the UK allocation strictly limited to 100 cars. Orders can be placed now, with a substantial price tag of £128,820.
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