BMW New M4 CSL
Carscoops’ reader ‘Fox One’ spotted this German-plated BMW M4 prototype testing
on European roads this week and was wondering if it’s a new M4 CSL edition.
A closer examination of the car reveals
that it bears similar styling updates to the regular facelifted 4-Series and M4
testers that have shown up recently, including the redesigned headlights and
–possibly, partially OLED- taillights, but it’s the differences that raise the
question whether it’s a CSL or another special edition of the series.
While this prototype has the same
license plate number as the M4 facelift our spies nabbed earlier this week,
it’s running on different silver wheels (the same kind found on Spain’s M4 CS,
the M3/M4 Competition Package and “30 Jahre M3”), and has a GTS-like vented
hood plus, more importantly, what appears to be a ducktail spoiler incorporated
in the boot and an Alcantara wrapped steering wheel rim.
The original M3 E46 CSL was 110 kg lighter than the regular M3 Coupe with weight savings coming from the
removal of sound insulation along with electric seats and navigation systems,
the optional availability of comfort features like air-conditioning and audio systems
,and the use of lightweight materials such as carbon fiber panels and
glass-reinforced plastics. It also came with a re-tuned chassis and driving
electronics, as well as a 17 hp bump in power.
The presence of the M4 GTS-sourced hood
could point to the use of the same or a similar/de-tuned water injection system
on the 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six that resulted in a 60 hp and 50 Nm boost over the regular M4 at
493 hp at 6,250 rpm and 600 Nm of peak torque between 4,000
and 5,000 rpm respectively.
There’s always the chance that BMW is
trying to mislead us with their on-road prototypes, but given the fact that the
more extreme and track capable M4 GTS has already been sold out, the Germans
could be readying a CSL or a differently named special edition for the
facelifted M4 that’s expected next year.
