BMW launches M4 CSL

In the year that BMW M celebrates their 50th anniversary they are bringing back one of the brand’s most iconic nameplates in the form of BMW M4 CSL. The CSL promises to blend old school racing passion with innovative technology to create a vehicle that is performance focussed at its core. This has been mainly achieved by a 30kW increase in power and a weight reduction of 100kg compared to the BMW M4 Competition.

With inspiration from the BMW M4 GT3 and a two-seater configuration the M4 CSL puts track driving at its core and authenticated these credentials by setting the fastest lap time for any BMW to date around the Nurburgring Nordschleife.

The BMW M4 CSL is also capable of completing the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.7 seconds and the 0-200km/h sprint in 10.7 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 307km/h.

A lightweight tradition

CSL stands for Competition, Sport, Lightweight and references the major role that the minimising of weight played in the success of this model. 

The weight reduction programme includes M Carbon full bucket seats, rear seat removal, extra-lightweight M Carbon ceramic brakes and special light-alloy wheels, springs and struts. Less sound proofing and lightweight sound insulation saved 15 kilograms while the use of components made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) saved 11 kilograms. A titanium rear silencer saved another four kilograms. The result is a total weight saving of 100kg, which sees the M4 CSL tip the scales at 1 625 kg and record a power to weight ratio of 4.01kg/kW.

As part of the weight saving process CFRP was used on the roof, bonnet and boot lid and the carbon fibre structure of the body components is visible in various areas, such as the two chiselled indents in the bonnet. 

Exclusive exterior touches

The BMW M4CSL is finished in an exclusive Frozen Brooklyn Grey metallic as standard and combines with the exposed carbon fibre and red accents to create an especially sporty look. Alternatively the M4 CSL can be specified in Alpine White or Sapphire Black metallic.

Optional BMW Laserlight headlights illuminate in yellow rather than white, as an ode to the look of successful GT racing cars. The rear lights feature intricate light threads woven into them, which are then illuminated using laser technology, creating a highly distinctive light signature.

CSL worthy power plant

Under the bonnet is the same high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology but it now produces 405kW at 6 250rpm and 650Nm from 2750rpm thanks mostly due to an increase in charge pressure from 1.7 to 2.1 bar. Cooling and oil supply systems have been optimised to handle the challenges of track driving while the twin-tail-pipe exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps generates an emotionally engaging exhaust note.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.

A chassis tuned for the racetrack

Like the engine the chassis has been treated to a number of enhancements to assist with harnessing the additional power and track driving needs. In the engine compartment, strut braces increases rigidity. Individually tuned axle kinematic and model-specific wheel camber settings, dampers, auxiliary springs and anti-roll bars optimise steering precision. Suspension is 8mm lower and the M4 CSL features adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, electromechanical M servotronic steering with variable ratio and M Carbon ceramic brakes.

Standard M Traction Control with model-specific track tuning allows the driver to set individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation.

Racy interior

In addition to the M Carbon full bucket seats the interior features an M Alcantara steering wheel, anthracite-coloured headliner, carbon fibre trim strips, CSL badges on the seats, centre console and rear panel, as well as M-specific displays that create the perfect on-board setting. Merino leather trim with extended features and M seat belts are standard while two helmet storage units can be found in the rear compartment.

Pricing and availability

Production of this special model will be limited to 1 000 examples and local introduction is yet to be confirmed.