The CSL name, which stands for Coupe Sport Lightweight, has been used only once before in BMW’s history. The original 3.0 CSL, produced from 1971 to 1975, was a homologation special designed for racing. It featured lightweight construction, a distinctive aerodynamic package, and a tuned engine. It was one of the most successful race cars of its era, and it established the CSL as a symbol of BMW’s commitment to performance.
The M4 CSL revives this legacy. Introduced in 2022 as a limited edition variant of the M4 Competition, the CSL is the lightest and most powerful road-going M4 ever built. It features a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged inline-six producing 543 horsepower, a weight reduction of approximately 100 kilograms compared to the M4 Competition, and a chassis tuned for track performance. Only 1,000 units were built.
This article provides a comprehensive examination of the BMW M4 CSL, including its development, weight reduction measures, performance, design, and why it represents BMW’s return to extreme lightweight performance.
The CSL Legacy: From the 3.0 CSL to the M4 CSL
The original 3.0 CSL was developed to homologate the E9 coupe for European touring car racing. The car’s nickname, “Batmobile,” came from its distinctive aerodynamic package, which included a large rear wing, front spoiler, and fender flares. The 3.0 CSL won the European Touring Car Championship six times, and it remains one of the most iconic BMWs ever built.
After the 3.0 CSL, BMW did not use the CSL name on another production car for nearly 50 years. There were CSL-inspired models, such as the E46 M3 CSL, which featured carbon fiber components and a weight reduction of 110 kilograms. But the E46 M3 CSL did not carry the CSL name in all markets.
The M4 CSL is the first production BMW to carry the CSL name since the 3.0 CSL. It is a car that honors the original while embracing modern technology.
The M4 CSL’s Place in the M4 Lineup
The M4 CSL sits above the M4 Competition in BMW’s M4 lineup. It is more extreme than the Competition, with a more powerful engine, reduced weight, and a chassis tuned for track performance. It is not as extreme as the M4 GT4 race car, but it is the closest a road-legal M4 has come to a track car.
The CSL is a limited edition model. Only 1,000 units were built, and all were sold before production began.
Weight Reduction: The Core of the CSL
Weight Target
The M4 CSL weighs approximately 1,625 kilograms (3,582 pounds), which is 100 kilograms (220 pounds) lighter than the M4 Competition. This weight reduction was achieved through a combination of measures: the use of carbon fiber for the hood, roof, and trunk; the deletion of rear seats; the use of lightweight bucket seats; the reduction of sound deadening; and the use of lightweight brakes and wheels.
Carbon Fiber Components
The M4 CSL features a carbon fiber hood, roof, and trunk. These components are significantly lighter than the steel panels used on the standard M4. The carbon fiber roof also lowers the center of gravity, improving handling.
The car also features carbon fiber bucket seats, which are lighter than the standard M4’s power seats. The seats are fixed in position, with the manual adjustment.
Sound Deadening
The M4 CSL has less sound deadening than the standard M4. The carpet is thinner, the insulation is reduced, and the door panels are lighter. The result is a cabin that is louder than a standard M4, with more engine noise, road noise, and wind noise.
Rear Seats
The M4 CSL does not have rear seats. The area where rear seats would be is covered by a lightweight storage shelf. This deletion saves weight and emphasizes the car’s two-seat focus.
Lightweight Battery and Brakes
The M4 CSL features a lightweight lithium-ion battery, which is lighter than the standard lead-acid battery. The car also features carbon ceramic brakes, which reduce unsprung weight and improve fade resistance.
Powertrain: The Heart of the CSL
Engine Specifications
The M4 CSL is powered by a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, designated the S58. This engine is a development of the unit that powers the M4 Competition, with modifications that increase power to 543 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque from 2,750 to 5,950 rpm. The redline is 7,200 rpm.
The power increase was achieved through increased boost pressure and revised engine calibration. The engine also features a unique exhaust system, with a more aggressive sound.
Transmission
The M4 CSL is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The transmission is a torque converter unit, not a dual-clutch, but it has been tuned for rapid shifts. The shift times are approximately 100 milliseconds in the most aggressive mode.
The transmission does not offer a manual option. The CSL is available exclusively with the automatic.
Performance
The M4 CSL accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.6 seconds. The 0 to 124 miles per hour sprint takes approximately 10.5 seconds. The quarter mile is completed in approximately 11.5 seconds at 125 miles per hour. Top speed is 191 miles per hour.
Nürburgring Lap Time
The M4 CSL set a lap time of 7 minutes 15.677 seconds at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. This is approximately 10 seconds faster than the M4 Competition and competitive with dedicated track cars.
Chassis and Dynamics
Suspension
The M4 CSL features a double-joint spring strut front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. The suspension is revised compared to the M4 Competition, with stiffer springs, revised damper calibration, and a lower ride height.
The car features adaptive dampers that can adjust their characteristics based on driving mode. The system is tuned for track use, with a firm ride and excellent body control.
Steering
The electric power steering is calibrated for the CSL’s performance focus. The system provides appropriate weighting and feedback, with a level of communication that is good for an electric system. The steering ratio is quick, requiring minimal input to change direction.
Brakes
The braking system uses carbon ceramic discs with six-piston calipers at the front and single-piston calipers at the rear. The system provides strong stopping power, with consistent pedal feel and resistance to fade during track use.
Wheels and Tires
The M4 CSL rides on 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch rear wheels, wrapped in specially developed tires. The front tires are 275/35 ZR19, and the rear tires are 285/30 ZR20. The tires are designed for maximum grip on track.
Aerodynamics
Downforce and Drag
The M4 CSL features a revised aerodynamic package compared to the M4 Competition. The front splitter is larger and more aggressive, and the car has a prominent rear spoiler that is integrated into the trunk.
The car also features a rear diffuser that is larger than the standard M4’s. The underbody is flat, with aero panels that improve airflow.
The aerodynamic package generates downforce, improving high-speed stability and cornering grip.
Design
Exterior Styling
The M4 CSL’s exterior design is more aggressive than the standard M4’s. The front end features a larger grille with a unique mesh pattern, a more prominent splitter, and additional air intakes. The hood has a central vent that extracts hot air from the engine bay.
The side profile shows the lightweight wheels, the carbon fiber roof, and the unique side skirts. The rear end is characterized by the prominent rear spoiler, the larger diffuser, and the quad exhaust outlets.
The CSL is available in a range of colors, including the exclusive Frozen Brooklyn Gray that is unique to the model. The car also features red accents on the grille and side skirts.
Interior Design
The interior of the M4 CSL is focused on the driver. The seats are carbon fiber bucket seats with Alcantara upholstery, providing lateral support during cornering. The seats are fixed in position, with manual adjustment.
The dashboard features a digital instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch display, configurable to show performance data. The central infotainment screen measures 14.9 inches, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The interior is stripped back compared to the standard M4. There are no rear seats, no sound deadening, and fewer luxury features. The focus is entirely on driving.
Driving Experience
On Road Character
The M4 CSL is a car that is best appreciated on a track, but it can be driven on public roads. The suspension is firm, transmitting road imperfections to the cabin. The ride is not comfortable, but it is not punishing.
The engine responds immediately to throttle inputs, with power building strongly from low rpm. The transmission shifts quickly in automatic mode, and the paddle shifters provide control for manual shifts.
The cabin is loud, with engine noise, road noise, and tire noise competing for attention. The car is not relaxing, but it is engaging.
On Track Behavior
When driven on a track, the M4 CSL reveals the depth of its engineering. The brakes provide consistent stopping power lap after lap, with a pedal feel that inspires confidence. The chassis remains composed through corners, with the suspension controlling body motion effectively.
The car’s rear-wheel-drive layout and power require skill to manage. The CSL rewards smooth inputs and early throttle application on corner exit.
The Sound
The inline-six engine’s sound is one of the CSL’s defining characteristics. The engine produces a sharp, metallic wail as the revs climb toward the 7,200 rpm redline. The sound is not as dramatic as a V8’s, but it is distinctive and engaging.
Rarity and Exclusivity
Production Numbers
BMW built 1,000 units of the M4 CSL. All units were sold before production began.
Pricing
The M4 CSL carried a base price of approximately $140,000. This pricing placed it above the M4 Competition and below the M4 GT4.
Collector Status
The CSL is one of the most sought-after modern BMWs. Its limited production numbers, its status as the first CSL since the 3.0 CSL, and its focus on lightweight performance have made it a prized collector car.
How the M4 CSL Stacks Up Against Rivals
Against the BMW M4 Competition
The M4 Competition is the standard version of the M4, with 503 horsepower and a weight of approximately 1,725 kilograms.
The Competition’s advantage is its comfort and its daily usability. The standard car is more refined, with a quieter cabin and a more compliant suspension.
The CSL’s advantage is its performance and its focus. The CSL is faster, more agile, and more engaging to drive than the Competition.
Against the Porsche 911 Carrera S
The Porsche 911 Carrera S is a rear-engine sports car with 443 horsepower and a weight of approximately 1,500 kilograms.
The 911’s advantage is its handling and its refinement. The Porsche’s rear-engine layout provides exceptional agility, and its interior is more luxurious.
The CSL’s advantage is its power and its value. The BMW produces 100 more horsepower than the Porsche, and its price is lower.
Against the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance
The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance is a four-door coupe with a 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid producing 805 horsepower.
The AMG’s advantage is its power and its luxury. The Mercedes produces 262 more horsepower than the CSL, and its interior is more opulent.
The CSL’s advantage is its weight and its track focus. The BMW is lighter and more agile than the Mercedes.
Against the Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing
The Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing is a rear-wheel-drive sedan with a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 producing 668 horsepower and a six-speed manual transmission.
The Blackwing’s advantage is its power and its manual transmission. The Cadillac produces 125 more horsepower than the CSL, and the manual gearbox is a rarity.
The CSL’s advantage is its weight and its track performance. The BMW is lighter and faster around a track than the Cadillac.
Specifications Summary
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six |
| Horsepower | 543 hp at 6,250 rpm |
| Torque | 479 lb-ft from 2,750 to 5,950 rpm |
| Redline | 7,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drive | Rear wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | 3.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 191 mph |
| Weight | 1,625 kg |
| Nürburgring Lap Time | 7 minutes 15.677 seconds |
| Production | 1,000 units |
| Base Price | $140,000 |
Conclusion
The BMW M4 CSL represents a return to the lightweight performance that defined the original 3.0 CSL. It is the lightest and most powerful road-going M4 ever built, with a weight reduction of 100 kilograms and a 543 horsepower engine. Its carbon fiber components, its deletion of rear seats, its reduced sound deadening, and its track-focused chassis make it a car that prioritizes performance over comfort.
The M4 CSL is not a car for everyone. Its production is limited to 1,000 units, its price is $140,000, and its focus on track performance means it lacks the comfort and convenience of other BMWs. But for the 1,000 owners who acquired a CSL, the car offers something that no other BMW can provide: the experience of driving a car that honors the CSL legacy.
The M4 CSL also represents BMW’s commitment to performance. At a time when many manufacturers are moving toward electrification and SUVs, BMW built a limited edition, track-focused coupe. It is a car for enthusiasts, a car that celebrates the joy of driving.
The BMW M4 CSL is lightweight performance reimagined, and it will forever be remembered as one of the most significant M cars of its generation. It is a worthy successor to the 3.0 CSL, and it is a car that will be cherished by its owners for years to come.
