Here’s a question looking for an answer; 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 (240 lb) 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 17hp 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 60hp and 50Nm boost over the regular M4 at 493hp (500PS) at 6,250 rpm and 442 lb-ft (600Nm) 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.
Thanks to Fox One for the scoops!
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