BMW M Boss Confirms The Return Of CSL Models

Rumors about a new BMW CSL model have been swirling for years but BMW M boss Frank Van Meel has finally confirmed it is happening.

Speaking with Road&Track, Van Meel said the Coupe Sport Light moniker will replace the GTS name which was recently used on the M4 GTS. The executive added the moniker will be used on models “made on the track for the track” and serve as the company’s “top-of-the-line track tool.”

Beneath the CSL, will sit Coupe Sport (CS) models which are “also a track tool but with four seats” and a greater emphasis on comfort. CS models will continue to be positioned above the usual M and M Competition Pack vehicles.

Van Meel couldn’t be drawn into discussing which vehicles would receive the CSL treatment but he confirmed there will never be an X5 M version. Despite seemingly ruling out crossovers, Van Meel seemed open to CSL sedans and this could eventually pave the way for CSL versions of the M3 and M5.

The CSL designation could return relatively soon on a high-performance version of the M2 Coupe but nothing is official as of yet.

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