2022 BMW M4 CSL spied – UPDATE: See and hear the CSL in a new video
The hallowed CSL badge could return as a track-focused version of the big-grilled G82 M4, spy shots suggests.
UPDATE, 16 April 2021: Only days after photos emerged of the upcoming 2022 BMW M4 CSL, another prototype has been caught on video as it tests at the Nurburgring circuit.
YouTube channel CarSpyMedia filmed BMW's upcoming lightweight M4 as it undergoes final preparations ahead of the vehicle's unveiling in the coming months.
Watch and listen to the new M4 CSL in the video below, and let us know what you think in the comments. The original story continues below.
14 April 2021: Is the new-generation 2021 BMW M4 not fast enough for you? Its German maker could have a solution, with a flagship 2022 BMW M4 CSL recently spied testing for the first time.
The camouflaged prototype snapped by our spy photography partners near BMW's testing centre wears a handful of upgrades over standard M4 models launched locally in recent months, headlined by a new front splitter with winglets, and a longer 'ducktail' rear spoiler.
A side-by-side comparison with the standard M4 reveals the mystery prototype sits lower to the ground, while its carbon-ceramic brakes and optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 track tyres align with its track-focused intentions.
Little else is known about the high-performance flagship M4 model, however rumours suggest it will revive the iconic CSL badge, last seen on the E46 M3 CSL of the mid-2000s, and the 3.0 CSL of the 1970s.
BimmerPost forum member and BMW insider ynguldyn claims production of the M4 CSL could begin as early as July 2022, with a "very short production run" – a timeline that aligns with the level of camouflage fitted to the prototype, solely comprising a vinyl wrap.
While resurrecting a hallowed badge less than two years into the G82-series model's lifecycle might seem odd, the test car's aerodynamic upgrades are too extreme for the mid-tier CS badge (as seen on the outgoing M4), yet are too mild to warrant the return of the GTS moniker.
Under the bonnet, it's likely the current model's 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six petrol engine would be retained, with power and torque outputs almost certain to rise, potentially to around 400kW and 700Nm – though BMW has yet to confirm let alone hint at any figures.
Fulfilling the other half of the hi-po BMW coupe recipe should be a selection of weight-saving measures – though how much lighter a CSL would be versus the regular M4 Competition's 1725kg kerb weight claim is unknown.
Stay tuned to CarAdvice for all the latest on the 2022 BMW M4 CSL.
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