BMW is doubling down on hardcore versions of the M4.

    BMWBlog reports not only will the current-generation coupe get a lighter, faster M4 CS model, it’ll get the full-on CSL treatment for the first time since the E46.

    The car pictured here is the CSL, which gets an over-the-top aero package and a distinctive take on the M4’s nostrils.

    Where the M4 and M4 Competition have chunky horizontal bars up front, the CSL has slim strakes that barely cover the intercooler hiding behind it.

    There’s a prominent chin spoiler that’s longer, lower, and wider than the front bumper, and new intakes at the base of the bumper. It’s aggressive.

    Down back, the CSL has a distinctive ducktail spoiler that takes inspiration from the E46 M3.

    BMW has covered up the rear window, which suggests there could be a roll cage hiding behind the front seats.

    Alternatively, BMW might have swapped the glass for something lighter – the E46 M3 CSL had slimmer glass than the M3, as part of a gym program that cut almost 100kg from its kerb weight.

    The gold calipers on the brakes of this test car suggest there are carbon ceramic brakes hiding behind those black wheels.

    Inside, expect the CSL to feature fewer fripperies than the M4 Competition.

    The original M3 CSL packed carbon bucket seats, swathes of Alcantara trim, and a lighter centre console than the stock car, but it also hung onto luxuries such as a radio and climate control.

    As for the M4 CS we expect to sit below the CSL?

    Like the previous-generation car, it’s likely to be more track-focused than the Competition, with a slightly more pared-back cabin that doesn’t go quite as far as the CSL.

    MORE: Everything BMW M4

    Scott Collie

    Scott Collie is an automotive journalist based in Melbourne, Australia. Scott studied journalism at RMIT University and, after a lifelong obsession with everything automotive, started covering the car industry shortly afterwards. He has a passion for travel, and is an avid Melbourne Demons supporter.

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