You know how it goes with a modern M car: the standard one arrives, then a couple of years after that comes a Competition, after which follows a CS as the very best (and most expensive) version it can be. See the current M2 and M5 as evidence. However, it seems that all convention is being abandoned for the current M4; not only was it launched as a Competition (the non-Comp won't be offered in the UK), but it also looks like BMW is preparing a CS variant already.
The previous M4 CS was an absolute gem - albeit an expensive one - and, given how well the G82 has been received, hopes will be high that any replacement justifies its legacy. The tell-tale signs are here already: see the jutting front splitter, an M3 CSL-style swept bootlid, gold calipers denoting ceramic brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, where the standard car is on a Pilot Sport 4S. Through the gaps in the camo, paint that looks an awful lot like the San Marino Blue offered on the old CS can be seen. And are those exhausts perhaps a fraction bigger than standard? Even if not, this is clearly a more potent M4.
As for the timing, perhaps this more focused M4 - be it a CS, CSL or GTS - could be seen as an immediate riposte to those who have claimed the Competition is rather podgy for this level of M car. We've seen significant weight saving measures in M3s and M4s in the past, such as carbon seats in the E90 CRT, no rear seats at all in the F82 GTS and, of course, the very strict measures employed by the E46 CSL. So there's no reason at all why similar methods couldn't be utilised here; that the M4 already does a decent job of disguising its weight augurs well for a lighter version.
Obviously there's no official confirmation from BMW yet of an M3 or M4 model above the Competition, which is no great surprise. That said, according to sources familiar with the project and known to our spy snapper, the will be badged a CSL and is set to debut next year - certainly one way to steal the thunder of a 650hp, four-cylinder C63. The perfect car, too, to duke it out with the Alfa Giulia GTA for super-saloon supremacy. We'll keep you posted.
Image credit | S.Baldauf/S.B.Medien
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