2023 BMW M4 CSL Review

When BMW wants to boost the performance prowess of a particular model to the next level, the Motorsport (M) division gets the call. To commemorate Motorsport's 50th birthday, BMW M has introduced the hardcore limited-edition 2023 M4 CSL.

Limited to just 1,000 vehicles worldwide, the M4 CSL is about performance. Extreme modifications have been made to this vehicle to benefit speed and handling. BMW claims that there has never been a production model closer to its related M race car than the M4 CSL. With extensive carbon-fiber bodywork, bold racetrack-inspired design, and removal of the rear seats, it's easy to forget this car starts as a 4 Series. All of these performance mods will cost you, though, as the M4 CSL starts at $140,895.

Do not mistake the CSL for the M4 Competition model. The all-new M4 CSL is a leaner, meaner, souped-up race car version that's track-ready but street-legal. 

The CSL's many enhancements start underhood. Like the M4 and M4 Competition, the M4 CSL is driven by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. It produces 543 horsepower — an increase of 40 hp compared to the Competition — though torque remains the same at 479 lb-ft. That power is routed through the rear wheels via an M-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW quotes the M4 CSL's 0-60 mph time at 3.6 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 191 mph.

Taking a faster lap around Nurburgring's legendary Nordschleife than any other production BMW, the 2023 M4 CSL rightfully earns its place above all the other M siblings in the lineup.