We're very much aware that BMW M is preparing another M car for this year. Apart from the M4 CSL, the M3 Touring, the M2, and the upcoming XM flagship SUV, there's another M car that's still in the works. This, however, is something even more special, as this car will be a modern-day interpretation of the BMW 3.0 CSL.
The upcoming M car, whose name is still unconfirmed at this point, has been teased by none other than BMW M CEO, Frank van Meel, via his Instagram account. Based on how it looks, the new M car is clearly a homage to the original 3.0 CSL, which back then was a homologation special to make the car eligible to compete in the European Touring Car Championship.
Frank van Meel also released two additional photos that showcase the modern-day 3.0 CSL, and this is where we can see its M4 roots. The first photo showcases the car's front end, which thankfully bucks the trend of ever-growing kidney grilles as they are of a smaller size compared to the M4's. The grille itself features a mesh pattern, while below it is a restyled front bumper that neatly blends in with the new grille. There are also circular vents, which is also a design trait that's seen in the original 3.0 CSL.
The M4 roots are even more evident at its rear end, especially due to its sloping roofline and greenhouse design. In the case of this 3.0 CSL, the rear fenders are pushed further out, giving the 3.0 CSL a wider stance. The trunk lid has also been redesigned for a cleaner look, and to achieve this, the license plate has been moved down to the rear bumper instead. Lastly, the modern-day 3.0 CSL comes with a roof-mounted spoiler and another bigger wing at the trunk lid, just like the original model.
Since the 3.0 CSL is based on the M4, we won't be surprised if it will come with the same 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six. In its most powerful form, in the case of the M4 CSL, this engine produces 550 horsepower, though a forum post from Bimmerpost suggests that the modern 3.0 CSL may produce 560 horsepower.
There's more good news, though. As you'll see in the rear of the 3.0 CSL, there's a sticker that says "6MT FTW", which pretty much confirms that this will come with a six-speed manual. Whether an eight-speed automatic will also be offered is unconfirmed at this point.
That's all the information that we can confirm for now, though here's one that we're confident about--its price positioning. BMW is reportedly capping production to just 50 units, each priced at somewhere between €600,000 and €700,000 ($635,000 - $740,000). That's the price you pay for exclusivity.