It won’t feature a mid-engine layout.
We reported last week on a series of spy photos that caught our attention. It was a partially camouflaged BMW 8 Series. (gallery below). Although it had some odd features that suggested a mid-engine configuration, new details suggest that it was actually a test mule for the new hybrid powertrain. The Motor.es reports that the mill will be powering the 2022 BMW 8 CSL.
The 8 Series test cars featured louvers on the rear windows and the rear glass was covered. According to the publication, the BMW had a hybrid engine. An inline-six engine paired with an electric powertrain will produce 700 horsepower (521 kilowatts). This is quite a bit higher than the M8 Competition’s 617-hp (490 kW) engine. However, the CSL will be above it in this lineup.
Motor.es says that the extra horsepower will be accompanied by many visible changes. The M8 CSL will get a new front fascia and larger intakes. A new, prominent front lip spoiler will also be added. You’ll also find hood vents and fender vents. A massive spoiler will be placed at the rear, likely to sit above a modified bumper and lower rear diffuser. BMW will put the M8 on strict carbon-fiber diet, inside and outside. It will also remove the rear seats.
According to the publication, the 2022 BMW M8 CSL will not arrive until 2022. It’s not clear if BMW will launch it at that time or when it will go on sale. We’re only two years away, so we’ll probably see many spy photos. We may see an even hotter version emerge, too. Motor.es reported that BMW had plans for four sportsy versions of its 8 Series. The M8 and the M8 Comp will be joined by the M8 CSL. What comes next?