It will be the flagship model of the 8 Series.
Update: A BMW spokesperson told Motor1.com that this vehicle is not the M8 CSL and that the company has no plans to make such a variant. This 8 Series Coupe test car was spotted here to test accessories as well as racing parts.
When spy photos of an unusual, partially camouflaged prototype emerged last year, we knew BMW had been developing the M8 CSL. The car was covered in odd rear-window covers and camouflage helped hide the fascias. However, a new set of spy photos shows that the high-performance coupe is on the way to becoming a reality. The camouflage has been almost completely removed, leaving only the odd window coverings.
The M8 CSL will be the 8Series flagship, and it sure looks good. The front features a striking, three-dimensional ovoid grille that is reminiscent of the 2019 Vision M Concept. It sits above a new bumper design and new splitter which will increase downforce at high speeds. The BMW Competition model’s headlights feature yellow diodes. The black-and-white design is enriched by the red brake calipers.
The rear has a huge rear wing that is impossible to hide with camouflage and cladding. Camouflage covers the rear diffuser of the car’s M8 counterpart, but this is the only one that remains. The small side windows still have their louvers, but the rear window retains its blade-like cover. The entire car is sat low on the tires, and the taillights are darkened.
The powertrain’s exact details are still unknown, but BMW’s 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six will likely provide some motivation. Two electric turbos are rumored to be included in the powertrain, which is capable of energy regeneration. Although its output is not known, it will surpass the M8 Competition’s 625 horsepower (466 megawatts). The BMW M8 CSL will launch next spring. This means that an official debut could occur before the end.