A year ago, we ran a report indicating that BMW might consider building an M4 lightweight. Now it seems this could be the case, as this test mule, dressed in light camouflage and different coloured wheels, have been caught lapping the ‘Ring.
Bets are currently on the production version being called the BMW M4 GTS. Having said that, BMW might consider to bring back the iconic E46 M3 name, and call it the M4 CSL.
Whatever the name would be, we can be assured that it will be a much more focused road car, and suitable for track use. As was the case with E92 M3 GTS (which unfortunately was never sold in South Africa), the M4 GTS will be a significantly lighter.
The interior will feature the bare minimum, with bucket seats, no rear seats, a roll cage and a lot of carbon-fibre and Alcantara trimmings.
With the naturally-aspirated E92 M3 GTS, power and torque was increased by enlarging the engine capacity from 4,0- to 4,4-litres.
This time around, we expect it will be a little simpler, as BMW could get sufficient results by turning up the boost, remapping the engine, and strengthening the engine where needed. We would also not rule out a fruiter exhaust system, which will add a few kilowatts as well.
The outside of the car will also be easily recognisable as the GTS model. From this test mule we can already gather that the front will feature a revised bumper with a low-mounted splitter, while the rear of the car looks standard, except for the fixed rear wing. There is also a good chance that the car will be offered with stickier tyres to cope with the added performance, both in straight line and around corners.
We would expect the BMW M4 GTS/CSL to be officially revealed some time next year, with deliveries starting no later than 2016.
Video source: cvdzijden
