2025 BMW M4 CS Is A More Sensible CSL, But Does It Hit The Sweet Spot?

This is BMW’s all-new M4 CS, a model designed to sit above the standard M4 and M4 Competition, and below the 2022 limited-edition CSL. The Bavarian carmaker wants to underscore the connection between the M4 CS and an intense, ’emotional’ driving experience, describing the CS as possessing a distinctive character.However, setting character aside, the CS sounds very familiar in many areas. Like the CSL, it features the same 543 hp powerplant found in the M3 CS.

It also incorporates all-wheel drive—just like the CSL—and prioritizes weight reduction. Its appearance even mirrors that of the CSL. So, what really makes it different?More: 2025 BMW i4 And 4 Series Gran Coupe Get Fancy Laserlights But Lose Physical ButtonsJust as they did with the CSL, BMW talks a lot about weight savings and track focus with the M4 CS — but if the CSL became anorexic, the CS has chosen to go on something a little more sustainable, like cutting out those pesky carbs.

The 2025 BMW M4 CS features a carbon roof, hood, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser, and spoiler. It also has light-alloy forged M alloy wheels, which can be equipped with track tires or “ultra-track” tires, both as a no-cost option.However, compared to the CSL, you miss out on the non-adjustable-backrest carbon bucket seats and carbon fiber trunk lid. With the CS, you also get to keep the rear seats and sound insulation.

You do get the M Carbon bucket seats that could be spec’d by CSL owners not interested in inflating the bottom line of their chiropractor.The result is that the BMW M4 CS shaves 45 lbs (20 kg) compared to the M4 Competition Coupe with xDrive, whereas the M4 CSL’s crash diet lost it a whopping 240 lbs (108 kg).Power Bump The BMW M4 CS also gets a modest power bump, with it sharing the same engine output of the M3 CS. And yes, that’s the same as the M4 CSL if anyone is keeping score.Under the hood is the S58 3.0-liter straight-six turbocharged engine with 543 hp (550 PS / 405 kW) and 479 lb-ft (649 Nm). That’s an increase of 20 hp (20 PS / 15 kW) over the 2025 BMW M4 Competition Coupe.