2023 BMW M4 Review

BMW launched the first 4 Series coupe nearly a decade ago and along with it the first M4. The M4 is essentially a two-door version of the M3 sedan, one of the fastest and most powerful four-doors on the road today. The current M4 uses a screaming twin-turbocharged inline-six engine paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. To help manage that power, the M4 Competition model is available with all-wheel drive, a first for either the M3 or M4. Additionally, the M4 offers a sport-tuned suspension, high-performance brakes, and optional carbon-fiber lightweight seats and carbon-fiber trim.

To commemorate BMW Motorsport's impending 50th birthday, BMW M introduces the hardcore 2023 M4 CSL, which is production-limited to 1,000 vehicles worldwide. The M4 CSL is about performance, and extreme modifications have been made to this vehicle to benefit speed and handling. With extensive carbon-fiber bodywork, bold racetrack-inspired design, and removal of the rear seats, it's easy to forget this 543-horsepower coupe starts its life as a 4 Series. All of these performance mods will cost you, though, as the M4 CSL starts at $140,895.

The M4 has rivals from just about every corner of the world. Some of its closest competitors include the Audi RS 5 and Mercedes-AMG C 63 S coupe, but cars such as the Porsche Cayman and Chevrolet Corvette compare favorably when it comes to price and performance. That's not including any four-door performance cars like BMW's own M3, the C 63 sedan and Cadillac CT5 V-Series Blackwing. Still, few are as quick as the M4. The gap will only widen with the M4 CSL.

The 2023 BMW M4 CSL is a hardcore, street-legal track car that isn't for the masses. Car shoppers should know that despite its BMW badge, this model is not a luxury commuter.