Although a Coupe Sport Lightweight version of the BMW M3 was set to launch in summer 2009 as a 2010 model, BMW has reportedly canceled those plans in order to focus on other projects. The M3 CSL promised to be an even faster and lighter version than BMW’s already potent M3.
Although the reason for the cancelation of the CSL program remains to be fully disclosed, Ludwig Willisch, head of BMW’s M Division told Car Magazine: “Based on current numbers, there is most likely insufficient demand for the M3 CSL.â€
The M3 CSL was slated to lose 100kg and a boost in horsepower to 470.
But with the M3 CSL only slated for a production run of about 100 units, the most likely culprit behind the demise of the program is BMW ’s accounting department. Car speculates that the funds reserved for the CSL project are now being shifted to M versions of BMW’s X-family of SUVs.
While the cancelation of the M3 CSL is a loss for gearheads everywhere, at least the funds are being used on other M vehicles – even if they are SUVs.
