Currently reading: BMW M6 CSL 'didn't make sense'
CSL version of the M6 was axed because it didn't make sense as a business

A CSL version of the outgoing BMW M6 was fully developed before being axed, the firm has revealed.

The M6 CSL coupe was rejected by the BMW board as it didn't make sense as a business case.

It is now part of BMW M's classic collection, shown in full to journalists today for the first time.

Features included active aerodynamics (focused on the floor), a 100kg weight saving programme, an upgraded power output and a new aero package.

Another car revealed for the first time today is a rear-wheel drive M version of the first-gen X5. This car was never made as BMW decided its X-badged cars had to be all-wheel-drive, something that's no longer the case as its sells rear-drive versions of the X1.

It was powered by a V8 engine mated to an smg gearbox and was "well received" in customer clinics, BMW claims, but was ultimately rejected.

Mark Tisshaw

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