BMW introduces retro-inspired 3.0 CSL Homage concept

BMW has traveled to the annual Villa d’Este Concours d’Elegance in Italy to introduce a brand new concept called 3.0 CSL Homage. As its name clearly implies, the show car was designed as a tribute to the 3.0 CSL coupe that tore up race tracks across Europe during the 1970s.
The concept blends modern and retro-styled styling cues to create a striking 21st century interpretation of the CSL. Visually, the design is characterized by a tall kidney grille and slim headlights up front, chromed fender vents, pronounced haunches and a huge rear wing out back. The coupe is finished in a heritage-laced color called Golf Yellow, while period-inspired black stripes add a finishing touch to the retro look.

The 3.0 CSL Homage makes extensive use of carbon fiber in order to keep weight in check. Additionally, every creature comfort deemed superfluous has been tossed out, creating a back-to-the-basics cockpit with state-of-the-art components like a rectangular multi-function steering wheel and a fully digital instrument cluster.

Full technical details are not available, though BMW has all but confirmed the show car is powered by a gasoline-electric hybrid drivetrain built around a straight-six engine. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an automatic transmission controlled by large shift paddles.

Like most of the stunning concepts that BMW introduces at the annual Concours d’Elegance, the 3.0 CSL Homage will remain a one-off design study that will not get the green light for production. However, the current 6 Series is a direct descendant of the CSL so it’s not too far-fetched to imagine the concept’s design could influence the next-gen 6 that is scheduled to debut before the end of the decade.