The Fastest BMWs represent the Bavarian Automakers commitment to fulfilling it’s driving philosophy of producing “sheer driving pleasure”. BMW has spent decades crafting and polishing the art of the fast luxury‑performance cars; machines that are synonymous with power, speed and the embodiment of “sheer driving pleasure”. From heavyweight M5 sedans to powerhouse CSL coupes, 5 Fastest BMWs represent the absolute best, in terms of speed, that the Bavarians have to offer.
This Shortlist (listicle in some foreign circles) will rank the 5 BMWs fastest machines in descending order. Some badges dominate this list with their Inline 6 powertrain, while others fight for their spot with a V8 beating heart and executive demeanour. All, however, are Internal Combustion Engines (ICE), that prove the old way is still the best way.
1. 2022 (G82) BMW M4 CSL – 307 km/h
The BMW M4 CSL arrived to the market (circa 2022) as a lightweight, track-focused version of the standard M4. Breathing new life into BMW’s iconic “Coupe Sport Lightweight” badge, the M4 CSL secures its position with a 3.0 Litre, Inline 6 engine that pushes the car to 307km/h. Crafted with a carbon fibre construction and fitted with a bi-turbo power, BMW fastest contender offers a focused driving experience that challenges it’s German rivals i.e. Audi RS5 or the Mercedes AMG GT 63.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L bi-turbo inline‑six (S58) |
| Power | 542 hp |
| Torque | 479 lb‑ft (≈ 650 Nm) |
| 0–60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Top speed | 307 km/h (191 mph) |
2. 2021 (F90) BMW M5 CS
Released in 2021, the BMW M5 CS became the quickest and most powerful production BMW at the time of launch. BMW engineered the CS variant as a lighter, more aggressive evolution of the already potent M5 Competition. By reducing weight through carbon fiber components and increasing power to 627 hp, BMW created a super sedan capable of humiliating exotic sports cars in straight-line performance.
The M5 CS stands out because it successfully blends luxury sedan practicality with hypercar-level acceleration. It features unique gold bronze accents, carbon bucket seats, and track-oriented suspension tuning while still retaining four doors and everyday usability. This combination made it one of the most desirable limited-production BMWs ever made.
Its primary competitor was the Mercedes-AMG E63 S, with the Audi RS7 Sportback also entering the conversation. Compared to the AMG E63 S, the M5 CS feels more precise and controlled at high speeds, while the AMG delivers a louder and more theatrical driving experience. Against the RS7, the BMW offers superior driver engagement and sharper chassis balance.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Horsepower | 627 hp |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | 2.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 190 mph |
3. 2016 (F82) BMW M4 GTS
The BMW M4 GTS arrived in 2016 as a limited-production track-focused performance car designed for serious enthusiasts. It became widely known for introducing innovative water-injection technology, which improved cooling efficiency and boosted engine performance. BMW equipped the GTS with aggressive aerodynamic upgrades, lightweight materials, and race-inspired suspension tuning to maximise track capability. The large rear wing and stripped-back cabin gave the car a far more hardcore personality than the standard M4. Compared with rivals like the Mercedes-AMG C63 Black Series and Audi R8 V10 Plus, the M4 GTS delivered sharper handling and greater driver involvement while remaining more practical for daily road use.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 |
| Power | 368 kW |
| 0–100 km/h | 3.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 305 km/h |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
4. 2016 (F82) BMW M4 DTM Champion Edition
5. 2010 (E92) BMW M3 GTS
Honourable Mention
BMW M8 Coupe Competition
The BMW M8 Competition Coupe launched in 2019 as BMW’s flagship high-performance grand tourer. Combining luxury with massive power, the M8 Competition quickly became one of the fastest accelerating BMWs ever produced. Its twin-turbocharged V8 and xDrive all-wheel-drive system provide exceptional straight-line performance while maintaining comfort for long-distance driving. Unlike the more hardcore M4 CSL, the M8 balances speed with refinement and premium interior quality. Its closest rivals include the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Coupe and Audi RS e-tron GT. Compared with both competitors, the BMW offers a more traditional grand touring experience with strong performance and a distinctive rear-biased driving feel.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Power | 460 kW |
| 0–100 km/h | 3.0 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h E |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
2025 (G87) BMW M2 CS
