BMW M has unveiled a special edition of its high-performance M4 CS, created in collaboration with nine-time motorcycle world champion and current BMW M works driver Valentino Rossi. The BMW M4 CS Edition VR46, produced in a limited run of just 46 units, is a tribute to Rossi’s legendary career and iconic racing number. Manufactured at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the exclusive model is available in two design variants: Sport and Style, both featuring distinct colour schemes and signature elements inspired by the Italian racing legend.
The special edition M4 CS pays homage to Rossi’s illustrious career, with the number 46 prominently displayed on the doors and carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof. Rossi himself played a key role in the design process, ensuring that his signature aesthetic and personal preferences were reflected in both variants.
The Sport version is finished in Marina Bay Blue metallic, contrasted by a large number 46 in Tanzanite Blue metallic on both sides. The Style variant adopts a matte Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic exterior, with the 46 displayed in Frozen Marina Bay Blue metallic. Yellow accents—a signature colour associated with Rossi—are applied to the M kidney grille outline, a single V spoke on the forged M light-alloy wheels, the brake callipers, and an accent stripe over the door frames of the Sport model. The carbon-fibre roof, which is hand-painted, features a large VR46 logo in yellow, along with Rossi’s signature. The tailgate is also adorned with the VR46 lettering.
Inside, the M4 CS Edition VR46 continues the exclusive design theme with a predominantly Night Blue interior. The M Carbon bucket seats are upholstered in Merino leather in a Black/Night Blue combination, while the Alcantara shoulder area features a contrasting Sao Paulo Yellow. The VR46 logo is prominently displayed on the head restraints and door sill trims in the same yellow shade. The M Alcantara steering wheel includes yellow contrast stitching and a yellow centre marker. A plaque on the carbon-fibre centre console designates each unit as “1/46,” signifying its place in the limited production run.
Performance remains at the core of the M4 CS Edition VR46, with a high-revving 3.0-litre, six-cylinder in-line engine delivering 550hp. The power unit, featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology, benefits from an increased turbocharger pressure of 2.1 bar and model-specific engine management tweaks. Paired with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, and an Active M Differential, the special edition accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds, reaching 200km/h in 11.1 seconds. Using the “1-foot rollout” method, these times drop to 3.1 seconds and 10.8 seconds, respectively. The top speed is electronically limited to 302km/h.
To complement the engine’s power delivery, BMW has equipped the model with a stiffened engine mounting system for more direct power transmission. The oil supply and cooling system are designed to withstand high-performance track conditions, ensuring optimal function during extreme lateral acceleration. A dual-branch exhaust system with electronically controlled flaps and a titanium rear silencer contributes to a more emotional and aggressive exhaust note, with four matte black tailpipes completing the look.
BMW M has also fine-tuned the chassis technology specifically for this edition, adjusting axle kinematics, wheel camber settings, dampers, auxiliary springs, and anti-roll bars. These refinements enhance steering precision, lateral force transmission, and overall handling dynamics. The adaptive M suspension, M Servotronic steering with a variable ratio, and an integrated braking system have all been specially calibrated for this model.
Rossi’s association with the number 46 dates back to his early racing years, inspired by his father Graziano Rossi, who also raced with the same number. Throughout his career, Rossi never changed his number, even after winning world titles. His first championship victory came in the 125cc class in 1997, followed by a 250cc title in 1999. In 2000, he moved up to the premier 500cc category, securing his first title in 2001 before continuing his dominance in the newly introduced MotoGP class. Between 2002 and 2005, he claimed four consecutive titles, with two more in 2008 and 2009, making him one of the most successful motorcycle racers in history. His global influence extends beyond the track, with Tavullia, his hometown, even reducing its speed limit to 46 km/h in his honour.
Following his retirement from motorcycle racing at the end of the 2021 season, Rossi shifted his focus to car racing. Since 2023, he has competed as a BMW M works driver, racing in the GT World Challenge Europe and FIA World Endurance Championship, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. In February 2025, he secured a runner-up finish at the Bathurst 12 Hour in a BMW M4 GT3, the opening round of the Intercontinental GT Challenge.
In addition to owning one of the limited-edition M4 CS Edition VR46 models, buyers will receive an exclusive two-day experience in Italy. The package includes a visit to Rossi’s VR46 Motor Ranch in Tavullia, complete with a barbecue and a personal meet-and-greet with the racing icon. The following day, owners will head to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for a BMW M Driving Experience, an opportunity to test the latest BMW M models on the track where Rossi himself has celebrated multiple race victories.
The BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 stands as a testament to Rossi’s enduring legacy in motorsport, blending BMW’s racing DNA with the flair and spirit of one of the sport’s greatest icons.
