BMW has launched a jaw-dropping new M2 with more power and performance than the original.
And with boxy styling to rival BMW M cars from the 1980s, the new M2 has got ‘cult classic’ written all over it.
The first M2, launched in 2016, was a sales sensation for BMW. The German manufacturer sold 60,000 of them worldwide as the M2 became the largest-selling car in the entire M line-up.
Since 2016 we’ve seen a few different versions of the M2, including the M2 Competition and the track-honed M2 CS.
But this fresh M2 is something else entirely, coming with a design overhaul and more cutting-edge tech than before.
The second-gen M2, which will launch properly in May next year, is powered by a 3.0 litre twin-turbo, straight-six engine producing 460hp - 90hp more than the original BMW M2.
It’s rear-wheel drive, and it’s also available with a six-speed manual gearbox as well as an eight-speed Steptronic auto.
And not only does the M2 ‘encapsulate the pure joy of driving’, according to BMW, it also ‘embodies an unadulterated racing passion that owners can enjoy day in, day out’.
Performance wise, the new M2 is potent indeed, packing more punch even than the aforementioned M2 CS.
There’s peak torque of 550Nm, a 0-62mph time of 4.1 seconds - with the auto transmission - and it’ll motor up to a top speed of 155 mph. If you tick the ‘M Race Track Package‘ option, the electronically limited top speed is raised to 177mph.
There’s lots of manufacturing wizardry under the bonnet, including a rigid crankcase, forged crankshaft, friction-optimised cylinder bores, and a 3D printed cylinder head core to save weight.
There’s an M-specific cooling system to make sure you don’t over-cook on the track, a shouty M exhaust, M Traction Control, and M suspension, all fitted as standard.
The M2 should be utterly sure-footed, too.
A BMW spokesperson explains:
“Another contributor to the assured dynamics of the BMW M2 is its standard Active M Differential. It can halt rotational speed compensation between the rear wheels whenever required and generate a locking effect of up to 100 per cent. The Active M Differential is linked with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system to adapt its locking effect precisely to the driving situation.”
When it comes to the design of the M2, it’s 16mm wider, 11mm lower, and 114mm longer than its predecessor.
Those changes don’t just give the M2 more agility, it’s also now more practical, with extra legroom in both rows of seats.
The new BMW kidney grille and the rectangular contours of the lower air intake might divide opinion, but we love them at first glance.
Meanwhile you also get a carbon fibre roof as standard, too, which will appeal.
Inside the cabin you’ll find a curved infotainment touchscreen, three-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system. You can also expect a full suite of the driver aids and safety systems, including lane departure warning and a rear view camera.
A rival to the Mercedes-AMG C 63 and the Audi RS3 hatchback, the BMW M2 will be priced from £61,495.
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