The new BMW M2 is the latest compact sports coupe in a long line of legendary road and racing BMWs, such as the 2002 Turbo, E30 M3 and 1M Coupé. Cast in a similar mould, it brings the concept right up to date with the latest in motor sport derived technology. The result is a powerful performer that delivers genuine driver satisfaction on the road, and extreme capability on the racing circuit.
Powered by a new, specifically developed, 3.0-litre straight-six engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the latest product from BMW M GmbH produces a formidable 370hp, enabling an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. When equipped with the optional seven-speed M DCT gearbox, the M2 can sprint from rest to 62mph in just 4.3 seconds.
This superb level of performance is expressed visually via unique enhancements to the base 2 Series Coupé body, majoring on style but also reflecting the aerodynamic, cooling and chassis requirements of the new car. The BMW M engineers have worked tirelessly to reduce weight wherever possible, improve rigidity and hone the M2’s responses via sophisticated chassis technology and electronics to deliver a truly rewarding drive.
| Model | Price from OTR |
Power Hp |
Torque Nm |
0 – 62mph Seconds | Top Speed Mph | Combined Mpg | CO2Emissions g/km |
| M2 | £44,070 | 370 | 465 +35 overboost |
4.5 (4.3) | 155* | 33.2 (35.8) | 199 (185) |
* All versions electronically limited
Engine: A true BMW M six-cylinder powerplant
The six-cylinder engine of the new BMW M2 is entirely in keeping with the finest BMW M tradition. It offers unbeatable driving fun on a racing circuit, yet remains completely civilised in everyday use. With an appetite for revs not normally associated with a turbocharged engine, it features an exceptionally linear power delivery and strong torque across a broad rev range, all delivered with a distinctive engine sound. Rapid responses and excellent efficiency are amongst the benefits of BMW’s innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology.
The new 3.0-litre engine possesses an output of 370hp at 6,500rpm and will rev to 7,000rpm, while peak torque of 465Nm is on tap between 1,400 and 5,560rpm. An overboost function raises this figure by 35Nm to 500 Nm between 1,450 and 4,750rpm. Despite this potent performance, the combined fuel consumption is 33.2mpg when fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, and 35.8mpg with the optional M DCT. The CO2 emissions are 199g/km and 185g/km respectively.
With M DCT fitted and Launch Control activated, the new BMW M2 completes the sprint from rest to 62mph in just 4.3 seconds (4.5 sec with the six-speed manual gearbox). The top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.
This new, lightweight, thermodynamically optimised, all-aluminium unit is very rigid due to its closed-deck design. BMW’s advanced M TwinPower Turbo technology on the M2 comprises of a TwinScroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, variable camshaft timing (Double-VANOS) and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. The M2’s turbocharger has been integrated into the exhaust manifold, reducing the warm-up phase after a cold start and thereby helping to cut internal friction and significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Components including the pistons were sourced from the BMW M3/M4 engine, as are the crankshaft main bearing shells. In order to ensure oil reaches all engine components at all times under the kind of extreme conditions encountered on a race track, the engine benefits from a modified lubrication system; an additional oil cooler for the transmission oil (on M DCT cars) and a further water cooler for the engine keep temperatures stable.
With its four tailpipes, the M2 is instantly recognisable as a BMW M model and the exhaust’s minimal exhaust back-pressure ensures efficient performance. Added to which, the electrically controlled flap delivers the distinctive BMW M engine soundtrack across the entire rev range without pushing volume levels to their stipulated limits.
Gearbox: Manual gearbox with automatic throttle blipping and MDCT
The new BMW M2 comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, featuring dry-sump lubrication and an engagement speed control function that blips the throttle on downshifts and lowers the engine’s revs on upshifts.
An option is the latest generation of the seven-speed M DCT. With this system the driver can change gear either in automated mode or manually using the M gearshift lever on the centre console or shift paddles on the M leather steering wheel. The Drivelogic function tuned to the M DCT offers a choice of six driving programs (three in automatic mode and three in manual mode). The COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ settings can be activated using the Driving Experience Control switch. The integrated Launch Control function ensures the best possible acceleration off the line in all conditions.
M DCT with Drivelogic offers further specific M functions. For example, Stability Clutch Control (SCC) disengages the clutches when necessary to prevent oversteer and so stabilise the vehicle. The “creep on demand” function allows the driver to prompt the creep effect familiar from conventional automatic transmissions by nudging the accelerator while at a standstill – to manoeuvre out of tight parking spaces, for example. Another integrated feature is the Smokey Burnout function, which allows the driver to indulge in a degree of wheelspin while the car is moving at low speeds.
Chassis: optimised for the road and the racing circuit
For the new M2, the BMW M GmbH engineers have sought inspiration from the lightweight aluminium front and rear axles of the current BMW M3/M4 models. For example, just the control arms, wheel carriers, axle subframes and stiffening plate of the double-joint spring-strut front axle weigh five kilograms less than would be the case with a conventional steel construction. Further stiffening measures optimise rigidity throughout the car.
All the control arms and wheel carriers of the new BMW M2’s five-link rear axle are made from forged aluminium, which reduces the unsprung masses of the wheel-locating components by around three kilograms compared to a steel construction. In addition, a racing-derived rigid connection, dispensing with rubber bushings, is used to fix the lightweight steel grid-type rear axle subframe to the body.
The development of specific tyres for the new BMW M2 was integral to the project from the outset. The lightweight 19-inch forged wheels (front axle: 9J x 19, rear axle 10J x 19) substantially reduce rotating and unsprung masses. Together with the exclusive 19-inch Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres (front axle: 245/35 ZR 19, rear axle: 265/35 ZR 19), they make a considerable contribution to the outstanding dynamic properties of the new BMW M2 and, at the same time, ensure impressive ride comfort.
The high-performance brakes of the new BMW M2 are also a product of motor sport and can be quickly identified by their brake callipers (front axle: four-piston fixed callipers, rear axle: two-piston fixed callipers), which are painted in a blue metallic finish and display the M logo at the front axle. In these M compound brakes, fitted as standard on the new BMW M2, the heavily loaded, perforated and inner-vented brake disc ring is made from grey-cast iron (front axle: 380mm in diameter, rear axle: 370mm in diameter), while the brake disc hub is manufactured from aluminium, thus saving weight.
The electrically power-assisted steering system features an integrated Servotronic function with M-specific characteristics that vary with road speed. Two settings – COMFORT and SPORT/SPORT+ allow drivers to adjust the steering’s power assistance at any time
Meanwhile, an Active M Differential optimises traction and maximises directional stability. This electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential has a locking effect that can be varied between 0 and 100 per cent according to the driving situation. Sensors including those of the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system determine the car’s steering angle, accelerator position, brake pressure, engine torque, wheel speed and yaw rate. The control unit uses this analysis of the driving situation to detect the threat of traction loss on one side of the car and calculates the required locking effect, which is engaged by an electric motor. Full locking power is available within 150ms, and the system can even work proactively. An M Dynamic Mode allows more driver autonomy without removing the DSC altogether.
Design: form through function delivers a powerful presence
Characteristic M design elements define the front end of the new BMW M2, which features the signature BMW kidney grille with its BMW M logo. In fact, the large front apron with trapezoidal blades and the Air Curtains in the outer air intakes take inspiration from the iconic BMW 3.0 CSL touring car racer. Thanks to the careful channelling of the airflow around and through elements of the car, drag has been reduced by five per cent compared with the BMW 2 Series Coupé, despite the M2’s stronger cooling performance. The aerodynamic measures have also reduced lift by 35 per cent and significantly improved aerodynamic balance at higher speeds.
Viewed from the side, the compact dimensions and hallmark BMW proportions with classic BMW Hofmeister kink give the M2 an unmistakable profile. Sculptural wing extensions at the front and rear axle (front: 55mm, rear: 80mm) are not only a stylistic statement, but also necessary to accommodate the wider track and wheels.
The broad rear end of the new BMW M2 highlights its firm grip on the asphalt, a quality further reinforced by the horizontal lines in the boot lid and rear apron, the M rear spoiler on the boot lid, and the rear diffuser integrated into the rear apron.
Interior: the perfect driving environment
Sports seats, in black Dakota leather with blue contrast stitching and an M logo in the backrests, have adjustable side bolsters to give the driver and front passenger optimum support through fast corners. An M footrest and kneepad on the centre console for the driver continue the sporting theme.
Instruments with BMW M2-specific dials and needles, a speedometer scale reaching round to 186mph and a rev counter reading up to 8,000rpm provide an indication of the car’s extraordinary performance potential as soon as you climb aboard. Familiar M equipment items in the new BMW M2 also include M logos on the rev counter, gearshift lever, door sill plates and an M leather steering wheel with shift paddles. The Interior Comfort Package is also included as standard.
Equipment: fully performance capable with high tech options
The new BMW M2 comes with an extensive range of equipment from the factory including the Navigation Professional system, the Professional Media Package and Xenon headlights as standard. Customers can also add further individual touches to their car with a select range of options. The new BMW M2 is available in four exterior paint finishes at no extra cost (Long Beach Blue metallic, Alpine White, Black Sapphire and Mineral Grey).
Innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive are also options. ConnectedDrive Services open up the world of vehicle connectivity to customers, revealing intelligent services and features as well as an extensive range of apps. The GoPro video app is a case in point, likewise the M Laptimer app from BMW M GmbH, which drivers can use to improve their driving style on the track precisely as required. Access to e-mail, weather information and news is possible via the car’s integrated SIM card. Online Entertainment opens up access to more than 22 million music titles and over 200 internet radio channels.
Heritage: The legends of BMW M GmbH
The new BMW M2 sees BMW M GmbH building on the success of the BMW 1 Series M Coupé. It continues the tradition of the legendary original BMW M3 – the E30 from 1986 – a car famed for its blend of agility and precision, as well as its supremacy on the racing circuit and rally stage. Looking further back, the M2 can also be seen as a close descendant of a car from 40 years ago: the BMW 2002 turbo, which was the first mass-produced turbocharged car offered for sale in Germany. With 170hp and a zero to 62mph time of 8.9 seconds, the performance may have been some way off the new M2, but the spirit of driver enjoyment is the same.