After extensively testing it both on public roads and across the race tracks including the Nurburgring Nordschleife in Germany, BMW has taken the covers off the M2 Coupe. With its compact proportions and driver-focussed nature, this all-new sporty coupe is not only the direct heir to the old 1M Coupe, but also to the original E30 M3 and the 2002 turbo.
Inspired by old BMWs from the brand’s brilliant M division, the M2 Coupe makes no secret of its performance potential. The low front apron with large air intakes, muscular flanks with characteristic M gills, 19-inch aluminium wheels and M-specific twin-tailpipe exhaust system all mean business here.
The M2 is powered by a 3-litre, in-line six-cylinder engine. Thanks to turbocharging, the unit develops 370bhp of power and 465Nm of torque. The latter can be increased to as much as 500Nm in short bursts under the overboost function.
When equipped with the optional 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and with launch control engaged, the M2 can accelerate from 0 -100 kmph in just 4.3 seconds. The 6-speed manual M2, on the other hand, takes 4.5 seconds.
BMW says these lightweight 19-inch forged wheels reduce rotating and unsprung masses. Together with the 19-inch Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, they give impressive road holding ability to the new M2.
As with all BMW M cars, the M2’s interior is unashamedly driver-focused. The car is fitted with a host of M-specific equipment such as the leather sport seats with blue contrast stitching and an M logo in the backrests, adjustable side bolsters and an M footrest and knee pad on the centre console for the driver.
For the M2, BMW has sourced a lot of mechanical bits from other models like the M3 and the M4. For instance, certain suspension components and front and rear axles come from the latter models. Besides these, the car also features an Active M Differential and high-performance brakes.
BMW will start selling the new M2 sometime next year in American and European markets. The car will compete with the likes of Porsche Cayman R and the Ford Mustang GT.
