The second-generation BMW M2 has arrived. The coupe is distinguished from the rest of the 2 Series lineup by new styling, but that's only half of the story. This coupe wears the prestigious M logo to let everyone know it comes with a powerful engine.

The new BMW M2 continues the brand's tradition of ultra-sporty models with compact dimensions that began in 1973 with the arrival of the BMW 2002 turbo. It is also building on the success of its predecessor, which notched up nearly 60,000 sales worldwide.

The version of the straight-six engine developed for the compact high-performance model with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving design stands out with its M-typical performance characteristics. The M2 features a 3.0-liter engine that produces 338 kW/460 hp, just like the engine in the BMW M3 and BMW M 4 models. That's more powerful than the previous model by 66 kW/90 horsepower.

Peak torque of 550 Nm (405 lb-ft) is produced between 2,650 and 5,870 rpm with maximum output arriving at 6,250 rpm. The new engine revs to a maximum 7,200 rpm. The build-up of power is accompanied by soundtrack generated by the M-specific exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps. The system of oil supply is designed to handle extremely dynamic driving situations when out on the track, as is the cooling system.

The engine's power is relayed to the rear wheels via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard. A six-speed manual gearbox is available as an option for anyone seeking a performance experience in the classical mould.

The new BMW M2 completes the sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 4.1 seconds with the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and in 4.3 seconds when fitted with the six-speed manual gearbox. It is capable of powering from 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 13.5 seconds (automatic) or 14.3 seconds (manual). The limited top speed of the new BMW M2 can be raised from 250 km/h (155 mph) to 285 km/h (177 mph) by specifying the optional M Driver's Package.

The large, frameless BMW kidney grille with its horizontal bars combines with a three-section lower air intake with almost rectangular contours to give the front end of the car a familiar M look. The rear end of the new BMW M2 also has a powerful feel and adds a number of individual touches in the form of the eye-catching spoiler lip on the boot lid, the vertically arranged reflectors, the rear apron's diffuser insert and the two pairs of exhaust tailpipes positioned a long way in from the outer edges.

The choice of five exterior paint finishes available for the new BMW M2 includes the Zandvoort Blue solid and Toronto Red metallic shades exclusive to this model. An M Carbon roof that reduces vehicle weight by around six kilograms is offered as an option.

The new BMW M2 boasts a cockpit with a driver-centric design featuring M-specific readouts, controls and setup options. The driver and front passenger are welcomed as standard by sport seats in a model-specific design with Sensatec/Alcantara surfaces. M Sport seats with integral head restraints and perforated surfaces in Vernasca leather/Sensatec are available as an alternative. The M Carbon bucket seats that can also be found on the options list use carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the structural elements of the seat cushion and backrest and also feature cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints, thereby shaving around 10.8 kilograms off the vehicle's weight.

The global launch of the new BMW M2 will get underway in April 2023. It will be built alongside the new BMW 2 Series Coupé at the BMW Group's San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico. In the United States, pricing will start at an MSRP of $62,200 plus $995 destination and handling.

Source: BMW

Tags: BMW coupe
Евгений Ушаков
Evgenii Ushakov
15 years driving