Richmond Hill, ON. The second generation of the celebrated BMW M2 excites and delights with all the elements of a classic high-performance sports car, with fresh intensity and cutting-edge technology.
The new BMW M2 encapsulates the sheer joy of driving; compact dimensions, an inline 6-cylinder engine, a manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive, and advanced technology are all central to its appeal. Fleet-footed agility and handling that remains easily controllable even as the driver explores the limits are qualities essential to the emotional experience of new BMW M2.Â
The expressive styling of the new BMW M2 is a clear indication of its mission to deliver sporty driving pleasure, and stems from its powerful proportions within its compact dimensions. At 4580 mm long, 1887 mm wide, and 1403 mm tall, the new M2 is 104 mm longer than its predecessor, 33 mm wider and 7 mm lower.
The 2747 mm wheelbase of the new BMW M2 is a critical factor in its agility. It is 110 mm shorter than that of the BMW M4 but 54 mm longer than the previous M2, benefitting legroom front and rear. Track widths have increased by 38 mm (to 1617) at the front and 4 mm (to 1605) at the rear, matching the M4.
M-specific design
The athletic proportions of the new BMW M2 combine with clean surfaces and sculpted forms that accentuate its wide stance. But the M2 is most obviously differentiated from the BMW 2 Series Coupe by the M-specific design features necessary for cool air intake and routing and aerodynamic balance.
The front of the new BMW M2 is dominated by a wide, frameless BMW twin kidney grille with prominent horizontal elements. The M-typical three-section lower air intakes have almost rectangular contours and optimize cooling of the powertrain components and brakes. The boldly contoured headlight units are positioned to the outer edges of the front fascia. Inspired by the legendary BMW 02 models, they each have a single circular headlight using full-LED technology for both low beam and high beam.Â
Prominently flared side skirts flow into broad, muscular wheel arches to create an appearance characteristic of BMW M and inspired by motorsport. The M2’s silhouette is defined by its long hood, short overhangs, and a passenger compartment set far back. The roofline sloping down from the B-pillar and the short deck lid culminating in a pronounced lip spoiler complete the look of a compact BMW coupe with clear high-performance abilities.
Pronounced horizontal surfaces give the rear end of the new BMW M2 its structure. Classic hallmarks of M design include the vertically arranged reflectors set deep into the outer edges of the rear apron and a rear spoiler lip designed to generate additional downforce at the rear axle. The most striking element of the rear end is the pronounced diffuser insert. This air-directing element adopts a minimalist, racing look and incorporates signature M quad tailpipes.
At introduction, the new BMW M2 will be available in two solid and three metallic exterior paint shades: Alpine White, Black Sapphire metallic, Brooklyn Grey metallic, Toronto Red metallic, and the new Zandvoort Blue available exclusively on the new M2.
The powertrain technology in the new BMW M2 brings elite performance to the premium compact segment and delivers an intoxicating driving experience in the style of a classic high-performance sports car. The M2 is the only model in its segment to be offered with an inline 6-cylinder engine, which impresses not only with its balanced performance characteristics, but also its superior power. The engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a dynamic 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. In either case, the engine’s power is fed through to the road in traditional fashion via the rear wheels.
With 453 hp at 6,250 rpm, the S58 engine in the new M2 outguns the unit in its predecessor by 48 hp. It combines the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology with the high-revving character drivers have come to expect of an M car. The engine’s peak torque of 406 lb-ft is produced between 2,650 and 5,870 rpm.
An extremely rigid crankcase, friction-optimized cylinder bores, a crankshaft drive with high torsional rigidity, and a forged crankshaft with lightweight design enhance the efficiency, power development, and high-revving nature of the engine. The core of the cylinder head is 3D printed, enabling a weight reduction and optimized coolant duct routing.
The M-specific cooling system is fed fresh air through the large apertures in the front apron, and it ensures the powertrain components maintain optimal operating temperatures at all times – both in everyday use over short distances or in urban areas and during high-speed track sessions.
The new BMW M2 is available with a six-speed manual gearbox, creating a performance experience in the classical mold, rooted in the heightened interaction between car and driver. The gear ratios and spread are perfectly matched to the performance characteristics of the engine.
Sophisticated chassis technology originally developed for the M3 an M4 endows the new M2 with the tools required to convert the power of its straight-six engine into sublime straight-line and lateral performance.
The 2023 M2 features newly designed M Sport seats with more pronounced side bolsters. They are upholstered in Vernasca leather with perforated surfaces and can be ordered in either Black or Cognac.
