BMW has revealed its second-generation M2, and it might just be the most significant version of the subcompact performance coupe. With a seven-year gap between generations of BMW vehicles, it would be nonsensical if Bavaria will introduce the next-generation model without electrifications involved.
That said, you are now looking at the last pure gasoline-powered BMW M2 – the last of its kind.
Powering the new M2 is BMW’s S58 engine that propers the rear wheels. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mill churns out up to 453hp, which is a 48-hp increase over the outgoing model. Torque is rated at 550 Nm. BMW offers the six-speed manual as standard, there’s an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as an option.
In manual version, the M2 can reach to 96 km/h from standstill in just 4.1 seconds. Automatic-equipped models can complete the sprint in 3.9 seconds. The M2’s top speed is limited to 250 km/h but opting for the optional M Driver’s Package increases that 284 km/h. Stopping power comes from six-piston front brakes and single-piston rears finished in Blue metallic with a red finish offered as an option.
Size, wise, the new M2 is larger than its predecessor, specifically 4.1 inches longer, 1.3 inches wider, and 0.3 inches lower. The wheelbase has been stretched by 2.1 inches, as well, making it 4.3 inches shorter than the M4. BMW widened the front and rear tracks, matching the M4’s.
Of course, the BMW M2 features a twin kidney grille that sits above a three-sectioned front apron. The openings upfront provide cooling for various powertrain components and the brakes. The rear end showcases an aggressively styled bumper and a bold diffuser, which houses the coupe’s quad tailpipes. Staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear light-alloy jet black wheels are standard, but BMW will offer the same design in a bi-color finish at no extra cost. BMW makes its Adaptive M Suspension and Active M Differential standard equipment.
The 2023 BMW M2 comes with five exterior colors: Alpine White, Sapphire metallic, Brooklyn Grey metallic, Toronto Red metallic, and new Zandvoort Blue, which is exclusive to this model.
Inside, the M2 comes with BMW M Sport seats with an illuminated M headrest logo. The M Carbon bucket seats is being offered as an option for the first time as part of the Carbon Package, which also includes the M Carbon roof that reduces the car’s weight and lowers its center gravity. The carbon seats are 24 pounds lighter than the standard ones.
BMW’s Curved Display is also making an appearance in he new M2, situating a pair of screens measuring 12.3 and 14.9 inches on the dash. It has M-specific controls, displays, and configurations. The M Setup menu allows drivers to tailor various vehicle systems, such as the chassis, steering, braking, and M Traction Control.
BMW will make the 2023 M2 at its new San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico. It will arrive in the US in April 2023, but we have yet to know whether the Philippines will get its allocation in the same year – if, at all.
We sure do hope so as Bimmer fans know the importance of this model in the lineup. As the last M2 of its kind, this is the last hurrah to a compact, manual BMW that will be fun to drive.