The first-generation BMW M2 F87 has been in production since 2016 and received a facelift in 2019. It's one of BMW's most celebrated and well-received sports cars in a long time, yet BMW hasn't updated the model in the last two years. So, this refreshed and redesigned version is very welcome news. The second-generation BMW M2 borrows a significant number of components from the current-generation M3 and M4, just like the M2 CS before it.
A small M3 with over 400 hp
The "M" badge will continue to adorn the top of the range for the new generation of the BMW 2 Series. The sports coupe, internally designated G87, will be launched in 2022 as a 2023 model. While non-M models are only offered in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, here it's a three-liter inline six-cylinder engine that powers the rear axle! Thus, BMW remains the only rear-wheel-drive alternative to the trio of Audi RS3, Mercedes CLA 45, and BMW M2, much to our driving pleasure.
A BMW M2 producing up to 440 hp?
The previous BMW M2 F87 – BMW's internal code – featured a modified 370 hp N55 engine. The new M2, however, is equipped with a genuine BMW Motorsport engine, codenamed S58. This twin-turbo powertrain is well-known to brand enthusiasts, as it's also found in the BMW M3 and M4 (G20) and is expected to reach 420 hp in the M2 Coupé (around 440 hp for the M2 Competition). Given that its larger siblings can exceed 600 hp with a remap, one can only be excited about the tuning potential of these new M2s!
Their CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform also shows that their lineage lies more with the 3 Series and Z4 than with their transverse-engine, front-wheel-drive cousins on the UKL platform. The S58 will be available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Adaptive Suspension
The new M2 will also be equipped with M adaptive suspension, offering enhanced comfort and performance on the road. Adapting to your driving style for optimal safety and experience, this suspension allows the driver to electronically control the suspension settings for improved damping and reduced body roll (pitch, roll, and dive).
Its operating instructions will almost certainly be identical to other BMW vehicles, where the driver can choose between Road, Sport, and Track modes. The ride is comfortable and smooth in Road mode, as the shock absorbers absorb road imperfections. Furthermore, the shock absorbers will be significantly firmer in Sport or Track mode to provide more direct contact with the road and reduce body roll. It remains to be seen, however, whether Road mode will still be comfortable and whether this new version of the "baby M3" will prove too harsh on rough roads, which would compromise its versatility, as was the case with the Z4M in its day.
Motorsport bucket seats
Drivers looking to recapture the racing feel of the new M2 will be thrilled to opt for the M carbon fiber bucket seats. These seats offer a perfect fit and help reduce weight in the cabin. As with the M3 and M4, these seats will be available in Merino leather in four colors: Black, Silverstone/Black, Kyalami Orange/Black, and Yas Marina Blue/Black.
These seats offer the best support, especially for drivers who take their wheels to the track. The M2 will come standard with M Sport seats, similar to those available on the M240i xDrive. These seats are more comfortable and will be preferable for customers more interested in the car's versatility than its extreme performance.
No large grille on the M2
The prototype, still heavily camouflaged, already reveals the design direction. The classic proportions are retained, with a long hood and a recessed cabin. No large grilles then, but a magnificent double black air intake, a distinctive feature of Motorsport models – we remind you that our double black grilles are available for the entire BMW range in our shop.
It is also likely that the engine will be positioned near the firewall, in the center of the car, to balance the weight. BMW traditions appear to be respected.
Carbon fiber bodywork elements
On the prototype test car, the carbon fiber roof is also revealed, along with the lightweight alloy wheels familiar from the BMW M4 Competition. Behind them lies an upgraded braking system: the BMW Motorsport six-piston system at the front, historically a weak point for the Bavarian brand's models. The M2 also receives aerodynamic exterior mirrors ( available from Euro Racing Parts ), a modified Hofmeister knuckle, and retractable door handles. At the rear, a spoiler is visible on the trunk lid, along with a central exhaust system with dual outlets. A diffuser remains hidden under camouflage.
Optional laser lighting
The new M2 features low-mounted LED headlights, which can also project a laser beam as an option. Inside, the driver of the sports coupe sits in a sport bucket seat, grips a sport steering wheel, views a digital cockpit, and enjoys the various M badges as well as the carbon and aluminum trim.
The new M2, like the road-going versions of the 2 Series, is built at BMW's San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico. Production there is expected to begin in late 2022.
In summary
The new BMW M2 carries on the philosophy of the previous M2 and the now-discontinued 1M Coupé: driving pleasure with a six-cylinder rear-wheel drive, plenty of power in a compact and explosive coupé. The strength of the engine found in the BMW M3 and M4 is beyond question. Following the release of the BMW M4 CSL, one might also wonder about the possibility of a future, lighter and even sharper M2 CSL.
With its rear-wheel drive and available manual gearbox, the 2023 BMW M2 should preserve the driving pleasure delivered by its predecessor.
Although it shares the appearance of the standard BMW 2 Series, this all-new generation is once again designed to deliver maximum performance. As for the rest of the details regarding the two-door coupe? Well, we'll have to wait for BMW to reveal them.
