BMW M2 global reveal

The all-new BMW M2 was recently unveiled at M-Fest in Johannesburg and promises M performance in a highly concentrated form. With a 338kW six-cylinder in-line engine, an optionally available six-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive, the second generation of the compact high-performance sports car promises unadulterated driving pleasure.

The combination of compact dimensions as well as powertrain and chassis technology adapted from the BMW M3 and M4 are at the core of the vehicle and offers agility and handling that remains easily controllable as the driver explores the car’s limits.

Athletic appearance

Compact yet powerful proportions and hallmark M design features bolster the athletic appearance of the M2. A large, frameless BMW kidney grille combines with a three-section lower intake that has been designed around cooling and aerodynamic requirements to give the car a familiar M look. Clearly designed surfaces, flared side skirts and muscular wheel arches dominate the side profile.

The rear end includes a number of individual touches including a boot spoiler, vertically arranged reflectors, a diffuser insert and two pairs of exhaust tailpipes.

Under the bonnet

The six-cylinder engine developed for the M2 features M TwinPower Turbo technology and a high-revving design that differs only slightly from the engine used in the BMW M3 and M4. The 3.0-litre unit is set to thrill with its urgent response and linear power delivery.

With a maximum power output of 338kW and 550Nm and the ability to rev to 7 200rpm, power delivery is accompanied by an emotionally rich soundtrack generated by the M-specific exhaust system.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard, which offers extremely sporty gearshifts and can be operated via a gearshift lever or shift paddles on the steering wheel. In addition, a six-speed manual gearbox is available as an option for those drivers seeking a performance experience in the most classic form.

The BMW M2 is able to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.1 seconds or 4.3 seconds when fitted with the manual transmission.

The traditional rear-wheel drive layout is accentuated by the standard M Traction Control function, which is designed to allow the driver to explore the limits by setting individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation as well as the Active M Differential.

The BMW M2’s compact dimensions, short wheelbase, 50:50 weight distribution and sophisticated chassis technology all come together to deliver precisely controllable handling. This is bolstered by adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, M Servotronic steering with variable ratio, DSC including M Dynamic Mode and powerful M compound brakes with six-piston, fixed-caliper brakes.

Driver centric cockpit

The BMW M2 boasts a cockpit that features a driver-centric design and M-specific readouts, controls and setup options. Driving related information including a shift light appears in a new graphical layout on the 12.3-inch information display. M-specific widgets for vehicle setup and tyre condition are among the displays that can be projected onto the 14.9-inch control display.

Upfront the M2 is fitted with model specific sport seats that include Sensatec/Alcantara surfaces. M Sport seats with integral head restraints or M Carbon bucket seats are available as an option. Comfort features include three-zone automatic climate control, BMW Live Cockpit Plus as well as a variety of automated driving and parking systems. M Drive professional also includes the M Drift analyser and M Lap timer.

Model range and availability

The all-new M2 will be available in South Africa from the second quarter of 2022.