Performance focussed BMW M2 races into SA

The second generation of the BMW M2 continues the brand’s tradition of sporty models with compact dimensions, first showcased in 1973 with the introduction of the BMW 2002 turbo. The new BMW M2 encapsulates the pure joy of driving with its compact dimensions, six-cylinder in-line engine, manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive.

Form follows function

The athletic appearance of the new BMW M2 stems from its compact dimensions, extremely powerful proportions and hallmark M design features.

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 design has been crafted around technical requirements in terms of cooling air supply and aerodynamic balance. 

Clearly designed surfaces, prominently flared side skirts and muscular wheel arches set the tone for the side view. The rear end features a number of unique features including an eye-catching spoiler lip on the boot lid, vertically arranged reflectors, a rear apron diffuser insert and two pairs of exhaust pipes positioned a long way in from the outer edges.

Under the bonnet

The straight-six engine developed for the compact high-performance model with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving design differs only slightly from the engine employed in BMW M3 and M4 models. Developing a maximum output of 338kW and 550Nm, the pulsating build-up of power to the 7 200rpm rev range is accompanied by an emotionally rich soundtrack generated by the M-specific exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps.

Engine power is transferred to the rear wheels via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard. The transmission can be operated by means of a selector lever sporting the latest M design as well as shift paddles on the steering wheel. A six-speed manual gearbox is available as an option for anyone seeking a performance experience in the classical mould.

The BMW M2 can complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 4,1 seconds when fitted with the M Steptronic transmission or 4,3 seconds when utilising the six-speed manual gearbox. The limited top-speed can be raised from 250km/h to 285km/h by specifying the optional M Driver’s Package.

Regardless of the choice of transmission, the new BMW M2’s traditional form of dynamic performance is characterised by its rear-wheel-drive layout. The linear build-up of lateral acceleration forces characteristic of M models helps the driver to guide the car through corners with controlled drifts, when necessary. The standard M Traction Control function is also designed to allow the driver to carefully probe the vehicle’s performance limits by customising individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation, with a choice of ten stages.

The standard Active M Differential on the rear axle is able to seamlessly generate a locking effect of up to 100 percent whenever required, optimising traction on road surfaces by offering different levels of adhesion for the left and right wheel and also improving power transfer when accelerating hard out of corners.

The BMW M2’s compact dimensions, short wheelbase and almost perfectly balanced 50:50 weight distribution and sophisticated chassis technology combine to deliver precisely controllable, fingertip handling. The car’s agility, dynamism and precision also gain from the excellent torsional stiffness of the body structure and chassis mountings helped by bespoke bracing.

Find out more about BMW M-Series cars here.

Inside story

The BMW M2 boasts a cockpit with a driver-centric design featuring M-specific readouts, controls and setup options, as well as the advanced BMW Curved Display. Driving information including Shift Lights appears in a new graphical layout on the 12.3-inch information display. M-specific widgets for vehicle setup and tyre condition are just two of the items that can be called up in the 14.9-inch control display. The optional BMW Head-Up Display also features M-specific readouts.

The driver and front passenger are welcomed by standard 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. M Carbon bucket seats are also available as options and utilise carbon fibre-reinforced plastic in structural elements of the seat cushion and backrest along with cut outs that result in a 10.8 kilogram weight saving.

A setup button on the centre console provides direct access to the settings options for the engine, chassis, steering, braking system and M Traction Control, as well as the Gear Shift Assistant if fitted.

In addition to M Traction Control, the standard-fit M Drive Professional also includes the M Drift Analyser and M Lap timer.

The M Race Track Package, available as an option, comprises the M Driver’s Package together with the M Carbon roof, M Carbon bucket seats, interior trim strips with a carbon fibre finish and track tyres.

The BMW M2 is now available from Sovereign BMW dealerships.

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