Latest Cars
2023 BMW M2 Unveiled With A Manual Gearbox And Lots Of Power
After it has been teased for a long time, BMW has finally taken the lid off its latest M2 and the first thing you’ll notice is that it doesn’t have a big pig snout for a grille like the larger M3 sedan and M4 coupe. BMW’s decision to give the new second-generation M2 a more traditional version of its signature kidney grille might be its way of telling everyone the redesigned coupe remains the purist’s choice.
Like the latest 2-Series coupe on which it is based, the new M2 is an evolution of the model it replaces. It has grown, though. Its wheelbase is 2.1 inches longer, its overall length is up by 4.7 inches, and its track has grown by 1.5 inches up front and 1.6 inches in the rear. Not only does this create impressive proportions, but it should also mean improved surefootedness on the track.
the new M2 arrives with a detuned version of the BMW M4’s S58 3.0-litre straight-six twin-turbocharged engine that produces a respectable 453 hp at 6,250 rpm and 406 lb-ft of torque, which is available between 2,650 and 5,870 rpm. The redline arrives at 7,200 rpm. Power goes to the rear wheels as standard, although the rumour mill suggests that an AWD version will be offered later. It is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and an optional 8-speed unit with a conventional torque converter. BMW claims the new M2 can hit 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with the automatic and 4.1 ticks with the manual.
On the cabin, the M2 will feature newly designed M Sport seats with an illuminated M headrest logo. BMW will offer its M Carbon bucket seats as an option for the first time, part of the Carbon Package, which also includes the M Carbon roof that reduces the car’s weight and lowers its centre gravity. The carbon seats are 24 pounds lighter than the standard ones.
The interior also receives BMW’s Curved Display, putting a pair of screens measuring 12.3 and 14.9 inches on the dash. It’ll have 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, to their liking.
