BMW has unveiled the second-generation M2 CS, a limited-run evolution of its compact high-performance coupé at Villa d’Este.
Ever since the epic, muscular-looking BMW 1M Coupe was launched in 2011, the ‘baby M car’ has been a real force to be reckoned with. The lineage continued with the F87 M2 launched in 2016, which was in effect an M3/M4 condensed into a more compact package – which saw a significantly more focused CS version added in 2020. To many, it was considered one of the best BMW M cars ever produced – at least in the modern era.
The latest G87-generation car came along in 2023, and offered a similarly smaller and lighter M3 and M4-based entry point to the M car range. While the standard car was generally well received, the new CS version aims to ramp up the focus and outright performance in order to bring back some more of the magic of its predecessor.
Like previous CS models, the new version gets a noticeable power hike. At its heart is a development of the S58 engine used across BMW’s M range – now producing 523bhp and 479lb ft of torque, eclipsing the regular M2 by 50bhp, matching the output of the current M3 Competition and M4 xDrive. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Unlike the standard M2, there is no manual option. 0-62mph is 0.2sec quicker than standard car at 3.8sec, and top speed is electronically limited to 188mph.
As expected, the performance upgrades are supported by approximately 30kg of weight reduction – although at 1700kg it’s far from a lightweight. Savings have been found thanks to extensive use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) and the forged alloy wheels – 19-inch up front and 20-inch at the rear. Chassis revisions include model-specific tuning for the springs – 8mm lower – dampers, and stability systems, with a recalibrated M Sport differential and adaptive M suspension fitted as standard. Stiffer engine mounts, tweaked power steering and traction control calibration are all intended to improve circuit performance. Carbon-ceramic discs are offered as an option.
Visually, the CS adopts a more aggressive stance, with a sculpted carbon front splitter, ducktail rear spoiler, black grille and diffuser. Four colours are available – Black Sapphire, Brooklyn Grey, Portimao Blue and BMW Individual Velvet Blue. Inside, the M2 CS features carbon-backed Merino leather bucket seats, an Alcantara steering wheel with red centre marker and a minimalist centre console also fashioned from carbon.
Digital enhancements are significant too, as the M Drift Analyser, M Laptimer and ten-stage M Traction Control systems will all be offered for the first time on the M2.
The all important question of price? BMW has confirmed that the limited-run M2 CS will start from £86,800 in the UK, which at around £17k more than a base-spec M2 is a significant rise. If it’s anything like previous CS models, though, it should be able to justify the premium.
