Choosing an M from BMW means that you want the ultimate sport in your ultimate driving machine. Now the M2 Coupe returns with a fresh look and more power.
A power boost from the previous M2 means you now have 453hp to play with. The engine is a stunner. It sounds good and the response is quick with little-to-no turbo lag. Something that helps the M2 Coupe stand out is the manual transmission with slick shift and an easy-to-modulate clutch. However, an automatic transmission is a no-cost option. The M2 handles better than the previous version thanks to the adaptive suspension and sport differential that give this little BMW high cornering limits. This is a serious driver’s car, and the optional Carbon package makes it lighter. That package also includes a unique one-day high-performance driving class at a BMW performance center.
This BMW M2 Coupe wows with a sporty and aggressive look. Some people might find the style a little much or not as handsome as before. I prefer it over the current M3/M4 because of the smaller grills. The hood has bulge and the flared fenders with large 19/20-inch wheels give this little BMW big sports car vibes. The Carbon fiber roof looks cool against the bright red paint and lowers the weight a bit. The BMW emblem looks different as a tribute to the 50th anniversary of the BMW M.
Trying to gracefully crawl in the M carbon seats with the aggressive bolsters can be tough. However, they will keep you in place on the track. The BMW M2 Coupe has leather and carbon fiber trim, and it looks as racy as the exterior. This M2 Coupe has a more modern cockpit with virtual gauges and a large, 14-inch touch screen. Don’t expect big space in the rear seats. They are best for small children or for extra storage.
Cost: $62,200; as tested $75,995
MPG: 16 MPG city, 26 MPG highway — I managed 18.4 mpg in 276 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: Active cruise control with braking function; dynamic stability control; active driving assistant pro with active blind spot detection; head-up display; Adaptive full LED lighting; extended traffic jam assistant; drive recorder; front & rear head protection system
Options: $650 Toronto Red Metallic; $300 Shadowline package; $9,900 Carbon Package; $650 Lighting package; $200 BMW M 50-year emblems; $1,100 Live cockpit pro with HUD; $995 destination charge
Things to know: The BMW M2 Coupe thrills with power and handling and it is the least costly way to join the M club.
Pros:
- High style and no odd, large grills like the M3 and M4
- Handles like a race car
- Power to spare with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine
Cons:
- Small size of M2 means this is really a two-seater with back seats better used for storage
- Rides firm when compared to normal less sporty car
