Performance has become quite a byword in the luxury market lately. In keeping with that trend, BMW’s legendary M organization has been upgrading a selection of models to meet intensive high-performance requirements. Following up on the M235i, launched in 2014, BMW elected to give its 2 Series the total “M” treatment for 2016, aiming to complement the existing M3, M4, M5, and M6. In poker-player parlance, they were filling an open-ended straight flush, with inspired M-level performance.
What's New for 2017
Little has changed for the 2017 model year. The Executive Package now includes wireless charging and a wi-fi hotspot with enhanced USB and Bluetooth. An M Driver’s Package is offered at BMW Performance Centers, not as a standalone option.
Choosing Your BMW M2
Starting with the basic M2 coupe, BMW’s M organization installed a striking body kit, including an enhanced front apron with more aggressive air inlets. Accentuating the coupe’s profile are wing extensions, rocker-panel extensions, and 19-inch aluminum wheels. An M spoiler resides out back, above a large rear diffuser and M-type exhaust outlets.
Inside, sport seats are upholstered in Dakota leather with blue contrast stitching and adjustable bolsters. An “M” logo adorns the backrests, while the driver gets an M-type footrest and kneepad, as well as M2-specific instruments and steering wheel.
Beneath the hood, a 3-liter M TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine generates 365 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, and 343 pound-feet of torque—available all the way from 1,400 to 5,560 rpm. When pushing hard on the gas pedal, a temporary overboost function can boost torque output to 369 pound-feet, up to 4750 rpm. That’s 70 more pound-feet than the previous-generation M3 model.
The standard six-speed manual transmission features automatic rev-matching, and sends power to the rear wheels. Acceleration to 60 mph takes just 4.3 seconds. With the optional quick-shifting M Double-Clutch automatic transmission, 0-60 mph time drops to 4.1 seconds.
Fuel economy with automatic is estimated at 20 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on the highway (22 mpg combined). Manual shift drops the city estimate to a rather non-frugal 18 mpg.
Built with a wider track than the regular 2 Series, the M2 uses a lightweight aluminum suspension. M-developed electric power steering aims to provide precise feel. Front brake rotors are 15-inch, gripped by four-piston calipers. M Dynamic Mode is said to counteract both oversteer and understeer. Also included is a variable Active M differential. An automatic start/stop function is standard.
Standard equipment includes power heated front sport seats with lumbar support, Dakota leather upholstery, a multifunction steering wheel, keyless entry, an adjustable front armrest, carbon fiber interior trim, Shadowline exterior trim, auto-dimming inside and driver’s outside mirrors, automatic xenon headlights, rain sensor, universal garage-door opener, and 19-inch black double-spoke alloy wheels. Also standard are adaptive light control, automatic climate control, dynamic cruise control, navigation, satellite radio, Harman/Kardon premium sound, real-time traffic information, and BMW Apps.
An optional Executive Package ($1,400) includes a heated steering wheel, rearview camera, rear park distance control, automatic high beams, active driving assistant, wireless charging and wi-fi hotspot, and speed-limit information. The double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic adds $2,900.
The basic 2 Series has been called the most traditional-type BMW on the market today, and the M2 adds to the coupe's visceral appeal. Priced at $51,700 (plus $995 destination charge), the M2 delivers a bounty of driving satisfaction in a compact package. Unlike most BMW models, the option list is refreshingly short—nearly nonexistent, in fact.