New hardcore BMW M2 CS to join line-up

BMW M’s entry-level M2 coupe is about to get a big upgrade in the form of a hardcore CS model. As with the base M2, the new BMW M2 CS is expected to package the high-end hardware of the M3 and M4 into its more compact body, giving it sizeable uplifts in power, torque and track-honed capability. Its precise reveal date is still to be confirmed, but with the M3 CS still to be rolled out we suspect it’ll be much later this year or early next before the M2 arrives. 

Evident on this prototype are a few bespoke elements not seen on the usual M2, starting with a new lower splitter and bonnet. Working to BMW M’s recent CS trademarks, the bonnet is expected to be made of carbon fibre and feature a more aggressive design integrating some form of engine bay ventilation. The body itself looks to be as per the standard M2, but the boot lid is definitely new as it has a much more pronounced ducktail, not dissimilar to the latest M4 CSL. As with that car, it’s expected to be constructed from carbon. 

The new wheel design is also borrowed from the CSL and latest M3 CS, which on both those cars match the base M2’s 19- and 20-inch staggered diameters, wrapped in ultra-high performance Michelin rubber. While we can’t tell as much from the prototype, we suspect it’ll share a similarly aggressive suspension geometry as its larger cousins, with electronically-adjustable dampers and lowered, stiffened coil springs. 

The turbocharged, 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine will also be carried across, with a likely uplift in power and torque. Specifics are still unknown, but with the base M2 producing 454bhp, the CS should carry a power figure closer to the M3 Competition’s 503bhp, perhaps even eclipsing it. The eight-speed automatic transmission will likely pick up the CS’s more aggressive tuning, so too the rear differential and traction and stability control systems, but a question mark remains over whether the CS will come with a six-speed manual option. As it stands, the manual as found in the base M2 is torque-limited to 550Nm, meaning that a bespoke engine map would be required to suit. 

The interior will also pick up a few bespoke elements that should remove further weight through the use of carbon fibre and reduced sound deadening, however the it’s unlikely the rear seats will be removed – unless BMW M surprises us by going the whole CSL hog as per the M4. 

More information on BMW’s hardcore M2 should be revealed later this year, but for now BMW M’s got its hands busy with the new M3 CS and future facelifted M4, not to mention the forthcoming M5 PHEV. Times are busy for BMW M, but before it turns its hands to widespread electrification, there’s still a few pure combustion superstars to come. 

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