BMW M2 Coupe

The second-generation M2 undergoes a major update

The BMW M2 is the most compact BMW M model in the lineup, carrying on the tradition of the BMW 2002, which was launched in 1973 and became famous for its sporty, beautiful design and outstanding driving performance, and the first-generation BMW M3, which appeared in 1985. Developed by BMW M GmbH, which handles BMW’s high-performance models, the first-generation M2 was launched in 2016, and the current model is the second-generation model that was released in 2022.

The new M2, which has just been introduced in Japan, is fitted with a compact body and a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder twin-turbo engine that combines the sensual revving of a naturally aspirated engine with the overwhelming power of turbo technology. The only rear-wheel drive in its segment, with an ideal 50:50 front-rear weight distribution, delivers agile handling and outstanding road holding.

In addition to the 8-speed automatic transmission (M Steptronic), the Japanese market also offers a 6-speed manual transmission model that allows direct vehicle control. The car comes with a full range of standard equipment, including advanced safety features such as “Driving Assist” for collision avoidance and damage reduction braking, “BMW ConnectedDrive” that utilizes IT networks through an on-board communication module, and “BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant” that uses AI technology to enable vehicle operation through voice conversation.

Racing car-like appearance

While the front section of the M2 is based on the new improved “2 Series Coupe”, it has a more prominent presence thanks to the rectangular air intakes that protrude to the left and right, the design around the headlights, the straight frameless kidney grille with horizontal bars, and the front fenders that have been widened horizontally. It has been brushed up beyond the facelift.

The side section retains the 2 Series Coupe’s flowing side design and occupancy, but by enlarging the front and rear bumpers in particular, it expresses powerful driving performance. The side spoilers have been enlarged and are the same color as the body, giving the car a sense of stability. The combination of a low center of gravity and large diameter wheels has created a powerful appearance like a racing car.

The rear section incorporates LED technology and features compact, smoked taillights, a thick trunk shape with a kicked-up rear end, the four-exhaust pipes traditional to M high-performance models, and a three-dimensional rear diffuser, giving it a simple yet glamorous presence.

By using aluminum extensively in each component that makes up the drivetrain, including the body, weight has been reduced and maneuverability has been significantly improved. In addition, the addition of a strut brace in the engine bay and reinforcement of the front and rear axles has strengthened the body, improving driving performance on the circuit. In anticipation of circuit driving, large-diameter brake discs with excellent heat and fade resistance and lightweight 6-pot M compound brakes are also standard equipment.

Introducing a 6-speed manual transmission that allows for flexible gear changes

The new BMW M2 Coupe, now available in Japan, comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. — In addition to the 8-speed M Steptronic automatic with Drivelogic, a model with a 6-speed manual transmission is also available, allowing for flexible shifting.

The car is equipped with the highly efficient 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder BMW M TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine found in the BMW M3 and M4, which now produces 480 PS (353 kW), a 20 PS increase in maximum power, and 600 Nm of maximum torque (MT: 550 Nm).

The engine’s response is optimized by minimizing pressure loss and reducing fluid resistance. It is luxuriously equipped with many technologies cultivated on the circuit, such as intake ducts that achieve high efficiency, forged pistons that optimize weight to deliver maximum and stable power up to high revolutions, and twin turbochargers that deliver optimized boost pressure for quick and dynamic response and high torque even at low revolutions.

The car is fitted with an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission with Drivelogic, which is suitable for all situations, from circuit driving to comfortable city driving. A 6-speed manual transmission is also available, allowing the driver to shift gears at will.

The interior uses common components with the M3 and M4.

The interior of the new BMW M2 Coupe, which has now been introduced in Japan. — The racing-inspired cockpit is lavishly equipped with components found in the higher-end M3 and M4 models.

The interior shares many of the same components as the higher-end M3 and M4 models, including the iDrive Controller, the touch-enabled and highly visible BMW Curved Display, M Sport seats that provide firm support for all occupants, and illuminated M2 logos built into the front seats.

The front seats are available as an option with the “M Carbon Bucket Seats” that are suitable for circuit driving. The M Carbon Bucket Seats provide strong support against lateral G-forces and are compatible with multi-point seat belts, achieving a weight reduction of approximately 10 kg for the two front seats. Another feature of the M2 is that despite its compact body size, the rear seats can accommodate two adults.

The car comes standard with “M Drive,” which allows for two different settings to suit the driver’s preferences. By storing the driver’s preferred settings for the engine, suspension, steering, brakes, etc. in the “M1/M2” buttons on the steering wheel, the driver can instantly recall the desired settings.