Following several high-profile photo leaks, BMW has unveiled its new M2 sports coupe in full; simultaneously confirming it for launch in Australia.
Priced from $119,900 plus on-road costs, the M2 is set to arrive in local showrooms in the first half of next year.
The new-look M2 goes down a less restrained styling path compared to the first-generation model, incorporating chunky proportions and generously sized flared arches, lifting some elements from the M240i along the way.
It’s roughly 50mm wider and 104mm longer than the outgoing model, tipping the scales at 1730kg.
Under the bonnet is what’s likely to be one of the last pure internal combustion powertrains BMW will ever release, in the form of a traditional 3.0-litre TwinPower S58 inline six turbo.
Producing 343kW of power and 550Nm of torque, it’s capable of accelerating to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds on its way to a limited top speed of 249km/h in some markets. Markets where the M Driver’s Package is available can remove the limiter, boosting top speed to 283km/h.
Purists will appreciate that the M2 continues to be available with a 6-speed manual transmission. It can also be had with an 8-speed automatic. The auto is a touch quicker off the mark, with manual models two tenths slower to 100km/h.
BMW has put a good chunk of effort into making the M2’s driving experience highly customisable. Drivers are able to adjust transmission, steering, suspension, traction, and braking behaviours on the fly.
This is particularly relevant for those who want to take their M2s onto a racetrack, which it seems BMW believes is likely to represent a large portion of customers.
The German marque has included numerous handy track day toys for those wanting to unleash their M2’s full potential. All models get M Drive Professional, which includes the Drift Analyser software from the M3 and M4 and 10-position M Traction Control.
Inside, the M2 gets either standard sport bucket seats or M Carbon seats, with the latter trimming weight off the overall package while still retaining creature comforts like heating and electric adjustment.
The cabin is punctuated by a 12.3-inch touchscreen and 14.9-inch curved display; each married to BMW’s iDrive 8 software.
