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Redesigned 2023 BMW M2: The Smallest M Scores Big HP Boost

adminOctober 13, 2022

0 127 4 minutes read

Redesigned 2023 BMW M2: The Smallest M Scores Big HP Boost

compete with: Audi RS 3, Mercedes-AMG CLA45, Porsche 718 Cayman

Resembles: Series 2 is more track-ready

drivetrain: 453-horsepower, twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine; A six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic is available; rear wheel drive

Hit Agents: early 2023

After redesigning the coupe for 2022, BMW has now turned its attention to the high-performance variant of the sports car, the M2. The second generation of the brand’s youngest M model has been redesigned for 2023, featuring a more powerful engine, racetrack-oriented technology, performance-enhanced exterior and interior tweaks, and a new eight-speed automatic transmission that could replace the standard six-speed coupe.

The redesigned 2023 M2 has a longer, wider and lower stance than the previous generation, according to the automaker; The two-door and four-seat sports coupe grows 4.1 inches long, 1.3 inches wide and a third of an inch smaller than the model. BMW says the M2’s 108.1-inch wheelbase plays a key role in the car’s agility — it grows 2.1 inches but is still 4.3 inches shorter than its stablemate M4. Characteristics of the M2 include a long hood, short overhangs, long-range passenger compartment, sloping roofline and prominent wheel arches.

The M2 stands out from the lower 2 Series variants with unique exterior features that serve a greater purpose beyond pure aesthetics and help with engine cooling and aerodynamics. The new frameless coupe’s grille takes on a horizontal shape, deviating from the larger, prominent vertical kidneys. Below the grille are rectangular, three-section lower air intakes designed to keep the powertrain and brakes cool during frantic shifts. Also helping in the performance department is the rear spoiler, with a rear spoiler to generate extra downforce, a racing-inspired diffuser and distinctive quad exhaust pipes. Other changes include redesigned LED headlights with daytime running lights and turn signals, as well as an optional carbon-fiber roof that reduces the M2’s weight and improves its center of gravity and handling, BMW says.

Shoppers will be able to choose from five exterior paint colors: Alpine White, Sapphire Black Metallic, Brooklyn Gray metallic, Toronto Red metallic and Zandvoort Blue exclusive to the M2. The sports coupe comes on black M light-alloy wheels measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear; Two-tone wheels will also be available.

More power, faster than 0-60 speed

Redesigned 2023 BMW M2: The Smallest M Scores Big HP Boost

The previous generation 405-horsepower, six-cylinder M2 engine was replaced by a six-horsepower inline twin-turbo engine, increasing the engine power to 453 hp. According to the automaker, the engine has been optimized for power and efficiency thanks to design improvements such as a steering crankshaft with high torsional rigidity and a 3D-printed cylinder head core to further reduce weight.

The 2023 M2 keeps a six-speed manual transmission as standard and offers a new eight-speed automatic transmission to replace the previous model’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. With the manual, the M2 gets a BMW 0-60 mph sprint of an estimated 4.1 seconds; Automatic drops the time to 3.9 seconds. The electronically limited top speed ranges from 155 mph to 177 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package.

The M2’s chassis improvements, compact size and weight distribution, along with a rear-wheel drive setup, help improve handling, according to BMW. The sports coupe also features an M-tuned suspension that uses electronically controlled dampers to increase contact with the road and improve traction.

Driver-selectable modes such as Sport and Track control the level of electronic intervention and driver assistance systems depending on the driving scenario, either lowering them (Sport) or completely disabling them (Track).

By extending the wheelbase, BMW says it has increased legroom in the front and rear of the M2. The coupe also sees new M sport seats with side bolsters, perforated leather upholstery and an illuminated M badge in the headrests. The optional carbon package swaps the standard seats for carbon fiber bucket seats, resulting in a 24 pound weight reduction; The package also adds carbon fiber trim throughout the interior.

Technology upgrades for the M2 include the latest version of BMW’s iDrive 8 system and a large horizontal curved screen that combines a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with a 14.9-inch touchscreen. A built-in navigation system comes standard, while a head-up display is optional.

Standard driver assistance features include park distance control with front and rear sensors, dynamic cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. For models equipped with an automatic transmission, a more advanced Active Cruise Control is available with Stop and Go.

Falling into the ‘less practical, but more fun’ category are track-friendly features including a standard M Laptimer that tracks your best lap times and an M Drift Analyzer that helps you improve your drifting skills by logging the duration, distance and angle of your last attempt.

Pricing and release date

Redesigned 2023 BMW M2: The Smallest M Scores Big HP Boost

The BMW M2 2023 is expected to go on sale in the US in early 2023 with a starting price of $63,195 (all destination prices included). That’s a notable premium over the 2023 Series 2 price, which starts at $38,395 for the base 230i Coupe and $49,095 for the high-performance M240i. Meanwhile, the base price of the M2 is lower among its luxury performance rivals: the Audi RS 3 starts at $59,995, the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 Coupe at $56,950 and the Porsche 718 Cayman 2023 starts at $64,850 .

adminOctober 13, 2022

0 127 4 minutes read