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

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

Looks like: A more track-ready 2 Series

Powertrain: 453-horsepower, twin-turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine; six-speed manual transmission or available eight-speed automatic; rear-wheel drive

Hits dealerships: Early 2023

After redesigning the 2 Series Coupe for 2022, BMW has now turned its attention to the sports car’s high-performance variant, the M2. Redesigned for 2023, the second generation of the brand’s smallest M model gets a more powerful engine, track-oriented technology, a performance-optimized exterior and interior tweaks, and a new eight-speed automatic transmission that can replace the coupe’s standard six-speed manual.

Utilitarian Exterior Elements

The redesigned 2023 M2 has a longer, wider and lower stance than the previous generation, according to the automaker; the two-door, four-seat sports coupe grows 4.1 inches longer, 1.3 inches wider and sits one-third inch lower than the outgoing model. BMW says the M2’s 108.1-inch wheelbase plays a key role in the vehicle’s agility — it grows by 2.1 inches but is still 4.3 inches shorter than its M4 stablemate. The M2’s defining characteristics include a long hood, short overhangs, a far-set passenger compartment, a sloped roofline and pronounced wheel arches.

The M2 stands out from lesser 2 Series variants with unique exterior features that serve a greater purpose beyond pure aesthetics and help with engine cooling and aerodynamics. The coupe’s new frameless grille takes on a horizontal shape, deviating from the larger M3 and M4’s prominent vertical kidneys. Below the grille are three-section rectangular lower air intakes designed to keep the powertrain and brakes cool during spirited bouts of driving. The vehicle’s rear end also lends a hand in the performance department, with a rear spoiler to generate additional downforce, a racing-inspired diffuser insert and the M’s signature quad tailpipes. Other changes include redesigned LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights and turn signals, as well as an optional carbon-fibre roof that reduces the M2’s weight and improves its centre of gravity and handling, says BMW.

Shoppers will be able to choose from five exterior paint colours: Alpine White, Black Sapphire metallic, Brooklyn Grey metallic, Toronto Red metallic and Zandvoort Blue, which is exclusive to the M2. The sports coupe rides on M-specific light-alloy black wheels measuring 19-inches at the front and 20-inches at the rear; a bicolour finish for the wheels will also be available.

More Power, Quicker 0-60 Sprint

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The previous-generation M2’s 405-hp, six-cylinder engine is replaced with a twin-turbo inline-six, which bumps horsepower to 453. According to the automaker, the engine was optimized for power and efficiency thanks to design improvements like a crankshaft drive with high torsional rigidity and a 3D-printed cylinder-head core for further weight reduction.
The 2023 M2 keeps a six-speed manual transmission as standard and offers a new available eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces the outgoing model’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. With the manual, the M2 gets a BMW-estimated 0-60 mph sprint of 4.1 seconds: the automatic drops the time down to 3.9 seconds. An 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 its rear-wheel drive setup, help optimize handling, according to BMW. The sports coupe also features an M-tuned suspension that uses electronically controlled dampers to maximize contact with the road and improve traction.

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

Interior and Tech

By stretching the wheelbase, BMW says it has increased legroom in the M2’s front and rear. The coupe also sees new M sport seats with side bolsters, perforated leather upholstery and an illuminated M logo in the head restraints. An optional Carbon Package swaps the standard seats for heated 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 display that combines a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. Built-in navigation comes standard, while a head-up display is optional.

Standard driver-assist features include a Park Distance Control with front and rear sensors, dynamic cruise control, automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. For models with the automatic transmission, a more advanced Active Cruise Control system with Stop and Go is available.

Falling into the category of “less practical, but more fun” are track-friendly features including the standard M Lap timer that keeps track of your best lap times and an M Drift Analyzer that helps you improve your drifting skills by recording the duration, distance and angle of your most recent attempt.