BMW M2 History

 

 

 

The BMW M2 is one of BMW M’s most celebrated modern cars—a compact, rear-wheel-drive performance coupe that revives the spirit of classic M cars like the E30 M3. Here’s a clear, generation-by-generation history.

Why The M2 Exists

By the early 2010s, BMW M cars had grown larger, heavier, and more complex. Enthusiasts wanted something smaller, purer, and more affordable. BMW responded by creating a true M car based on the 2 Series platform—thus, the M2 was born.

1st Generation: BMW M2 (F87) – 2016–2018

Debut: 2015
Production: 2016–2018

Key Highlights

Engine: 3.0L twin-turbo inline-6 (N55)

Power: 365 hp (370 hp with overboost)

Drivetrain: RWD

Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT

Why It Mattered

Used M3/M4 suspension and drivetrain components

Compact, muscular design with wide fenders

Immediately praised for its balance, steering feel, and playful handling

💡 Many fans consider this the moment BMW “returned to form.”

BMW M2 Competition – 2018–2021

Debut: 2018

What Changed

Engine upgrade: S55 twin-turbo inline-6 (from M3/M4)

Power: 405 hp

Improved cooling, brakes, and chassis stiffness

New mirrors, black kidney grilles, and updated interior

Reception

Faster, sharper, more aggressive

Slightly heavier and more serious than the original

Became a favorite for track enthusiasts

BMW M2 CS – 2020 (Limited Edition)

Production: ~2,200 units worldwide

Special Features

Power: 444 hp

Carbon fiber hood, roof, and interior components

Adaptive suspension standard

Significant weight reduction

Legacy

The ultimate evolution of the F87

Highly collectible and expensive on the used market

2nd Generation: BMW M2 (G87) – 2023–present

Debut: 2022
Production: 2023 onward

Major Changes

Engine: S58 twin-turbo inline-6

Power: 453 hp

Transmission: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic

Wider, heavier, and more powerful than before

Design & Philosophy

Bold, angular styling (controversial but distinctive)

More rigid chassis shared with M3/M4

Focuses on raw performance while still offering a manual

Reception

Universally praised for performance and engine character

Mixed opinions on styling

Seen as the most powerful and capable M2 ever

Why the M2 Is Special

One of the last BMW M cars with a manual transmission

Compact size + RWD + turbo inline-six = classic BMW formula

Acts as the entry point to true M performance

M2 in BMW History

The M2 is often viewed as the spiritual successor to the E30 M3:

Smaller than M3/M4

Driver-focused

Less luxury, more attitude