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
