The 2020 BMW M2 CS is the most extreme version of the outgoing 2-Series. And what better way to say goodbye to the current 2-Series than by giving it a powerful turbocharged inline-six motor derived from the M4 Competition along with a generous heaping of carbon-fiber body components and aero bits.
But don’t confuse the new M2 CS with BMW’s recently launched 2-Series Gran Coupe. Where the new M2 CS is based on a properly sporting rear-wheel-drive platform, the entry-level 2-Series GC is based on the FWD platform of the X1 and X2, which is also utilized on certain Mini models.
If the regular M240i with its 335-horsepower inline-six is a bit too tame, we’re certain the new M2 CS will fulfill your need for speed.
The BMW M2 CS is all about power and performance
Without a doubt, the 2020 BMW M2 CS is created to perfectly blend everyday usability with sterling racetrack performance. In order to do this, BMW gave the M2 CS an uprated engine derived from the M4 Competition model. This means a familiar 3.0-liter inline-six mill with BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology.
The M2 CS is good for 444-horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. More importantly, maximum torque is readily accessible from 2,350 to 5,500 rpm. This means you get the proper shove of an all-out sports car in what is conceivably a compact sport-luxury coupe. And with a 7,600 rpm redline along with a dual-branch exhaust system with electronically-controlled exhaust valves, the M2 CS is a true-blue racing machine.
It’s available with a six-speed manual gearbox
If there’s any indication the 2020 BMW M2 CS is reserved for purists, it has something to do with the availability of a six-speed manual gearbox. Equipped with carbon-fiber friction linings to enhance the shift feel, the lightweight and compact manual shifter is the one to get if you want uncompromising performance and control.
In the manual configuration, the M2 CS also comes with rev-matching technology. This means the system blips the throttle during fast downshifts while lowering engine speed during upshifts for smoother gear changes. If you like doing the dirty job yourself, turning off the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) will also turn off the rev-matching feature.
If you prefer the convenience of a proper automatic, BMW has you covered. The new M2 CS also comes with an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic with Drivelogic. Although the dual-clutch offers manual control via the gearshift lever or paddle shifters, Drivelogic offers a choice of three preconfigured driving programs including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+.
The BMW M2 CS is properly quick
As you would have guessed, the 2020 BMW M2 CS is properly quick. With the 6-speed manual box, the car rushes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.0-seconds. On the other hand, choosing the 7-speed dual-clutch box improves the time to 3.8-seconds.
However, the car has another party piece in the form of BMW’s Active M locking differential, which works in tandem with the vehicle’s DSC system. Equipped with an electronically-controlled multi-plate locking differential, the system can vary the locking effect from zero to 100-percent to ensure steady traction and better handling.
For the first time, the BMW M2 CS is fitted with adaptive M suspension
Previous models of the M2 had to make do with standard suspension. But in the new M2 CS, BMW decided to give the car with adaptive dampers. With this new system, the driver can choose from stiff to cosseting depending on the chosen drive mode. The car also receives a carbon-fiber strut tower brace first seen in the M2 Competition, which tips the scales at only 3.3 pounds.
The control arms and rear wheel hubs are crafted from forged aluminum while the steel subframe is bolted directly to the frame. All these improvements are meant to improve handling and stability.
You also get a ton of carbon fiber exterior panels and aero bits
The new BMW M2 CS has 40 more horsepower than the M2 Competition. And with a turbocharged engine producing 444-horsepower, the new M2 CS is almost as powerful as the M3. In order to maximize performance, handling, and efficiency, BMW had to find ways on how to save weight while improving engine cooling and aerodynamics.
For that, BMW gave the M2 CS the full carbon-fiber treatment. For instance, the hood is crafted from carbon fiber while the roof receives the carbon treatment as well. Meanwhile, the front splitter, rear diffuser, and door mirrors are also constructed from carbon-fiber to save weight.
The sporty interior blends race-inspired looks with a luxurious vibe
Unsurprisingly, the interior of the M2 CS also benefits from carbon-fiber appointments. The transmission tunnel is also made from carbon-fiber. According to BMW, it saves around 6 pounds compared to a standard console in a normal 2-Series.
But nothing defines a track-ready vehicle more than Alcantara, which can be found all over the interior. The M Sport steering wheel is covered in Alcantara while the standard M Competition front seats are wrapped in black Merino leather and Alcantara. The material is also found on the dash trim and center armrest.
Of course, no sporty vehicle is complete with the prerequisite red contrast stitching all over the cabin. Standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels with non-run flat performance tires, heated and power front seats, interior ambient lighting, a Harma/Kardon premium audio system, adaptive LED headlamps, Apple CarPlay, and a rearview camera with park distance control.
The 2020 BMW M2 CS is limited to 2,200 units globally
At first, BMW said only 500 units of the new M2 CS are destined to arrive in the USA, with global production capped at only 2,200 units. But now, the German automaker is unable to confirm the exact number of units arriving in North America.
No matter the case, BMW’s newest M2 CS is a limited-edition model and will only be sold in one model year. According to BMW, production for the M2 CS begins in March 2020. Pricing will be revealed at a later date.
