New 2023 BMW M2 – 454 HP, RWD Sports Coupe

In the performance cars world nowadays, everything is either too absurdly powerful, or too sophisticated that one can’t even pronounce the parts’ names, let alone tinker with it. With electrification breathing down manufacturer’s neck day by day, to have a simple, pure-combustion sports car, is a refreshing breather.

Meet the all-new 2023 BMW M2, the second coming of the entry-level M. Now boasting 454 HP, this sports coupe also sports a rear-wheel drive configuration, with an option for a six-speed manual gearbox – truly sticks to the simplistic yet bombastic M roots.

The ‘sticking to the roots’ game does not end on its stick shift option. Early leaks of the M2’s design really gets people talking – be it positively or not – with numerous enthusiasts opining that the M2 took inspos from the M’s predeceasing legend, the E30 M3. Though not as boxy as said predecessor, M2’s latest iteration truly moves on from the Mark 1 M2’s rounder, tighter look, but not on a whole exodus level.

Take out the measuring tape and you’ll notice the M2’s width (1,887 MM) is far superior than its plain-Jane 2 Series counterparts, thanks to its slightly boxy, muscular widebody design. Measuring at 2,747 MM, the shorter wheelbase promises a more agile and aggressive drive for the M2 than its larger coupe siblings, the BMW M4

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BMW’s signature kidney grille is now larger for bigger air intakes, though not as massive as the opinion-splitting M3 and M4 giant grille.  Gone is the old, slender headlights for something rounder and compact, making space for the said larger front grille.

Around the back lies yet another M’s signature finish is the quad-piped M exhaust system, aside from the super-wide wheel arches and obligatory M badging. Now with switchable setups and variable loudness level, the exhaust system is perfect to annoy your neighbours and local street racers alike.

Inside the coupe’s cabin lies the signature M-embossed bucket carbon seats. Carbon fibre finishing, M-badge on side door panels and M-designed shift paddles (on the 8-speed version) constantly remind you that you’re driving an M car – apart from being an absolute eye-candy.

Track-oriented widgets such as lap times and track information are now available via the 14.9-inch control display. Additional driving information also displayed from the optional head-up display – now your eyes can stay focused on the road all the time.

From the groundwork, the new M2 features the adaptive M suspension systems and six-piston M brake callipers. New M light-alloy sport rims now measuring 19-inch and 20-inch front and back, wrapped around by Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tyres. To further help with handling and traction is the Active M Differential, situated at the rear axle.

For balance, this new M now comes with new M-specific bracings and models-specified chassis setup and design – fine-tuned on the Nurburgring’s infamous Nordschleife circuit. The near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution is a much-needed addition in the M’s quest for a well-balanced, agile sports car.

Under the hood is the M’s signature inline-6 3.0 L M TwinPower Turbo engine, now spitting 454 HP and maximum twist of 550 NM.  Paired with said engine is the standard eight-speed M Steptronic gearbox, or for the old school folks, an optional six-speed manual transmission. The auto gearbox comes with three shift modes, with the manual now comes with a deactivate-able Gear Shift Assistance – because what’s the point of putting a manual gearbox if it’s still electronic-assisted?

Altogether, the whole power package now accelerates the new M2 to a 4.1 seconds finish, from 0 to 100 KMH. Definitely no slouch, this one is.

Despite rumoured to be sporting the xDrive AWD configuration, the new M2 remains pure to its RWD heritage. This new piece from M’s long motorsport history could be yours for around £61,495 (RM319,087), with sales expected to commence mid-2023 for both European and North American markets.