Amidst the current buzz surrounding EVs and SUVs, the realm of sports cars has been somewhat sidelined. Yet, for those passionate about the thrill of a two-door sports car, the choices have notably slimmed down in recent times. Despite this, the silver lining is that there are still exceptional options catering to enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating driving experience. One shining example of this is the 2023 BMW M2.
Inheriting numerous components from its larger counterpart, the M4, the second-generation M2 wraps these elements into a smaller, more affordable package. While the 2023 M2 retains its compact nature, it’s slightly larger than its predecessor. Stretching 4.1 inches longer and a wheelbase expanded by 2.1 inches, it now mirrors the M4’s wider front and rear tracks. To shed some weight, an optional carbon fiber roof is available, despite the overall weight increasing by 184 pounds.
The M2 embodies the classic sports coupe silhouette reminiscent of past sports car designs, maintaining a three-box conventional structure—thankfully steering clear of the contentious grille sported by the M4.
Under the hood, the M2 boasts the same turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six as the M3 and M4 but exclusively comes with rear-wheel drive. The S58 engine churns out an impressive 453 horsepower, slightly less than the standard M4 but matches it with 406 pound-feet of torque. Standard with a six-speed manual transmission and an optional ZF eight-speed automatic, the M2 offers a delightful driving experience.
With a thrilling 7,200 rpm redline and a captivating soundtrack from its quad tailpipes, the M2, although having slightly less turbo boost than the M4, accelerates swiftly and clings to the road like a dream, reigniting the ecstatic sensations often missed in modern rides.
Clocking a swift 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, the new M2 outpaces the standard M4, which achieves the same in 4.1 seconds. Simply put, the M2 excels in acceleration, braking, and grip, surpassing its predecessor.
It offers various driving modes and borrows the M4’s rear axle, adaptive dampers, brakes, and even the same Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires, with an option for Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
Inside, the M2 boasts BMW’s Curved Display, a fusion of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch center touchscreen. Optional M Carbon bucket seats reduce the car’s weight by 24 pounds. However, despite the increased length, seating space in the second row remains limited for passengers.
The pricing for the 2023 BMW M2 starts at $63,195. The M2 rivals the Audi RS3 and Mercedes-AMG CLA 45. Both of those models offer more practicality with four doors and all-wheel drive, but the M2 is easily the best of the three with its excellent handling and silky smooth six-cylinder.
