When BMW launched the unique M2 CS (F87) in 2019, it gave M fans a alternative. Consumers had to decide on between a six-speed guide transmission and a seven-speed dual-clutch automated transmission. The Competitors Sport-spec G87 is now formally out, however don’t go on the lookout for that third pedal. The high-performance coupe comes solely with an eight-speed torque-converter automated.
On the 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, we rightfully requested BMW why the new M2 CS misses out on a stick shift. M boss Frank van Meel defined that together with a guide would’ve resulted in an output beneath 500 hp. They wished to exceed that threshold, which is why the compact sports activities coupe packs 523 hp. That’s 20 hp greater than a rear-wheel-drive M4 and simply as a lot because the M4 xDrive. Sticking with a DIY gearbox would’ve additionally prevented engineers from unlocking the total torque of the S58 engine. The dual-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six belts out 479 lb-ft (650 Nm), matching the all-wheel-drive M4.
Through the interview, we identified that M has made a guide M automobile with greater than 500 horsepower. Based mostly on the M4 CSL, the 3.0 CSL holds the title of probably the most highly effective six-cylinder BMW highway automobile ever made. It routes 553 hp to the rear axle by way of a six-speed guide. It’s a 10-hp bump over the donor automobile, in addition to versus the M3 CS and M4 CS. Nevertheless, solely 50 items of the three.0 CSL had been ever constructed, and its torque was dialed down to only 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) in order that the gearbox might deal with it with out elevating reliability considerations.
Van Meel defined that engineers discovered a “very particular resolution” for the three.0 CSL, one which wouldn’t be possible for a higher-volume automobile. Whereas manufacturing numbers haven’t been disclosed, BMW is anticipated to construct round 2,000 items of the M2 CS. On a associated observe, we’ve realized that the guide take charge amongst M2 patrons in america remains to be above 50%. In Europe, greater than half desire the automated as a substitute.
Van Meel additionally talked a bit concerning the suspension setup of the M2 CS. Mainly, there are not any {hardware} modifications, other than totally different dampers and setup. A lot of the modifications are on the software program aspect and Van Meel believes the tires that are rated for the M2 CS will make an enormous distinction within the driving dynamics.
Why no yellow daytime operating lights? “There are totally different causes for that, however really it doesn’t take away the efficiency of the automobile,” Van Meel says. “So we accepted that,” he added. We’ve heard it’s a mixture of homologations but additionally engineering constraints, however nobody would formally affirm that to us.
The newcomer to the M storage additionally skips all-wheel drive. The BMW M boss talked about that the M2 CS omits xDrive to maintain weight down. As a refresher, the US-spec mannequin sheds 97 kilos in comparison with the Steptronic-equipped M2, whereas in Europe, the load financial savings come to about 30 kilograms.
Though the M2 CS doesn’t ship energy to all 4 wheels, we firmly imagine xDrive is on the best way. BMW might launch the all-paw model as early as subsequent 12 months. It’ll be an auto-only affair, however the guide gearbox is staying within the RWD mannequin.
