M2 CS

Make
BMW
Segment
Coupe

The BMW M2 Competition is our favorite M car on sale but BMW has been working on an even more hardcore version called the M2 CS. It wasn't much of a secret - due to the abundance of spy shots - but the reveal is no less exciting because this will likely be the greatest M car on sale today. Introducing the 2020 M2 CS: a limited edition, track-ready coupe with everyday usability.

This is the most powerful M2 yet, courtesy of a 3.0-liter twin-turbo S55 inline-six producing 444 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque (preliminary), an increase of 39 hp compared to the M2 Competition. BMW says the M2 CS will hit 60 mph in 3.8 seconds when equipped with the seven-speed DCT but if you favor rowing your own gears, the six-speed manual car will do the sprint in four seconds on its way to a 174 mph (preliminary) top speed.

BMW developed the car alongside the new M2 CS racing model, meaning it should be highly focused for track use. In the future, BMW M GmbH and BMW Motorsport will work together on limited edition M cars, which is great news for enthusiasts. As part of this collaboration, the M2 CS features CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) body panels and components, which help lower the center of gravity and improve the aerodynamics. Inside, the car also features exclusive carbon-fiber and Alcantara interior trim.

If you opt for the six-speed manual, it comes with a carbon-fiber friction lining to improve shift feel. It also includes BMW's excellent rev-matching technology. The DCT will be far superior on track, providing quicker shifts than any human could execute manually. In both automatic and manual mode, the DCT includes Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ settings for the shift logic. Underneath, an Active M Differential with an electronically controlled multi-plate can vary the locking effect from 0 to 100 percent based on the steering angle, accelerator position, brake pressure, engine torque, wheel speed, and yaw rate.

The CS also adds Adaptive M suspension, which is a first for any M2 model. This new suspension gives drivers a choice of Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes. Two brake options will be available including base M Compound stoppers featuring 400-mm front vented disks and 380-mm rear vented disks with red-painted six-piston fixed front and four-piston fixed rear calipers. Optionally, for the first time on an M2, the CS can be equipped with an M Carbon Ceramic Brake package for reduced weight with greatly improved brake wear characteristics.

All M2 CS models ride on 19-inch Forged Y-spoke Style 763 wheels finished in either Gloss Jet Black or a Gold matt finish. The tires are sized 245/35R19 in the front and 265/35R19 in the rear and customers can choose between Michelin Cup 2 tires or mixed performance rubber.

Inside, the cabin is the raciest we have seen from an M2. The center transmission tunnel console is made from CFRP, which saves six pounds compared to the standard console. Alcantara materials cover the armrest, dash, and steering wheel, while the M Competition seats are finished in Alcantara / Black Merino leather with red contrast stitching and BMW M Motorsport stripes embroidered into the headrests. CS logos are also prominently displayed throughout the car.

The M2 CS will be available in four colors: Alpine White, Misano Blue Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic, and Hockenheim Silver Metallic. Only one model year will be produced in a small, 2,200 unit run, so you better get your order in quickly. Production begins in March 2020 and we will likely get word on pricing during the car's debut at the 2019 LA Auto Show on November 20th, 2019.