M2

Make
BMW
Segment
Coupe

We've known for a while that a more powerful BMW M2 CS is coming thanks to leaked details and spy shots of prototypes, but this is the first time we've seen it in action. Auto Sport managed to get behind the wheel of a prototype M2 CS before the official reveal and hammer it around the Hockenheim race circuit in Germany. Luckily, the lap was filmed for our viewing pleasure from the driver's perspective.

Impressively, the M2 CS posted a best lap time of one minute and 55.80 seconds with Uwe Sener behind the wheel. To put that into perspective, that's several seconds faster than the lap times set by the Toyota GR Supra, Lamborghini Urus, Porsche 718 Boxster T, and Audi TT RS Coupe. It's also only 1.2 seconds slower than the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera and 0.6 seconds slower than the Audi R8 V10 Spyder Performance, which are considerably more powerful.

BMW isn't ready to show off the M2 CS yet, but leaked order guides have confirmed the 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine will be tuned to produce 450 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque, which will be sent to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. As you can hear in the video, it sounds aggressive thanks to a modified M Sport exhaust system.

Visually, the M2 CS will be distinguished by a carbon fiber roof, front splitter, rear spoiler, rear diffuser, and side mirrors. Other standard features will include the Adaptive M Suspension and 19 inch wheels. Production will reportedly be limited to just 2,000 units. We may not have to wait long for the M2 CS to break cover either, as reports claim the world debut is slated for the 2019 LA Auto Show in November.