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2017 BMW M2

Starting at $53,495

10/10 C/D RATING
Specs
2017 bmw m2
Michael Simari|Car and Driver
10/10 C/D RATING

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  • Highs Powerful turbocharged inline-six, thrilling acceleration, clairvoyant handling.
  • Lows Ride might be too stiff for some buyers, poor-quality interior, tight back seat.
  • Verdict The M2's rorty engine and superb handling make it a brilliant driver's car, but its ride might be a bit harsh for a daily driver.

Overview

BMW returns to its Ultimate Driving Machine roots with the track-tastic M2. This wide-body hot-rod version of the little 2-series coupe caters to hard-core enthusiasts who prefer max performance over daily comfort. A ferocious 365-hp turbocharged inline-six, precise handling, and a tenacious attitude earned the red-hot M2 our 2017 10Best Cars award. Although BMW has alienated purists in recent years by producing an overload of crossovers and progressively subdued sports sedans, this smallest and purest machine in the company’s souped-up M lineup has resuscitated the company's reputation.

What's New for 2017?

The first M2 hit showrooms in 2016 with a coupe as the sole body style. Compared to the regular 2-series, the M2 got sportier suspension, bigger brakes, lighter 19-inch wheels, stickier tires, a more powerful turbocharged inline-six, and a limited-slip differential. For 2017, the optional Executive package adds features like Wi-Fi and wireless smartphone charging. A new M Driver’s package includes a one-day performance driving school and a software update that raises the top-speed limiter from 155 mph to 168 mph.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

  • M2: $53,495

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The M2’s powerful 3.0-liter inline-six has been tweaked to make 365 horses and 369 lb-ft of torque. That combination reaches the rear wheels via a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. No matter the gearbox, the M2 accelerates with unbridled ferocity and a snarling exhaust note. The twin-scroll turbo responds on demand and delivers linear power throughout the rev range. Although the manual transmission can't quite match the speed and smoothness of the automatic, the stick-shift M2 can hang with the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 and the Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE in a drag race to 60 mph; after that, it falls a bit behind by the end of the quarter-mile. Those willing to accept the M2's punishing ride on regular roads will be rewarded with pure ecstasy on the track. There, the M2 handles like an extension of its driver, with gleefully violent thrust and a clairvoyant chassis. Harsh ride aside, the M2 is a phenomenal driver’s car.

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Marc Urbano|Car and Driver

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The M2 excites the senses behind the wheel and commands attention on the street, but its low-quality interior is a letdown. Despite racy carbon-fiber and microsuede trim, the panel fit and finish is disappointing at this price. That, combined with the drab plastics and the uncomfortable and unsupportive front seats, has diminished our opinion of the cabin. It’s also only available in one color scheme: black with blue contrast stitching. We do like the driver’s seating position and the logical layout. The M2 is a four-seater, but for extended travel, it is best suited to two passengers. While few compact sports cars are ideal travel companions, the BMW's trunk holds less luggage than most rivals and suffers from a particularly small center-console storage bin.

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Marc Urbano|Car and Driver

Infotainment and Connectivity

The M2’s standard BMW iDrive infotainment system works through a remote-controlled 8.8-inch display that has a clean interface and above-average response times. The layered menus are deep and well designed, but they’re cumbersome to navigate while moving. Along with anticipated standard features such as Bluetooth and voice recognition, the Bimmer has a premium Harman Kardon stereo, a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio, dual USB ports, and three 12-volt outlets. Options include a 4G LTE mobile hotspot, wireless smartphone charging, and Apple CarPlay, but not Android Auto.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the BMW M2’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.

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