When BMW launched the unique M2 CS (F87) in 2019, it gave M fanatics a alternative. Consumers had to decide on between a six-speed handbook transmission and a seven-speed dual-clutch computerized transmission. The Competitors Sport-spec G87 is now formally out, however don’t go searching for that third pedal. The high-performance coupe comes completely with an eight-speed torque-converter computerized.
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 handbook would’ve resulted in an output beneath 500 hp. They needed 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 complete 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 handbook M automotive with greater than 500 horsepower. Based mostly on the M4 CSL, the 3.0 CSL holds the title of essentially the most highly effective six-cylinder BMW highway automotive ever made. It routes 553 hp to the rear axle through a six-speed handbook. It’s a 10-hp bump over the donor automotive, in addition to versus the M3 CS and M4 CS. Nevertheless, solely 50 items of the three.0 CSL have 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 automotive. Whereas manufacturing numbers haven’t been disclosed, BMW is anticipated to construct round 2,000 items of the M2 CS. On a associated word, we’ve discovered that the handbook take fee amongst M2 consumers in america remains to be above 50%. In Europe, greater than half want the automated as a substitute.
Van Meel additionally talked a bit in regards to the suspension setup of the M2 CS. Mainly, there are not any {hardware} modifications, apart from totally different dampers and setup. Many 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 working lights? “There are totally different causes for that, however truly it doesn’t take away the efficiency of the automotive,” 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 consider xDrive is on the best way. BMW might launch the all-paw model as early as subsequent yr. It’ll be an auto-only affair, however the handbook gearbox is staying within the RWD mannequin.
