A limited-run special edition of the 2020 M2 Competition model is set to land in Australia in the middle of next year, with the BMW M2 CS delivering a power increase of 29kW (to 331kW) and the first ever manual transmission in a CS model.
An array of design elements made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) ensure the BMW M2 CS cuts an even sharper figure than the BMW M2 Competition while also immediately declaring its intent.
They include a newly designed bonnet, a roof made entirely from CFRP (a first for the BMW M2), the new front splitter, the gurney – a spoiler lip on the boot lid – and a rear diffuser in exposed carbon fibre.
Alongside its outstanding racetrack potential, the BMW M2 CS also makes a convincing impression with its everyday usability while providing stunning looks thanks to its Misano Blue metallic paintwork.
The M TwinPower Turbo in-line engine develops 331kW, and the engine’s power is transferred to the road or race track via adaptive M suspension –previously reserved for M4 models – and Cup tyres.
Adaptive M suspension allows the driver to alter the damper settings through Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes. Comfort optimises ride comfort, Sport ensures dynamic progress on twisty country roads and Sport+ delivers elevated track performance.
The brake system includes larger brake discs than the M compound brakes of the BMW M2 Competition (front axle: 400 mm diameter, rear axle: 380 mm diameter) and larger calipers (front axle: six-piston fixed callipers, rear axle: four-piston fixed calipers).
This top-class set-up delivers exceptional braking performance with excellent stopping power in all conditions, strong fade resistance and considerable thermal stability.
Customers can also option BMW M Carbon ceramic brakes with six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear. These are even lighter, can soak up the harshest punishment (in track use, for example) and also last longer.
Credit for the car’s sharp and agile handling goes to elements such as the CFRP high-precision strut brace, which increases the rigidity of the front-end structure, and the extremely accurate DSC (dynamic stability control) system.
The latter offers generous levels of traction in wet conditions and when wheel slip becomes a factor, and prevents a sudden breakaway of traction mid-drift.
In addition, the Active M Differential – with its electronically-controlled multi-plate locking mechanism – responds with exceptional precision and speed to optimise traction and directional stability. In certain situations it even works proactively.
When all out track driving is required, the selectable M Dynamic Mode (MDM) – a sub-function of DSC – allows a greater degree of wheel slip and increases the freedom available to drivers at the dynamic limit.
More significant oversteer and understeer are possible, as are moderate, controlled drifts.
The BMW M2 CS is fitted with 19-inch Y-spoke forged wheels in High-gloss Black or, as an option, a matte gold finish.
Shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres in 245/35 ZR 19 format and honed specially for the M2 CS, the front wheels meet the highest standards when it comes to lateral control, directional stability, steering feel and steering precision.
The 265/35 ZR 19 rear tyres optimise traction, lateral control and directional stability. Owners looking to use their BMW M2 CS predominantly in everyday driving can specify Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres as a no-cost option.
When fitted with the optional seven-speed M double-clutch transmission (M DCT), it sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds.
With the six-speed manual gearbox – offered for the first time in a BMW CS model and completely in tune with the desires of M2 target customers – the figure is 4.2 seconds.
The top speed of the M Driver’s Package-equipped special edition is capped electronically at 280 km/h. Measures and technology employed for the engine provide both performance and efficiency advantages.
The engine’s increased appetite for cooling air is reflected in the design of the bonnet, whose integrated air vent helps expel hot air more effectively.
The exhaust system – which represents an upgrade on the BMW M2 Competition’s both visually and aurally – has a dual-branch design and sports quad tailpipes familiar to BMW M fans.
Two electrically controlled flaps ensure that the BMW M2 CS develops an engine note perfectly befitting of BMW M.
The cabin of the BMW M2 CS combines an exclusive appearance with use of race-bred Alcantara and innovative lightweight design elements. The centre console is made entirely of lightweight carbon fibre, and CFRP is also used for the door pulls and trim.
The ultra-light M Sport seats from the BMW M4 CS add another ergonomic and visual highlight.
Specification and pricing details for the 2020 BMW M2 CS in Australia will be announced ahead of its local launch.
