The BMW M2 was first launched back in 2015, I still remember the first time I saw it, and I instantly preferred it over the M3 and M4. It had something unique about it; in a way, it showcased BMWs pedigree and heritage. A small coupe with a throaty engine, loads of horsepower and rear-wheel drive; remind you of anything? The first generation e30 M3. Though in Spring 2020 they launched the ultimate edition, the M2 CS.
The engine in the M2 CS is the same one found in the M3 and M4 Competition, a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder, and it sounds heavenly. Producing well over 440 bhp and 550 Nm of torque means that this German powerhouse will accelerate from 0-62 mph in under 4 seconds and carry on going well over 170 mph in a car that weighs less than 1.6 tonnes, which is quite impressive. Another fantastic little fact is that the S55 engine, which the M2 CS has, is highly tuneable, and there have been occasions where the engines have pushed well over the 700 bhp region and more; it boggles the mind as to how impressive this pocket rocket is. It doesn’t come cheap though, starting prices were £72,600, but they’ve recently gone up on the second-hand market. Meaning that they are very desirable, considering a mere 2,200 units were ever built.
The interior itself is nothing too special or out of this world; it’s functional and sufficient. You have to do with the old instrument cluster layout, as the CS came out before the digital cluster was introduced in the newer models. The all-new 2021 M240i, however, does have the latest and up to date interior, but we’ll review this one at a later date. The interior might be simplistic in design, but it doesn’t mean you are left bare-boned; you have leather, heated seats and other creature comforts as well. The interior is more or less the same as the old M3 and M4 from that era, though the carbon elements help break up the bland black interior and add a sense of sportiness.
The exterior is an entirely different story, put a standard two series, M2, M2 Competition and the M2 CS, and the difference is clear as night and day. BMW went to town to ensure the CS stands out more than any other two series in the range. There is extensive use of carbon everywhere, and technological logic is also applied, such as carbon roof to reduce the centre of gravity, sticky and sporty tyres to ensure maximum grip. Air and cooling vents that work, along with a lip spoiler, diffuser, and front splitters, aid with aerodynamics and performance.
The BMW M2 CS does offer a breath of fresh air; it appeals back to the old hearts who want to follow the homage and heritage of BMW. The badge might say M2 CS, but truth be told, it is the re-incarnation of the classic e30 M3.
Sources and Images:
BMW Blog
Topspeed.com
hdcarwallpapers.com
Bleeding Edge Digital 
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