Delivers Exhilarating Driving Fun

BMW is a brand of sporty sedans. The "M2 Coupe" is a model that fans who have believed this will want to cheer about. Its relatively compact 2-door body, measuring 4,475mm in length, is powered by a 3-liter inline-six engine producing 272kW (370ps). It delivers exhilarating driving fun.

The M2 Coupe was released in Japan in May 2016. The stylish 2-door coupe, the 2 Series Coupe, includes the220i Coupe" and theM240 Coupe" in its lineup. The M2 Coupe is a special model that, while conceptually in the same vein, stands out for its sportiness.

The 2,979cc inline-six engine is fundamentally the same as the M240 Coupe's, but its power is increased by 22kW. Beyond the numbers, the key difference lies in the components, which have been optimized for the M2 Coupe.

Body dimensions are L x W x H = 4,475 x 1,855 x 1,410mm.

Simply put, the difference between the M2 Coupe and M240i Coupe is that the former was developed "to deliver maximum performance even during circuit driving with intense acceleration and deceleration" (BMW Japan). The engine and suspension are different. The result surpasses the numerical differences by far.

Specifically, it features pistons with low-friction top rings, and shares main bearings and spark plugs for the crankshaft with theM4 Coupe" M4 Coupe. Additionally, the M2 Coupe exclusively uses an engine cooling radiator and transmission oil cooler designed for circuit driving, along with a specific oil sump cover and suction oil pump.

The suspension system also uses M2 Coupe-specific parts. At the front, the control arms, wheel carriers, and axle carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, reducing weight by approximately 5kg compared to steel. At the rear, the control arms and wheel carriers are all forged aluminum, achieving a weight reduction of about 3kg compared to steel.

These features are advertised as achieving "excellent rigidity and reduced unsprung weight" (according to BMW's press release).

The wheelbase is a surprisingly long 2695mm.

Tire sizes are 245/35R19 front and 265/35R19 rear.

Another feature not to be overlooked is the "Active M Differential." This is a differential that actively controls power distribution to the left and right rear wheels. Specifically, it uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch to freely adjust the locking factor between the left and right rear wheels from 0 to 100 percent.

For example, it can prevent situations where the inner wheel loses traction during cornering, hindering torque transfer to the outer wheel. Parameters include vehicle speed, accelerator opening, wheel rotation speed, and yaw rate. The system anticipates driving situations requiring intervention. This allows for optimal power transfer to the road in all driving conditions.

The driving impression is simply astonishing.

The Car Eagerly Wants to Go Fast

Upon entering the M2 Coupe, the initial impression is merely that "it's been finished to be sportier than the standard model." The bucket seats and thick leather-wrapped steering wheel are race-inspired, but not particularly novel.

However, the moment you start the engine, put the gear (I drove the twin-clutch, two-pedal automatic) into D, and feel "this is different." Despite being a computer-controlled automatic clutch, it connects with the sharpness of a racing clutch, and even a light press of the accelerator pedal makes the car surge forward with a strong push from behind.

The setting, which generates a massive 465Nm of torque from a low 1,400rpm, clearly indicates its power, but more than that, it gives the impression that the car is restless, eager to go fast. This is supremely enjoyable. The engine sound, the exhaust note, everything conveys this wonderful vitality.

The 7-speed twin-clutch gearbox, with its racing car-like pattern of pulling back for upshifts and pushing forward for downshifts, is exclusive to the M2 Coupe and not available on the M240i Coupe. Tuned by BMW's performance division, M, the instantaneous connection between the engine and drivetrain is superb.

Interior features "carbon fiber trim."

Seats are black Dakota leather.

In October 2016,A 6-speed manual transmission version was also added.I haven't experienced it yet, so I can't say for sure, but setting aside personal preference, the twin-clutch type should be faster. The direct feel during acceleration and deceleration is also remarkable.

When you rev the engine to its peak output of 6,500rpm and then push forward for the next gear, it shifts instantaneously. Due to the sporty gear ratios, the engine speed doesn't drop significantly, and the power from the inline-six engine flows out continuously and abundantly – a wonderful sensation.

The transmission is a 7-speed M DCT Drivelogic twin-clutch type.

The 2979cc inline-six engine produces a maximum output of 272kW (370ps) and a maximum torque of 465Nm.

Next to the spherical-grip shift lever, exclusive to M models, is the "Driving Performance Control." Selecting Sport mode via the buttons allows you to more directly feel the essence of the M2 Coupe – the powerful and vibrant inline-six engine, with the drivetrain, chassis, and suspension built around it.

The M2 Coupe (7.93 million yen) is more expensive than the M240i Coupe (6.27 million yen with an 8-speed automatic). However, in an era where news about autonomous driving technology and electric vehicles fills the newspapers daily, it shines as a last bastion for car enthusiasts to protect. If you wanted a Porsche 718 Cayman that can seat four, I believe the M2 Coupe might be the better choice.

BMW M2 Coupe
Body Size | Length 4,468 x Width 1,854 x Height 1,410 mm
Wheelbase | 2,693 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,579 / 1,601 mm
Weight | 1,520 kg
Engine | 2,979cc Inline-6 DOHC Turbo
Max Output | 272 kW (370 ps) / 6,500 rpm
Max Torque | 465 Nm (47.4 kgm) / 1,400-5,560 rpm
(Overboost) 500 Nm (51.0 kgm) / 1,450-4,750 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed Dual Clutch (M DCT)
Drivetrain | FR
Brakes Front | φ380mm Compound Ventilated Discs
Brakes Rear | φ370mm Compound Ventilated Discs
Suspension Front | Double-joint Spring Strut
Suspension Rear | 5-link
Tires Front/Rear | 245/35R19 / 265/35R19
0-100 km/h Acceleration | 4.3 seconds
Top Speed | 250 km/h
Minimum Ground Clearance | 123 mm
Steering | Right
Price | 7.93 million yen