3-Liter Straight-Six Engine Producing 370 PS

Model ChangeThis compact coupe from BMW, which changed its name from the "1 Series" to the "2 Series" with its model change.Arrived in Japan last FebruaryBased on this model, BMW M has now added the sports model "M2 Coupe."

The current 2 Series Coupe already features the top-grade " M235i"M235i," which is also sold in Japan, but like the other M-badged lineup such as " M3 Sedan / M4 Coupe" and " M5 Sedan", and "M6 Coupe," the "M2" is the true masterpiece, honed for serious sports driving with a focus on the circuit.

It is powered by a 3-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing a maximum output of 272 kW (370 PS) at 6,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 465 Nm between 1,400 and 5,560 rpm. With the overboost function, an additional 35 Nm of torque, reaching 500 Nm, can be temporarily achieved. This unit, which shares some parts like the pistons with its elder siblings, the M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe, features the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology, incorporating twin-scroll turbochargers, high-precision injection, Double VANOS, and Valvetronic.

Furthermore, to prevent engine performance degradation during intense acceleration, deceleration, and high lateral G-forces on the track, measures such as a modified oil sump cover shape and an additional air intake have been implemented.

The transmission options are a 6-speed manual with a rev-matching function, or a 7-speed dual-clutch M DCT. The M DCT is equipped with "Driving Logic," which momentarily disengages the clutch to help regain control during oversteer, or simulates the creep function of a torque converter automatic. Additionally, it features "Smoky Burnout" which allows for wheelspin during low-speed driving.

The 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 4.3 seconds with the M DCT equipped with launch control, and 4.5 seconds with the 6-speed manual. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, but this is increased to 270 km/h when the M Driver's Package is fitted.

Despite featuring an engine specialized for such sporty driving, the M2 achieves fuel economy figures of 8.5 L/100km (approximately 11.8 km/L) for the 6-speed manual and 7.9 L/100km (12.7 km/L) for the M DCT, thanks to the standard inclusion of features like Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration.

Suspension Inherited from the M3/M4

The rear axle is equipped with an "Active M Differential," which electronically controls a multi-plate LSD to constantly optimize traction and stability. The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) comprehensively analyzes factors such as steering angle, accelerator position, braking force, engine torque, wheel speed, and yaw rate (the tendency of the vehicle to rotate laterally during cornering) to adjust the torque distribution between the left and right wheels from 0 to 100 percent. If a loss of traction is detected on one wheel during driving, the system instantly calculates the distribution balance and drives a motor to achieve lock control within 150 milliseconds with up to 2,500 Nm of force, maintaining vehicle stability.

The suspension, inherited from the M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe, is made of lightweight yet highly rigid aluminum. The car rides on 19-inch M double-spoke alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, sized 245/35ZR19 at the front and 265/35R19 at the rear. The braking system features M compound ventilated discs, measuring φ380mm at the front and φ370mm at the rear.

Like other M models, the M2 Coupe is not exclusively a track-focused vehicle. Optional features include driving assistance functions such as collision avoidance and mitigation braking with pedestrian detection, and Lane Departure Warning, as well as a rearview camera. Furthermore, a variety of applications can be utilized through ConnectedDrive. For instance, the GoPro app allows users to record speed, lateral and longitudinal G-forces, engine RPM, gear, steering angle, throttle position, and fuel consumption during track driving, enabling post-drive analysis of driving performance.

In the previous generation, alongside the "M135i," there was a model in its home market named "1 Series M Coupe" to avoid confusion with past mid-ship sports cars, rather than being called "M1." Unfortunately, this model was not introduced to Japan. The M2 Coupe is its direct successor, and we eagerly anticipate the arrival of this rare compact rear-wheel-drive sports coupe.

BMW M2 Coupe
Body Dimensions: 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: (6MT) 1,495 kg, (M DCT) 1,520 kg
Engine: 2,979cc Inline 6-Cylinder DOHC Turbo
Maximum Output: 272 kW (370 PS) / 6,500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 465 Nm / 1,400-5,560 rpm
(Overboost) 500 Nm / 1,450-4,750 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed Manual, 7-speed Dual Clutch (M DCT)
Drivetrain: FR
Front Brakes: φ380mm Compound Ventilated Discs
Rear Brakes: φ370mm Compound Ventilated Discs
Front Suspension: Double Wishbone with Strut
Rear Suspension: 5-link
Tires Front/Rear: 245/35R19 / 265/35R19
0-100 km/h Acceleration: (6MT) 4.5 seconds, (M DCT) 4.3 seconds
Top Speed: 250 km/h (270 km/h with M Driver's Package)
Minimum Ground Clearance: 123 mm
Trunk Capacity: 390 ℓ
Fuel Consumption (ECE): (6MT) 8.5 ℓ/100km (approx. 11.8 km/ℓ), (M DCT) 7.9 ℓ/100km (approx. 12.7 km/ℓ)
CO2 Emissions: (6MT) 199 g/km, (M DCT) 185 g/km