When BMW launched the unique M2 CS (F87) in 2019, it gave M lovers a selection. Patrons 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 in search of 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 wished 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.
Throughout 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 probably the most highly effective six-cylinder BMW street 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 models 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 may deal with it with out elevating reliability considerations.
Van Meel defined that engineers discovered a “very particular answer” 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 models of the M2 CS. On a associated observe, we’ve discovered that the handbook take charge amongst M2 consumers in the US continues to be above 50%. In Europe, greater than half choose the automated as a substitute.
Van Meel additionally talked a bit concerning the suspension setup of the M2 CS. Mainly, there aren’t any {hardware} adjustments, other than completely different dampers and setup. Many of the adjustments are on the software program facet 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 completely different causes for that, however really 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 mix of homologations but in addition engineering constraints, however nobody would formally verify 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 burden 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 way in which. BMW may 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.
