New BMW M2 CS

BMW's entry 'M' car gains the Competition Sport

badge, more aggressive styling and 523bhp

The new BMW M2 CS has been fully revealed, and it might be the last iteration of the brand's junior sports car to feature solely combustion power.

Starting at £86,800, this stripped-down, track-oriented sports car is the first version of the 'G87' M2 to be released, arriving six years after the original M2 CS (Competition Sport).

While the previous model was rated at 444bhp (40bhp more than the 'F87' M2), the new CS delivers 523bhp – 50bhp more than the standard M2, utilizing the same turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six. This power boost places it above its 493bhp rival, the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS.

The CS’s 479lb ft of torque necessitates the exclusive use of an eight-speed automatic gearbox, as BMW states the manual is limited to 406lb ft. Additionally, the decision to exclude a manual option in the CS was influenced by decreasing customer demand, according to the German company.

As a CS model, a significant focus was on reducing weight as much as possible. To achieve this, carbon fiber has been extensively used, replacing the metal roof and boot panels, resulting in a 30kg weight reduction compared to the standard M2, bringing the kerb weight to 1700kg. This contributes to a 0-62mph acceleration time of 3.8 seconds.

To handle the power, the CS is equipped with stiffer engine mounts and custom spring and damper tuning, alongside upgraded steering, brakes, and differentials. An optional lightweight titanium M Performance exhaust is also available, designed specifically for this track-focused model.

The CS sits 8mm nearer to the road compared to the standard M2, and the updated carbon fiber panels give the coupé a new appearance: the bootlid now includes an integrated ducktail-style rear spoiler, and there's a more robust rear diffuser than before. Additionally, a new lightweight alloy wheel design is introduced, available exclusively in a Golden Bronze finish. There are four paint options: Black Sapphire, Portimao Blue, Brooklyn Grey, and Velvet Blue.

Inside, the M2 CS features an Alcantara steering wheel with carbon fiber paddles, along with M Carbon bucket seats that are optional on other models. The center console is also crafted from carbon fiber and includes a red CS badge.

Despite its performance-focused design, the CS comes with amenities such as a heated steering wheel, three-zone climate control, a head-up display, and a Harman Kardon sound system.

The CS will be manufactured in limited quantities, with deliveries in the UK beginning late summer.