The BMW M2 Competition is a throwback to a time when most performance coupes were more prominent and more expensive. It has a 405-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine, taut and lively handling, and a standard manual transmission, which is becoming increasingly rare these days. Because the M2 is based on the 2 Series coupe, its styling isn’t particularly flashy. However, those in the know will immediately recognize the M2’s wider fenders, larger brakes, and more aggressive front end.
The high-revving twin-turbocharged straight-six engine devours straightaways faster than anything else. It also has a quick dual-clutch automatic transmission. The harsh ride and unimpressive interior are less of an issue on the less expensive M240i, but the actual M car is fantastic because it is an uncompromising driver’s car.
Engine
The M2’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine is amazing, producing 405 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain is routed to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission as standard or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as an option. As you rev it to the 7600-rpm redline, the engine moves the M2 with unbridled ferocity and causes butterflies in your stomach. Those who are willing to put up with the abuse on public roads will be rewarded with pure ecstasy on the track. The M2 behaves like an extension of its driver, with a gleefully violent thrust and a clairvoyant chassis. Aside from the harsh ride, the M2 is a fantastic driver’s car. Complaining drivers will find solace in the softer BMW M240i.
Instead of the adaptive dampers found in most competitors, the BMW employs traditional passive shocks tuned the old-fashioned way. Unfortunately, the electrically assisted power steering takes away some of the fun. The M2’s massive rotors and powerful binders provide excellent, never-fading pedal feedback.
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Ride and Handling
This engine’s power is broad and muscular, making it simple to attack a good road with only a couple of gears. The M2 has high handling limits, but this is where it gets tricky. It takes a skilled hand to get the most out of it because the chassis is eager to turn but can be twitchy on less-than-ideal roads. The brakes are a little noisy, but they consistently provide strong stopping power.
While not punishing, it can be exhausting on a choppy freeway. It’ll make you reconsider charging down a road with a less-than-ideal surface. The seats are extremely supportive and comfortable. The bolsters can be adjusted to fit a variety of body types.
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Interior
The M2 Competition excites the senses while driving and commands attention on the road, but its low-quality interior does neither. It’s strewn with racy carbon fiber and faux-suede trim, but the panel fit and finish at this price are disappointing. The M2 is a four-seater, but it is best suited for two passengers, their luggage, and a few sundries for longer trips. While none of these compact sports cars is ideal for long-distance travel, the BMW holds fewer carry-ons than most competitors and has a particularly small center-console storage bin.
It may take some fiddling with the driver’s seat and steering wheel adjustments to get comfortable, but once there, you’ll most likely have an ideal driving position. And, unless you’re exceptionally tall, your rear passengers will have adequate legroom even if headroom is limited.
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Infotainment
The standard iDrive infotainment system in the BMW is controlled by an 8.8-inch touchscreen with a clean interface and above-average response times. Although Android Auto is not available, Apple CarPlay is. The infotainment screen on the M2’s dash is angled toward the driver, preserving peripheral vision. The Bimmer comes with a premium Harman/Kardon stereo and a one-year subscription to SiriusXM All Access, in addition to expected standard features like Bluetooth and voice recognition. The M2 also has two USB ports and three 12-volt outlets.
The navigation system is quick and precise, but the audio system could use a little more punch. The M2’s driver aids are fairly effective, but adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert are not available. The optional Executive Package includes wireless charging.
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Fuel Economy
According to the EPA, the manual M2 is slightly more efficient than the automatic. The stick-shift model gets 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the automatic gets 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Key safety features include:
- Available forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking.
- Available lane-departure warning.
- Available automatic high-beams.
Verdict
The BMW M2 Competition is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced. It’s a fast and demanding car with high limits, but thanks to its compact and blocky shape, it manages to fly under the radar. It can handle the daily grind with ease thanks to its powerful yet pleasant engine. On a good road — or even better, a racetrack — it can propel you forward and sideways at incredible speeds.
It will take some time and familiarity to get the most out of this vehicle. When cracked, however, the M2 can deliver a near-unrivaled driving experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a used M2 cost?
Used BMW M2 prices currently range from $36,000 to $99,998, with mileage ranging from 1,302 to 95,213.
Is the BMW M2 a car?good
The BMW M2 offers a thrilling driving experience while also offering four seats, a secure trunk, and just-tough-enough styling. It does not lavish the driver with cutting-edge technology, but it does provide a sense of exhilaration that is nearly unrivaled for the price. This little German muscle car will undoubtedly become a future classic.
What are the common problems with the BMW M2?
Common problems with the BMW M2 include coil packs, leaking oil gasket valves, and oil lights.
Is the BMW M2 expensive to maintain?
The estimated cost of maintaining and repairing a BMW M2 ranges from $95 to $2331, with an average of $330, making it a reasonably priced vehicle to own.
What is the difference between the M240i and the M235i?
The fact that these cars are built on two completely different platforms is perhaps the most significant distinction between them. The M240i is a compact, rear-wheel-drive vehicle. The M235i is based on a small front-wheel-drive chassis from the 1-Series with Mini roots.
