The BMW M2 Competition arrives, the wildest 2 Series yet, with the engine from the M4

Creating the BMW M2 was a revolution for the German firm, since they put into it the legacy left by the iconic E46 M3. They achieved this thanks to compact dimensions and a lively, explosive engine that sends all its power to the rear axle, like a proper BMW with an M badge on its rear. However, the brand was not satisfied with the M2’s launch and, after presenting the world with several more radical versions of the M3/M4, they decided to do the same with the smaller sibling, adding the Competition name.

The M division of BMW has decided to give free rein to its imagination and achieve for the BMW M2 to be one of the most sporting coupés on the market today. As we mentioned, the main novelty of the more “modest” M is that it houses the same powerplant that drives the M4 and, fortunately for the brand’s fans, the rumour that had been circulating online for months has become a very attractive reality.

The aesthetic changes on the M2 Competition are not many, since BMW has focused on sportiness and engine tuning; however, there are some differences compared with a standard M2: the first thing that catches the eye are the large 19-inch wheels with an exclusive design, which house the new M sport brakes; the front apron has also been redesigned, with aerodynamics playing an important role; last but not least, the wing mirrors feature a double arm, which we have already seen on other sporting models from the brand.

If we enter the cabin of the BMW M2 Competition, we will find a pleasant surprise, as the brand has fitted the M sport seats (optional). These will cradle our body perfectly, preventing us from sliding around as we bring out our more mischievous, playful side behind the wheel. However, the real and most noticeable changes are found under the bonnet of the most radical M2 to date.

The turbocharged inline six-cylinder that powers the M3 and M4 makes its debut in the M2 Competition, except that on this occasion it produces 410 CV, compared with the 431 CV available in its bigger siblings. This figure is complemented by 550 Nm of torque and, combined, they deliver performance befitting a supercar. The M2 Competition is capable of reaching 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, a time that rises to 4.4 seconds if the six-speed manual gearbox is chosen.

Speed is an essential element of this new BMW M2 , which is why the German sports coupé reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. However, the brand has also considered customers who want to go one step further, which is why the M Driver package is offered as an option, allowing a top speed of 280 km/h, electronically limited. At the same time, these performance levels have led BMW’s engineers to fit the high-precision strut brace between the front suspension towers, built in CFRP from the M3/M4, with the aim of providing greater rigidity and precision to the M2 Competition.

BMW has wanted to show that it can also play in the big leagues with the M2, which features a tuning worthy of a full-blown supercar. At the same time, the German firm has sought to differentiate its newest sports car from its main rivals, raising it to a level where, for now, it competes alone.