The brand-new BMW M2 has just broken cover. The Bavarian coupe is trying to spoil the party of the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S. It gets more (much) power and a manual transmission.
The all-new BMW M2 has been completely redesigned and it’s not only in the new bolder-than-ever looks. The model now gets a twin-turbocharged S58 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 460 PS (453 HP) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft), with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed Steptronic with Drivelogic. Meanwhile, the range-topping Mercedes-AMG A 45 S stops at 421 PS and 500 Nm of torque. But it is only available with an automatic transmission, which might eventually steer purists towards the BMW.
The power bump in the BMW M2 is quite a big step forward. The previous-gen M2 came with 416 PS (410 HP) and 500 Nm of torque (396 lb-ft). That sounded more of a matching rival for Mercedes’ compact.
The driver-oriented BMW M2 with a manual transmission will run from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.1 seconds, while the automatic gearbox M2 does it 0.2 seconds faster. Mercedes made its performance compact cover the same distance in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 273 km/h (170 mph). The BMW hits 284 km/h (177 mph) when the owner ticks the optional M Driver’s Package.
Five colors are available for the new compact: it’s Alpine White, Sapphire metallic, Brooklyn Grey metallic, Toronto red Metallic, and the new Zandvoort Blue. The model gets the electromagnetically controlled Adaptive M Suspension and an Active M Differential as standard.
The all-new BMW M2 will roll off the assembly line in San Luis Potosi in Mexico. The car will set wheels on American soil in April 2023. Prices will then start at $63,194, with the destination charge included.
PHOTO GALLERY:
If you want something that would really match the BMW M2, here is Brabus’ take on the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S. It’s got 450 PS (444 HP)!
