Just when you thought BMW M had run out of ways to surprise us, they drop a bombshell—a lifted BMW M2 built for the desert. Or at least, that’s what they want us to believe. On April Fools’ Day 2025, BMW M unveiled what they called “The Ultimate Off-Road Machine,” the BMW M2 Dakar. It’s bold, rugged, and completely unexpected. And yes, it’s also completely fake.
The M2 Dakar was introduced with all the dramatic flair of a serious off-road launch. BMW’s Instagram post declared it was “built for the toughest terrains, ready to tackle any challenge,” and at first glance, it seemed entirely believable. The car features a significantly raised suspension for greater ground clearance, wrapped in massive off-road tires that look ready to dig into sand, gravel, and rocks. Its aggressive bodywork includes extended fenders and a wide-body kit that seems pulled straight from a Dakar Rally special.
But the details didn’t stop there. The M2 Dakar was outfitted with full underbody protection stretching into the front bumper, a roof rack loaded with a spare tire and auxiliary navigation lights, and—perhaps the most clever touch—off-road rally lights seamlessly integrated into the kidney grilles. The styling strikes a perfect balance between fantasy and functionality, with just enough realism to leave fans second-guessing whether this might be a real one-off or concept project.
In many ways, it’s a tongue-in-cheek response to Porsche’s 911 Dakar and Lamborghini’s Huracán Sterrato—cars that have actually made the jump from supercar to sand slayer. Seeing BMW throw its hat in the imaginary off-road ring with a high-riding M2 is both hilarious and weirdly satisfying. And that’s what makes this April Fools’ joke sting a little. Because let’s be honest: we want this to exist. The M2’s short wheelbase, punchy engine, and agile chassis would make for a wicked rally toy if properly adapted. BMW M’s post even calls it “ready to tackle any challenge,” and judging by the internet’s reaction, the biggest challenge now is convincing BMW to build it.
While it’s nothing more than a brilliantly executed prank, the M2 Dakar has ignited something real—enthusiasm. Whether BMW takes that and runs with it remains to be seen. But for now, the M2 Dakar lives only in our hearts, on our feeds, and in the dusty corner of our imaginations where fantasy builds become fan favorites. [Photos: BMW M]
