XCAR UK takes a close look at the all-new BMW M2. And they got to make it sing. The video below takes us in and around the new M2, giving us a closer look at its design details, and premium and sporty materials.
When the BMW M235i debuted, it was rejoiced as sort of savior for BMW, as it seemed like BMW was getting back to its roots. A small, rear-wheel drive coupe with a straight-six engine and the option of a six-speed manual. It felt more BMW-y than every other BMW. But it was never a proper M car, it never had the magic that M3s of yore had.
That changes when BMW has created a proper M version, the M2.
The new BMW M2 is a looker. This could be BMW’s best looking car when it debuts next year. The M2 looks muscular, but not overdone, aggressive but not flashy. It could also be the best proportioned M car since the E46 M3. The fenders flare out a bit, to give the M2 a more muscular stance, but they do so subtly without looking like a boy-racer. It’s not overdone, like some say the M3 is, it looks just right and could be BMW’s best looking car. BMW says the fenders were extended 55 mm at the front and 80 mm at the rear.
The design also incorporates so many BMW design cues from both its road cars and its Motorsport history. The three-dimensional design of the grille has a “shark nose” feel to it. The modern take on the BMW twin circular headlights (here in xenon form) underlines the car’s forward-surging look and establishes a close stylistic connection with the grille. This further sharpens the focus of the new BMW M2 on the road ahead. The large front apron with trapezoidal blades and the Air Curtains in the outer air intakes recall the type of protruding spoilers that have been a familiar sight in motor sport down the years. For the BMW M2 they were inspired in particular by the BMW 3.0 CSL touring car racer.
BMW even added a round gas door, a nice touch if you ask us.
The cabin is fitted with a host of BMW M-specific equipment details – Sports seats, in black Dakota leather with blue contrast stitching and an M logo in the backrests, an M footrest and knee pad on the center console and instruments with BMW M2-specific dials and needles. Familiar M equipment items in the new BMW M2 Coupe also include M logos on the rev counter, gearshift lever, door sill plates and M leather steering wheel with shift paddles. Other highlights of the interior are the new BMW M2 trim strip with surfacing in porous carbon fiber and Alcantara for the door cards and parking brake lever gaiter.
The new BMW M2 is available in four exterior paint finishes – Long Beach Blue metallic, Alpine White, Black Sapphire and Mineral Grey.
First test drives are scheduled for early next year, while the M2 world debut will take place on January 9th at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show.
