Guide BMW M2 to the test: will you be able to honor its prestigious heritage?

The incredible M2 shows its strength in a new, bigger, more powerful and more modern version. A test in the heart of the South Carolina hills reveals its secrets.

Summary of technical specifications

The new 2024 BMW M2, with an entry price of $63,195, is proudly displayed due to its significantly increased size. Its six-cylinder twin-turbo S58 engine, borrowed from its big sisters M3 and M4, delivers an incredible 453 horsepower, propelling the beast from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than 4 seconds. , especially on the manual gear ratio, however, with all its power, this M2 promises a pleasant performance.

Analysis of driving dynamics: M2 G87 vs M2 F87

Compared to its predecessor, the M2 G87 model is 4.1 inches tall, 1.3 inches wide and slightly thinner. This change is linked to BMW abandoning its 1 Series platform, and moving to the CLAAR platform, which underpins the 3 Series through the X7. The result is a more luxurious car, almost identical to the M4 to the untrained eye.

The expansion is not only due to the external dimensions of the M2 itself but also the placement of the tires. A 2.1-inch longer wheelbase and wider track also contributed to this size change. Additionally, the new M2 is heavier than its predecessor, with a curb weight of 3,814 pounds.

Comparative driving experience of models

To evaluate performance, we alternately drove our 1M and the new M2. The feeling behind the wheel is very different, whether in terms of speed response or the tactile quality of the steering. Although the new M2 is more capable and structured, it is less fast than its predecessor, more closely resembling the experience offered by the M3 and M4.

At the same time, the manual transmission, although the same Getrag units, differed in their steps. The clutch on the 1M was a bit more precise for our liking while the gear changes on the M2 felt a little more difficult.

Experience in normal and on-road driving

Despite its high performance, the new M2 does not provide everyday comfort, and in fact, it is better. After returning from our trip to South Carolina, the new BMW M2 manual surprised us with its comfort and convenience, providing a more enjoyable everyday driving experience.

Inside, a large-screen dashboard makes it easy to navigate the many digital parameters. However, the carbon fiber bucket seat fitted to the test cars seemed less comfortable and less comfortable than conventional seats.

The new equation for M2 G87

The BMW M2 G87 strikes the perfect balance between performance and comfort, making it the best everyday car we’ve ever known. The more generous dimensions and more powerful engine mark a notable evolution compared to the legendary 1M, making it a car aimed at a different target. It’s a compact sedan with more features for daily driving that its predecessor couldn’t achieve. The BMW M2 G87 is clearly a car that does what most people want best.