BMW M2 2016 Review

The BMW M2 is the halo model in the brand’s popularity-gaining 2-Series line-up and targets a very specific niche in the market. While the figures residing on its spec sheet would suggest a number of potential rivals - such as the Audi RS3 and the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG-, the fact of the matter is that the M2 is the only contender in its segment; the default winner, if you please.

You might also be interested in: BMW F22 Eurofighter whips out 820 horsepower

Exterior

The BMW M2 is the embodiment of immense power and an unadulterated driving experience. Its broad stance and butch exterior, connote the power that lies within and is complemented by the gaping air inlets and aerodynamic gashes that adorn the bodywork. The pint-sized offering, with its 19-inch alloys, aggressive rear diffuser, quad tail pipes, and drilled rotors, could well be crowned the ultimate pocket rocket.

Interior

Within the cabin, the BMW M2’s devotion to performance is evident and one that adds a significant amount of character. The extensive use of carbon fiber and Alcantara, is accompanied by a generous splash of ‘M’ badges and Azure stitching that envelopes the cabin. The stocky steering wheel and speedometer that tops out at 300km/h, work as constant reminders of the M2’s standing.

You might also be interested in: BMW 7 Series 2016 Review

Safety & Features

Though dedicated to offering a thrilling experience behind the wheel, the BMW M2 doesn’t skimp on comfort, safety, and entertainment features. Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming, a Forward Collision Warning alert, Pedestrian Alert, and Lane Departure Warning system, are all present and work in absolute harmony. In addition to a speed limiter and cruise control, there’s also a stunning 8.8-inch display atop the dashboard and a booming 12 speaker, 360 Watt Harman/Kardon sound system.

Drive

A push of the engine starter button, a burble of the exhaust, and the driver is granted an on the spot ticket to driving nirvana. With a whopping 370 horsepower being directed to the rear wheels placed on a lightweight rear axle, the M2 flaunts a jaw dropping power to weight ratio of 0.1068 horsepower / pound – a figure that is on par with brutish American sedans such as the Cadillac CTS-V.

With the accelerator pedal mashed to the floor, the little Bimmer shimmies in search of traction before charging towards the 100km/h mark in 4.3 seconds and on to a top speed of 250 km/h. Mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the M2 begs to be driven at the limit, and should the temptation get too strong to resist, there’s always the 380mm and 370mm compound brake discs at the front and rear, to count on. 

The stiff suspension set-up, though a tad uncomfortable within city limits, does a phenomenal job at curbing body roll and is an ideal match for the lenient traction control system in M Dynamic Mode. When driven sensibly, the BMW M2 suppresses its drinking problem under a practical façade to sip just 8 liters of gasoline for every 100 kilometers.

Verdict

Though the BMW M2’s power could well be benchmarked against the likes of the Audi RS3 and Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, there stands an impending issue to hand. While the aforementioned rivals direct their grunt to all four corners, the M2 sticks to a more traditional rear-wheel-drive layout, and when carrying out an objective comparison, that simply goes against the rules.  

So, is the BMW M2 2016 virtually rival-free? Yes, because as it stands, there is nothing that comes close and simply no better way to spend AED 305,000. 

Pros:

Phenomenal power delivery

Truly exhilarating drive

Operatic exhaust note

Cons:

A surprising amount of hard plastic around the cabin

Suspension could get a little too harsh for daily driving

Also see:

BMW 8 Series set to arrive before 2020

BMW and Toyota to produce joint sports car