The new BMW M2 performance coupe will be more powerful than any version of its predecessor, according to leaked confidential documents.
The 2023 BMW M2 will be the most powerful “baby” BMW M car ever built when it is revealed next month, a leaked internal document suggests.
A confidential BMW bulletin posted on the BimmerPost forum indicates the new M2’s 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine (shared with the larger M3 and M4) will produce 338kW in standard form.
This represents a 7kW increase compared to the most potent version of the outgoing M2 (the 331kW/550Nm CS), but 15kW less than the ‘base’ variants of the M3 and M4.
A torque output from the M2 is not quoted, though given the base M3/M4 and previous M2 CS both developed 550Nm, that figure seems likely for the new “baby” BMW M car.
Power will be sent to the rear wheels through a choice of six-speed manual or eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmissions, BMW has already confirmed.
After production of the standard BMW M2 begins this December, rumours suggest a higher-performance Competition model is in the works, while UK magazine Autocar claims a 350kW M2 CS or CSL is also planned. Neither of these reports have been confirmed.
As previously reported by Drive, the new M2 will be the last newly-launched BMW M car – excluding facelifts or model-year updates – without electrification. Future models are expected to adopt mild-hybrid technology, plug-in hybrid assistance, or be fully electric.
Under the skin, highlights include 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels, large performance brakes from the M4, available Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 track tyres, and an optional carbon-fibre roof.
The exterior is in line for a visual upgrade – with wider wheel arches, new front and rear bumpers, and quad exhaust outlets – while inside the M2 will offer the twin-screen iDrive 8 dashboard from BMW’s latest cars, and a choice of standard M sports seats or lightweight M Carbon bucket seats.
The 2023 BMW M2 will be revealed sometime next month, with reports pointing to a debut on the 12th of October. Stay tuned to Drive for more news as the unveiling approaches.
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