BMW has officially
unveiled the 2019 M2 Competition. Looking instantly recognizable, the model
replaces the previous M2 Coupe and features a modestly revised front fascia
with a larger grille to help improve cooling. Additional styling changes are
limited but the car has aerodynamic mirror caps, a black chrome exhaust system
and restyled 19-inch wheels featuring Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.
The interior largely carries but there’s new M Sport
seats that feature an illuminated M2 logo on the backrest. Drivers will also
find a red push-button ignition and a sport steering wheel with M buttons which
can store custom performance settings. Other highlights include “M2
Competition” sill plates, Alcantara accents and special seat belts which have
BMW M stripes woven into them.
Bigger changes occur underneath the hood as the car
has a modified version of the twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that
resides in the M3 and M4. It produces 405 hp and 550 Nm of torque. When paired to the standard six-speed manual transmission,
the M2 Competition accelerates 0-96 km/h in 4.2 seconds. Buyers can also order
an optional seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox which cuts the 0-96 km/h time to
four seconds flat.
The model has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h but that can be increased to 280 km/h when
equipped with the optional M Driver’s Package.
In order to accommodate the new engine, the M2
Competition has the same cooling system as the M4 with the Competition Package.
It includes a central radiator, two side radiators and an additional engine oil
cooler. Models with the M DCT also receive a transmission oil cooler.
The performance features don’t stop there
as the M2 has a carbon fiber reinforced plastic strut tower brace, a revised
electromechanical power steering system and an “enhanced” Active M
Differential. The car has also has axles from the M3 and M4 as well as revised
suspension which uses forged aluminum components out back.
The braking system has also been improved on US-spec
models as there are larger discs that measure 400mm front and 380mm rear.
Engineers also installed six-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers
in the rear.
The BMW M2 Competition will be launched in the
United States this summer and pricing will be announced shortly before this
occurs.