The article was originally produced on April 25, 2016, some facts and prices may have changed since then.

BMW M2

Straight six with turbo, rear wheel drive and compact format is the recipe for maximum joy!

There is always someone special when a new M model is presented. So also this time when the BMW M2 rolls out of the factory in Munich. 

In 1972, BMW's board of directors decided to establish the subsidiary Motorsport GmbH, which would develop high-performance technology and take care of BMW's motorsport. First up was the 3.0 CSL model, which, among other things, gave BMW a series of victories in various European competitions. Currently, there are the models M3, M4, M4 Convertible, M5. M6, M6 Gran Coupé, M6 Convertible as well as X5 M and X6 M. There has also been an M1 and it was the first M model, not to be confused with the current 1 series. There was, however, an M version of the new previous 1-Series, but it was named 1M Coupé and that is the model the M2 replaces. The M cars are aimed at discerning customers who prioritize the highest quality and performance but also a dynamic driving experience at its best.

A lot of water has flown under the bridges since the first M model and many things have changed along the way. Among other things, they would never build any M models of the X cars, it was said. Which has now been done with both X5 and X6 as a basis. 

Even the option of equipping the M cars with a turbo was something that was absolutely not to be considered, they said, but it is today standard in all M models. 

The BMW M2 has a straight six-cylinder petrol engine of just under three litres, which with turbo delivers 370 horsepower to the rear tyres. 

You can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, although with a SEK 36,900 premium on the latter. 

In the test car we drive, the reptilian double-clutch box with paddles is on the steering wheel. Enough because it is traditionally sporty with a manual gearbox, but the comfort and safety of an automatic gearbox and paddles on the steering wheel cannot be denied. When you're going fast and the road is curvy, it's nice to have both hands firmly gripped around the steering wheel. The chairs in turn provide a firm grip on your body, with the help of a button on the side of the chair you can adjust how much the chair should tighten around the back. In the backrest, there is an M emblem embossed in the leather, framed by stylish blue stitching. The sporty impression is further enhanced by the carbon fiber panels around the cabin. 

For maximum dynamics, there are three different driving programs: Comfort, Sport and Sport+. The latter unleashes all the wildness in this compact and highly potent car. The car adjusts a lot of settings and turns into a perfect tool for the racetrack. When you then leave the track and select Comfort, the car becomes a long-distance missile ready to consume miles like small treats. 

Despite the fact that the M2 is relatively sparse on technology, nothing is really missing. A large screen for navigation and infotainment is easily controlled with a wheel in the center console between the seats. The top of the wheel also functions as a drawing pad that makes it possible to enter text and numbers with any finger. 

To really get the most out of track driving, there is an app where you can study your driving afterwards and share this on your social media. 

In terms of shape, the M2 feels more grown-up and complete than its predecessor, the 1M. Compared to the "regular" 2-series Coupé, the M2 is more thoroughbred with its fender flares and a cheeky air intake in the front. There is no doubt that it is a powerhouse that simply rolls. 0-100 is done in 4.3 seconds if you have chosen the dual clutch box. With a manual gearbox, the journey takes 4.5 seconds. The top speed is, as usual, electronically limited to 250 km/h. If you choose the optional M Driver Package, this figure increases to 270 km/h. The package also includes an instruction day at the race track. 

The BMW M2 is exactly everything you don't need, but at the same time exactly what makes the soul happy for the person sitting behind the wheel. Even as a passenger you get a big smile because the character of the car is really strong and joyful. BMW has always emphasized that it builds fun cars – the M2 is proof that it keeps its word.