Latest news with #M2
Miami Herald
3 hours ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Best and Worst Gear Shift Knobs in 2025
The automotive world is in a perpetual state of transformation, and while innovations in electrification, infotainment, and autonomous driving seem to get the most attention, it's the once lowly shift knob that deserves its time in the sun. In 2025, the shift knob remains a tactile link between driver and machine for those who favor engagement over automation. Whether it's the engagement of a traditional manual shift knob or the action and ease of a fancy automatic version, the design, feel, and function of a shift knob can significantly enhance or sully the driving experience. We considered ergonomics, materials, intuitiveness, and aesthetics to determine the standouts and the disappointments and rounded up the best and worst shift knobs currently found in new vehicles across the market, manual or automatic. 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera T (manual) Porsche is pulling back on electrification (again), so this is a good time to focus on what the automaker does best: perfecting its analog driving experience. The 911 Carrera T features a 6-speed manual shift knob that is nothing short of a masterpiece. Crafted from real walnut, the knob is beautiful, rounded, properly short, and precisely weighted to maximize performance driving. Its simplicity contrasts with the high-tech nature of the rest of the cockpit, making it a purist's delight. Porsche knows its audience, and it delivers. 2025 Honda Civic Type R (manual) Honda continues to prove that affordable performance doesn't mean sacrificing driving enjoyment. The 2025 Civic Type R features a beautifully machined, teardrop-shaped 6-speed manual aluminum shift knob that's cool to the touch and satisfies with every snikt-snikt shift. The throw is short and mechanical, while the red-stitched leather shift boot and manual gear diagram etched on the top add a layer of visual flair. Sure, the metal knob gets cold in winter, but that's what gloves are for. 2025BMW M2 (manual) BMW may be going electric in a big way, but the M2 continues to cater to enthusiasts with a fantastic 6-speed manual. The shift knob is traditionally shaped and great in the hand, topped with the classic M logo. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sportiness, and the mechanical feel of the shifts is among the best in the business. 2025 Volvo XC90 (automatic) The XC90 is a beautiful premium SUV that was recently refreshed with a new grille and a bigger and better infotainment screen. We're just happy that the Orrefors Crystal shift knob is still available because it's a stunner. The angled crystal shifter plays with sunlight and feels wonderful in the hand. Simple pushes forward and back engage the proper gear, and you'll find that your hand (and your eyes) will return to it over and over again, even when you're not shifting. 2025 Audi Q8 (automatic) Audi interiors are in need of an update, especially when it comes to infotainment, but its automatic shift knobs are excellent. The one in the Q8 (as well as other models) is wide, low, flat, and wonderful to both look at and hold. The aluminum and leather materials are second-to-none, and the action tilts and clicks with authority. We hope the brand keeps this shifter as it moves towards more updated cabins. 2025 Honda CR-V (automatic) Less of a shift knob and more a row of awkward buttons, the shifting setup in the Honda CR-V isn't great to use. Whoever thought buttons would be intuitive and quick to operate never actually had to live with them on a regular basis. Yes, the drive button is recessed and angled, so it's more difficult to press it accidentally, but more often than not, you find yourself having to look at what you're doing. It's not just in the CR-V, but also in the Odyssey, Pilot, and the new Passport. It somehow seems to have escaped the Civic, Accord, and HR-V. 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV (single-speed direct drive) The 2025 Blazer EV is impressive in its styling, efficiency, and power. The problem is that it features a steering column-mounted stalk gear selector that's easy to mistake for a wiper stalk. While this might seem like a logical solution, it takes a lot of getting used to. It's not like the old school column shifters that required a significant pull forward to move it up or down. At least you do have to pull it slightly to put it in drive or reverse, but that doesn't prevent the driver from mistaking it for another operation. Add to that a plasticky finish, and it feels more rental car than premium EV. 2025 Lexus NX (continuously variable automatic) We love Lexus interiors. They're properly modern, they use great materials, and they're usually easy to operate. Their ubiquitous shift knob, however, is less than desirable in its operation. It looks good because it's ergonomic and compact, but it seems inconsistent. When we used it to execute a three-point turn, it didn't seem to recognize that we were pressing the brake pedal to shift, and it would tell us so... about 50 percent of the time. It feels disconnected because there's virtually no sense of action or tactility. The shifter shows up in numerous models, but the IS sedan and GX SUV escaped it for a traditional version that's much better to use. 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 (single-speed direct drive) While we love the unique exterior styling and the handsome interior of the Hyundai IONIQ 6, the column-mounted shifter is insufferable. It wouldn't be so bad if it weren't so hard to see, but it's too far down at the 4 o'clock position in relation to the steering wheel. Even after you get used to it, there's still a smidge of insecurity about using it without looking, not a great feature of something that determines if you're going forward or in reverse. The same shifter is on the IONIQ 5, and that's too bad. It feels like a misstep in an otherwise well-designed cabin. 2025 Genesis GV70 (automatic) We hate putting the GV70's crystalline rotary shifting beauty on this list of worst shift knobs because it both looks and feels amazing. It's not that it doesn't work well, but it's just a couple of inches aft of the infotainment control knob and directly in line with it, making the rotary shift knob too easy to grab while trying to operate the wrong function. In an effort to rethink the humble shift knob, automakers have devised some truly novel approaches to changing gears, but not all of them are well-executed. The ones on this list that rise to the top are more traditional, while the worst ones feel either overwrought or half-baked. Whether you're a purist who relishes the feel of a well-weighted manual gear lever or a daily commuter who just wants a functional and ergonomic solution, it's clear that not all shift knobs are created equal. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Al Bawaba
a day ago
- Automotive
- Al Bawaba
The New BMW M2 CS: The Next Chapter In an Emphatic Success Story
The new BMW M2 CS further raises the bar for sheer driving pleasure at the premium end of the compact high-performance sports car segment. Outstanding agility, a significant increase in power output, supreme dynamics and particularly sporty design characteristics make driving the latest exclusive special-edition model from BMW M GmbH an enthralling experience. The new BMW M2 CS is the next chapter in an emphatic success story, which began with the iconic BMW 2002 turbo and continued with the BMW 1 Series M Coupé and the first BMW M2 – including the first CS variant, which was unveiled in 2019. BMW M GmbH offered a first glimpse of the exterior design of the BMW M2 CS on 23 May, as part of the unique Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este event on the shores of Lake Como. The new version of this special edition offers the ultimate in driving pleasure – both as a track tool and in day-to-day use. Like the BMW M2 Racing, which is based on the chassis from the latest generation M2, the BMW M2 CS will be manufactured at BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí in Mexico. As has become familiar with other special-edition models from BMW M GmbH, the BMW M2 CS will be produced in limited numbers. The new BMW M2 CS is based on the second generation of the BMW M2 and significantly improves what is already an extraordinary level of performance. For example, the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops an impressive 530 hp in the BMW M2 CS. That is 50 hp more than in the current BMW M2. As such, the BMW M2 CS matches the performance of the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and the BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. The BMW M2 CS sends its power to the rear wheels via the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which comes as standard. Noticeable weight reduction thanks to intelligent lightweight design BMW M GmbH has reduced the weight of the special edition by roughly 30 kilograms compared to the standard M2. This has been achieved through modifications including judicious use of lightweight design techniques. For example, the BMW M2 CS features a multitude of exterior and interior components made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). And it will be fitted as standard with forged M light-alloy wheels. As a result, the CS will be the lightest BMW M2 so far in the current generation. Upgraded six-cylinder in-line engine with significant increase in power output and torque For the BMW M2 CS, BMW M GmbH has opted for an upgraded version of the 3.0-litre, six-cylinder in-line engine found in the standard M2. This intensifies the performance experience in the special edition, particularly in highly dynamic driving situations. It further sharpens the engine's unmistakable power characteristics and perfectly accentuates the linear power delivery – sustained into the higher reaches of the rev range – familiar from M models. Compared to the BMW M2 with standard eight speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, maximum torque has been raised by 50 Nm to 650 Nm and is available across a broad rev range – between 2,650 and 5,730 rpm. The engine produces its maximum power output of 530 hp at 6,250 rpm, with the engine speed topping out at 7,200 rpm. In order to allow extremely rapid reactions to the driver's requests for acceleration and to make the improved performance characteristics of the engine a particularly intense experience, the accelerator mapping and response have been optimised in all the drive modes, which are selectable via the M Setup menu. Racing expertise delivers inspiring performance With its improved peak performance, the new BMW M2 CS is consolidating its claim to top spot in the compact high-performance segment. This performance specification is achieved by modifying the engine management and provides further proof of the outstanding potential of the six-cylinder in-line engine developed by BMW M GmbH, which also serves as the basis for the power unit used in the BMW M4 GT3 EVO racing car. The engine's M TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a pair of mono-scroll turbochargers, which each supply three cylinders with compressed air, an indirect intercooler supplied by a low-temperature circuit, and an electronically controlled wastegate. The technology package also includes High Precision Injection, which operates with maximum pressure of 350 bar, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing. The engine also has an array of details borrowed directly from racing car design, including its lightning-fast response, appetite for revs and high-performance capability in track use. These details include an extremely rigid crankcase with a sleeve-free, closeddeck construction, a forged crankshaft with lightweight design, cylinder bores with a wire-arc sprayed iron coating and a 3D-printed core for the cylinder head. The M-specific cooling system ensures the powertrain components maintain an optimal operating temperature even under heavy loads and the oil circuit is designed to handle extreme dynamic driving situations. A map-controlled oil pump ensures reliable oil supply even under extreme acceleration. The engine sends its drive power through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard. The Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever makes it possible to alter the transmission's shift characteristics, with a choice of three clearly distinguishable settings. Both the selector lever in the latest M design and the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel enable sequential interventions in the gear selection process at any time. BMW M2 CS breaks the four-second barrier A model-specific engine mounting with a higher spring rate makes for a particularly rigid connection of the drive unit to the structure of the BMW M2 CS. The extremely direct transmission of power to the drivetrain optimises response. Thanks to the lightning-fast power delivery, in combination with the increased engine power and the car's lighter weight, the BMW M2 CS is able to break the four-second barrier for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. It's time of 3.8 seconds is 0.2 seconds faster than for the standard M2. The figure calculated using the '1-foot rollout' method is 3.5 seconds. The increase in power also enhances acceleration from rest to 200 km/h. The time required here is reduced by 1.2 seconds to 11.7 seconds – or 11.4 seconds according to the '1-foot rollout' method. The mid-range sprint from 80 to 120 km/h takes 3.4 seconds. The top speed of the special-edition model, which comes with the M Driver's Package as standard, is electronically limited to 302 km/h. The dynamic power delivery is backed by an emotionally rich engine note conjured by the M-specific exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps and the four exhaust pipes typical of M, which come in matt black on the BMW M2 CS. For those wishing to retrofit their car, the M Performance silencer system with carbon and titanium tailpipe trims developed specifically for CS models is available for the first time in the range of M Performance Parts for the BMW M2 CS. The lightweight valve exhaust system with titanium mufflers generates a racing-car sound guaranteed to stir the emotions. The Active Sound Design helps to convey the engine's soundtrack authentically inside the cabin, with the intensity raised another notch when SPORT or SPORT PLUS mode is selected using the Driving Experience Control switch. Chassis and brakes optimised for increased performance The chassis technology and braking system in the BMW M2 CS are precisely tailored to the improved performance characteristics of the engine and the specific weight balance of the special edition. The chassis has been lowered by eight millimetres and adapted specially for the car with bespoke tuning for its springs, dampers and chassis control systems. These modifications improve driving dynamics significantly in all scenarios – including under extremely hard driving. Indeed, the settings for the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and M Dynamic Mode have been optimised precisely to meet the demands of driving on the race track. The standard adaptive M chassis has been given a carefully adapted model-specific setup, as have the M Servotronic steering, M Sport differential and the integrated braking system. An M Compound braking system with red brake callipers, which comes as standard, provides powerful retardation. An M Carbon ceramic brake system with red brake callipers is available as an option. Standard equipment also includes CS-exclusive forged M light-alloy wheels with a double-spoke design and matt Gold Bronze finish. They measure 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear axle and are fitted as standard with track tyres, the dimensions of which are 275/35 ZR19 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear. An ultra-track tyre and a standard sport tyre (a no-cost option) in the same dimensions are available on request. Exterior features many carbon components and exclusive details The punchy exterior of the BMW M2 CS is shaped by many components made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and other exclusive details. As well as the M exterior mirror caps familiar from the BMW M2, the M Carbon roof – which comes as standard on the special-edition model – and CS-specific rear diffusor are also made from eye-catching exposed carbon fibre. A front splitter in matt black and an exclusive black BMW M kidney grille with optimised air inlets complete the sporty and dynamic look. The lightweight CFRP boot lid with integrated ducktail is a real head-turner. The 'M2 CS' logo on the rear has a red outline. Four colours are available for the exterior finish of the new BMW M2 CS: Sapphire Black metallic, BMW Individual Velvet Blue metallic, M Brooklyn Grey metallic and M Portimao Blue metallic. Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling High Beam Assistant and M lights Shadowline with dark inlays are also standard. Carbon and racing flair continue inside The interior of the new BMW M2 CS combines an exclusive look with the sporty feel of exquisite Alcantara and innovative lightweight design. For example, the centre console is made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The driver and passenger take their places in weight-optimised, heated M Carbon bucket seats with a wide range of electrically controlled settings and an illuminated 'CS' integrated head restraints are removable and, thanks to the option of integrating multi-point harnesses, improve the car's track readiness. The surfaces of the seats are finished in Merino leather. With a flat-bottomed rim, gearshift paddles, a red centre marker at 12 o'clock and two M buttons for selecting individually configured vehicle setups, the standard M Alcantara steering wheel – which is available in a heated version as an option and features a three-spoke design – brings authentic racing flair to the cockpit. The trim elements in the instrument panel and centre console come in M Carbon Fibre. Additional specific details include the red 'CS' logo on the centre console, the M seatbelts and the entry door sill plates, which are black with an 'M2 CS' logo and red outline for the first time. Now illuminated with the 'CS' logo, the door trim panels certainly grab the attention. BMW Operating System 8.5, digital control for the climate functions Standard equipment in the new BMW M2 CS also includes two-zone automatic climate control, comfort access, the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and BMW Live Cockpit Professional, including the BMW Maps navigation system. As well as the BMW Head-Up Display, it also includes Augmented View on the control display. The standard smartphone integration allows the use of Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The M-specific displays on the BMW Curved Display and BMW Head-Up Display add to the progressive sports car flair in the cockpit. The fully-digital display grouping consists of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display. These serve as a platform for the BMW iDrive control and operation system, based on BMW Operating System 8.5, which can also be used to digitally operate the climate control functions. In the BMW M2 CS, temperature and ventilation settings, heated seats and the heated steering wheel (if specified) can be controlled either by touch using a special menu option in the lower area of the control display or by voice command with the help of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. M-specific operating concept enables direct access for an extensive range of functions The special-edition model carries over the cutting-edge operating concept for setup customisation from the BMW M2. At the heart is the Setup button on the centre console. This provides direct access to the settings options for the engine, standard adaptive M suspension, M Servotronic steering, integrated braking system working in conjunction with the M Compound brakes, and the M Traction Control function, which allows drivers to set individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation. M Drive Professional makes an ideal companion for journeys fuelled by extra adrenaline. The M mode TRACK and the ten-stage M Traction Control allow customised handling characteristics. The M Drift Analyser shows the angle and duration of drifts executed by the driver, while the M Laptimer is ideal for those striving for the perfect lap. Semi-automated driving and parking systems fitted as standard include front collision warning, Cruise Control with brake function, Speed Limit Info function with no-overtaking indicator, Lane Departure Warning, and the Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant. Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function and the Driving Assistant can be added as optional equipment.
Man of Many
a day ago
- Automotive
- Man of Many
2026 BWM M2 CS Price and Specs Revealed for Australia
By Somnath Chatterjee - News Published: 30 May 2025 Share Copy Link Readtime: 4 min Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more. For more information on how we test products, click here. Hardcore M2 CS will set you back by AUD$172,900 before on-road costs Coming to Australia in Q4, 2025 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six now makes 390 kW (530 hp) and 650 Nm CS is lighter than the standard M2 by 30 kilograms Non-limited vehicle, deliveries are slated to start by the end of the year The 'CS' badge (Competition Sport) is a hallowed moniker that is not applied to any old BMW. No, the badge is kept for the flagship vehicles and is typically released alongside a power upgrade, aerodynamic changes, and lightweight packages. Now, the latest generation of the M2 has been given just that, signifying how the smallest M car has now grown up. The good news here, and there is plenty, with the 2026 BMW M2 CS is now nearly as powerful as the M4 CS. Under the bonnet, the 3.0-litre in-line 6-cylinder engine has been overhauled to develop an additional 37kW of power and 50Nm of torque over the standard M2, bringing power to 390kW. Hence, the baby M car now knocks at the door of its bigger M3 and M4 siblings. With the power upgrade, the 2026 BMW M2 CS will now accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds faster than the standard BMW M2 Coupe. Even more significant is the acceleration from 0-200 km/h, where the M2 CS gains a 1.2-second advantage over the standard model before going on to a top speed of 302 km/h. 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied Those are serious numbers, and the engine also gets an M-specific cooling system as well as a map-controlled oil pump. The motor is very close to that of the M4 GT3 EVO. While it sounds overwhelming, the basics are clear as it remains a proper RWD tyre shredder with an 8-speed automatic as standard, as the CS will not come with a manual transmission. However, unlike the Nissan Z NISMO, the M2 was sent to the gym and it has shed approximately 30 kilograms thanks to the generous use of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) as well as forged M light-alloy wheels. Speaking of which, the M2 CS has not been given an extreme makeover, but it did not need it anyway, while some trademark CS styling elements have been carefully poured over here. There is a lot of carbon as standard, including the roof, as well as contrast black painted elements like the front splitter and the grille. At the rear, the boot is now made from lightweight CFRP, along with an integrated ducktail and model designation badge affixed to the rear, which has a red outline. 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied Look inside, and the 2026 BMW M2 CS is a serious place to drive fast, and weight has been stripped away here too with motorsport-inspired Alcantara, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic centre console and of course, heated M Carbon bucket seats with electric adjustment. CS owners who want to take their garage queen to the track will be able to add a multi-point harness since the integrated head restraints are removable. Elsewhere, there is a standard M Alcantara steering wheel which features a flat-bottomed rim, gearshift paddles and a red centre marker at 12 o'clock plus two M buttons. Just in case owners forget what their new ride is, there are CS logos scattered everywhere, including on the centre console, door sill and even on the door panel. If you want to get your hands on all of this goodness, then you'll have to front up some serious coin because the new M2 CS is priced from AUD$172,900 before on-road costs. That's a hefty AUD$46,600 over the standard BMW M2. However, unlike the previous M2 CS, this will not be a limited edition, but BMW will not make them for long, though. The lucky buyers in Australia can select from four paint options: Black Sapphire metallic, BMW Individual Velvet Blue metallic, M Brooklyn Grey metallic and M Portimao Blue metallic. More information about the M2 CS can be found at the brand's website linked below. 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied 2026 BMW M2 CS | Image: BMW / Supplied
The Sun
a day ago
- Automotive
- The Sun
BMW unveils new M2 CS
BMW has officially revealed its latest high-performance compact coupé, the BMW M2 CS, a limited-edition model that represents the pinnacle of driving pleasure both on track and public roads. Production will take place at the BMW Group Plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, with a global market rollout scheduled for late summer 2025. Key markets include the United States, Germany, and China. In Germany, the M2 CS is priced at €115,000 (RM553,035). The M2 CS is based on the second-generation BMW M2 but significantly enhances the car's dynamic capabilities. Its heart is a reworked 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology. This upgraded powerplant delivers 530hp, 50hp more than the standard M2, matching the output of the BMW M3 Competition Sedan and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with xDrive. Torque has also been increased to 650Nm, available between 2,650 and 5,730 rpm. The engine revs to 7,200 rpm and delivers peak power at 6,250 rpm. The power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which allows the driver to adjust shift characteristics using three settings. Gear changes can also be manually controlled through the steering wheel-mounted paddles or the newly styled M selector lever. Performance metrics place the M2 CS among the fastest in its segment. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 11.7 seconds. A figure of 3.5 seconds to 100 km/h is achievable using the 1-foot rollout method. Mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h takes only 3.4 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 302 km/h, courtesy of the standard M Driver's Package. Weight has been reduced by approximately 30kg compared to the regular M2, thanks to the strategic use of lightweight materials such as carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Components, including the roof, boot lid, front splitter, rear diffuser, and centre console, are crafted from CFRP, enhancing both performance and aesthetics. Forged M light-alloy wheels come as standard, with track tyres fitted—19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. Buyers can opt for either ultra-track or sport tyres at no extra cost. The M2 CS is equipped with a model-specific engine mount offering higher stiffness, resulting in better throttle response and more direct power delivery. The M-specific cooling system ensures optimal thermal performance during spirited driving, and the dry-sump oiling system guarantees consistent lubrication even under extreme G-forces. To complement the powertrain, BMW M has overhauled the chassis. The adaptive M suspension features bespoke tuning for springs, dampers, and electronic control systems, with the ride height lowered by eight millimetres. The M Servotronic steering and M Sport differential have also been calibrated specifically for the CS model. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and M Dynamic Mode have been refined to optimise the car's capabilities on track. Braking is handled by the standard M Compound system with red callipers, while an M Carbon ceramic setup is available as an option. The CS rides on exclusive forged M wheels in a striking Gold Bronze finish. These not only reduce unsprung weight but also contribute to the car's distinctive appearance. The exterior design is aggressive and purposeful. In addition to the CFRP elements, the M2 CS features a unique black M kidney grille, black front splitter, and an exposed carbon-fibre roof. The rear is distinguished by a ducktail-style spoiler and quad matt-black exhaust tips. Available exterior colours include Sapphire Black metallic, BMW Individual Velvet Blue metallic, M Brooklyn Grey metallic, and M Portimao Blue metallic. Standard adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam and M Shadowline detailing add to the visual drama. Inside, the cockpit continues the theme of motorsport-inspired design. Heated M Carbon bucket seats with Merino leather upholstery offer extensive electric adjustments and integrate removable head restraints to accommodate multi-point harnesses. The centre console is made from CFRP, while the M Alcantara steering wheel—featuring a flat-bottom rim, red centre marker, and M buttons–enhances the racing ambience. Interior details specific to the CS model include red-accented 'CS' logos on the seats, centre console, and illuminated door sills. M seatbelts, ambient lighting with customisable colours, and an M Anthracite headliner complete the premium, performance-focused cabin. The digital experience is powered by BMW Operating System 8.5. A fully digital BMW Curved Display comprises a 12.3-inch information cluster and a 14.9-inch control screen. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional is standard and includes BMW Maps navigation, a head-up display, augmented view, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, and a Harman Kardon sound system are also part of the standard equipment. For those seeking an even more visceral soundtrack, BMW offers an optional M Performance titanium exhaust system with carbon-fibre tailpipes. Designed specifically for the CS, it delivers an authentic racing note, complemented by an Active Sound Design feature that enhances interior acoustics based on selected drive modes. In summary, the new BMW M2 CS stands as the ultimate expression of the compact M car formula. With a blend of cutting-edge performance, reduced weight, and high-end features, it promises to set a new benchmark in the segment for driving purists and track-day enthusiasts alike.
Gulf Insider
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Gulf Insider
BMW M2: Review of a Compact Powerhouse in Bahrain
The BMW M2 stays true to the brand's identity. Even with changes in design over time, there's something instantly recognisable about the marque's DNA. The latest version brings a few design updates while keeping the strong performance and character that define the M series. The facelift is minor but definitely worth noticing. A large front vent, paired with two functional side intakes, gives the car a more aggressive look. The shape remains compact and purposeful, with extended side skirts, wide wheel arches, and staggered alloy wheels – 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear. Red brake callipers and M-style mirrors complete the car's bold appearance. Inside, the M2 feels every bit like a driver's car. M-colour details appear across the cabin, from the stitching and the doors to the steering wheel and the seat belts. Two digital displays provide a modern, clean interface for driving data and controls. The optional M Carbon bucket seats are built for performance but offer enough comfort for daily use. They provide strong support and are compatible with multi-point harnesses, making them suitable for track days as well as regular driving. The M2 is powered by a 3.0-litre M TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine that produces 480 hp and 600 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds when paired with the M Steptronic transmission. For driving enthusiasts looking for the stick-shift thrill, a 6-speed manual gearbox is also available, which adds a more connected feel behind the wheel. With rear-wheel drive, Adaptive M Suspension, and an Active M Differential, the M2 offers sharp handling and excellent road feedback. It's engineered to deliver a responsive and engaging driving experience. The BMW M2 is compact, powerful, and full of character. It delivers performance that's easy to enjoy on both city roads and open highways. For those in Bahrain looking for a high-performance coupe with real presence and precision, the M2 is a strong and stylish option. To learn more about the BMW M2, contact Euro Motors on +973 17750750 or visit the dealership in Manama.
