Latest news with #MPerformance
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The 2026 BMW M2 CS Just Decimated The Audi RS3's Nürburgring Record
The 2026 BMW M2 CS Just Decimated The Audi RS3's Nürburgring Record originally appeared on Autoblog. There's been a bit of back and forth between Audi and BMW at the Nürburgring of late. In 2021, the 8Y Audi RS3 set a time around the Nordschleife of 7:40.748, earning it the title of the fastest compact car on the 'Ring. In 2023, the G87 BMW M2 stole the record with a time of 7:38.706 on the 12.944-mile route, so last year, the revised 2025 RS3 went back to the Nordschleife. It smashed the Bimmer's time by over five seconds, posting a time of 7:33.123, and the Bavarians simply couldn't let that slide. "You beat us by five seconds? Fine - we'll beat you by eight," said BMW. It took a special model to achieve, but the 2026 M2 CS has now reset the record at 7:25.5, achieving the first sub-7:30 time for a compact car. You can watch that astonishing lap at the bottom of this article. This lap time is some 13 seconds quicker than the one set by the normal M2 back in April 2023, but all that matters to BMW is that all its current CS models have dipped below 7:30, including the M4 CS, M3 CS (sedan, a time with the wagon has not been posted), and M4 CSL. For the record, the latter is the quickest BMW Group production car with a time of 7:18.137. With over 70 bends, changing camber profiles, and varying surfaces on the track, one cannot simply attribute the record to more power, but also to enhanced suspension and grippier rubber. Still, there's no doubt that a jump from 473 horsepower to 523 helped. The only drawback? All that power means the M2 CS isn't available with a manual transmission. Then again, no Audi is. The M2 CS is some 66 lbs lighter than the car upon which it is based, and it's got 129 horsepower more than the RS3. For Audi to reclaim the record would likely require a very focused and heavily upgraded car, and as a four-door hatch/sedan, the RS3 might be a tough sell with more track focus. Then again, it's not unlike Ingolstadt to celebrate the end of an era, and with the five-cylinder engine now only available in the RS3 after the TT RS departed, it's not unimaginable to think that a limited-run RS3 with no rear seats, a bigger turbo, and some specially developed rubber could be created to say goodbye to an icon. There are rumblings that the TT will return at some stage, and its smaller footprint could give the M2 CS something to worry about, but that will take a couple of years to come to fruition, if it ever does, so BMW's record will likely be safe for a long time to come. The 2026 BMW M2 CS Just Decimated The Audi RS3's Nürburgring Record first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 3, 2025 This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 3, 2025, where it first appeared.
Car and Driver
26-06-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2027 BMW M3: What We Know So Far
Overview The BMW M3 has been a sports sedan benchmark for nearly four decades, and its next-generation—expected to arrive for the 2027 model year—will bring big changes to the muscled-up 3er. For years, it has been speculated that the next M3 will be electric, and it now seems that those rumors are at least partially true. While details about the powertrain and underlying platform are sparse, an electric M3 is guaranteed. BMW has also confirmed that it hasn't given up on internal combustion engines, so it is reasonable to expect that there will also be a high-powered gas variant of the new car. The 2027 M3 will be built on a new vehicle architecture that will also underpin the standard models in the upcoming 3-series lineup, which are also expected to arrive for the 2027 model year. BMW gave us a peek at the potential styling direction for the new 3-series with the retro-futuristic Vision Neue Klasse EV concept in 2023, and the M3 will incorporate elements of that as well—albeit with more aggressive bodywork, in typical M3 fashion. It remains to be seen if both gas and electric variants will be available at launch or just the EV. But with BMW promising to 'set new standards' with the 2027 M3, it will undoubtedly provide acceleration that draws blood to the back of your brain, regardless of the powertrain. What's New for 2027? The BMW M3 will enter a new generation for the 2027 model year. The extensive rework represents a paradigm shift for the M3, which will offer an electric powertrain for the first time. Recent spy photos have shown a heavily camouflaged next-gen 3-series test mule with quad tailpipes, suggesting that a gas variant of the M3 is likely to exist alongside the EV. As with the standard 3-series, BMW has kept the M3 largely under wraps, only recently releasing photos of the EV M3 enveloped in M-print digital camouflage. Despite the disguise, it is clear that the new M3 sports wide fenders, aggressive front and rear bumpers, and large disc brakes—features shared with every M3 before it. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2027 BMW M3 is expected to start around $80,000 and go up to $90,000 depending on the trim and options. M3 $80,000 (est) M3 EV $90,000 (est) 0 $25k $50k $75k $100k $125k $150k While only the electric variant of the new M3 has been confirmed, it will likely be joined by a gas variant at some point. BMW hasn't released any pricing or equipment details for the M3 yet, so we're just guessing on the price points for now. Presumably, the new M3 will be more expensive than the outgoing model and the new electric variant will be significantly more costly than the gas version. We'll update this story once we have new information—pricing or otherwise. As more information becomes available, we'll update this story with more details about:
Top Gear
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- Top Gear
This new straight-six BMW 540i honours the old E34 540i, and now we want an E34
This new straight-six BMW 540i honours the old E34 540i, and now we want an E34 BMW Canada reveals limited-run G60… but parks it next to a stone-cold classic Skip 11 photos in the image carousel and continue reading Turn on Javascript to see all the available pictures. 1 / 11 BMW Canada has revealed a limited-edition G60 5 Series and photographed it parked next to the old one it honours. And as nice as the new one is… we can't stop staring at the old one. If you're not already furiously typing 'E34 for sale' into your chosen internet sailboat, you might like to know more about this new [deep breath] BMW 540i xDrive Legacy Edition. Advertisement - Page continues below It's a straight-six 5er, devoid of electrification and filled with turbocharged horsepower. The 'legendary' 3.0-litre sixer kicks out 370bhp and 398lb ft of torque, which is what you'd consider extremely healthy. That's fed through an eight-speed auto to all four wheels to deliver 0-62mph in just 4.7s. That's right! Old M3 pace. Elsewhere there's a special blue paintjob, M Sport Pro pack, 21s, and tonnes of 'premium' equipment thrown into the mix including an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins stereo. All for free. Well, not free, but all wrapped up in a single cost. We don't know said cost, but it doesn't matter because a) we don't live in Canada, and b) it's limited to just 151 cars. Which is probably still more than the number of healthy E34s available, especially if you're after a similar example to the 540i in these photographs. Advertisement - Page continues below Yes, E34 enthusiasts will be crying into their M-branded handkerchiefs, because the E34 540i was a V8, not a straight-six. So as nice and rare as a brand-new, straight-six BMW saloon is… we can't stop staring at the old one. Top Gear Newsletter Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Look out for your regular round-up of news, reviews and offers in your inbox. Get all the latest news, reviews and exclusives, direct to your inbox. Success Your Email*
Auto Blog
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Here's Why BMW Hasn't Pulled The Trigger On M2 xDrive... Yet
The Most Capable M2 Ever Could Still Be Coming Rumors of an xDrive all-wheel-drive version of the BMW M2 first surfaced around two years ago, but so far, there has been no official confirmation from the automaker. The M2 is still only available with rear-wheel drive, unlike the larger M4 Coupe. However, an executive has told BMW Blog that the M2 xDrive is still an option, while also providing a logical reason for why the grippier AWD setup hasn't yet been introduced on the brand's smallest coupe. It all comes down to production timelines and how often new variants of high-performance M models are launched. BMW M2 xDrive Still An Option Source: BMW Dirk Häcker, the head of research and development at BMW M, told BMW Blog that an M2 xDrive 'could' still happen. He was specifically asked why the M3 and M4 have the optional xDrive system but the M2 does not, and responded with this: 'I think the M3 and M4 CS are in a later stage. We introduced the M2 about two years ago, so we have started with rear-wheel drive. We now offer the M2 CS, and we have a lot of time to the EOP [end of production] of the car. So there could be also ideas to offer for the future of an xDrive system, but there is no final decision.' BMW Blog's sources suggest the xDrive model will go into production from August 2026, alongside the current RWD model. RWD M2 Unique In Its Segment While the possible M2 xDrive is expected to be slightly quicker in a straight line and around a track, the current M2 with RWD is unique in its segment. Audi and BMW don't make comparable small sports coupes, and their closest M2 rivals – the RS3 sedan and CLA 45 S Coupe – are exclusively available with AWD. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Furthermore, the M2 is available with a six-speed manual, which both of these rivals lack. The M2 xDrive, if it does materialize, is expected to be sold exclusively with BMW's eight-speed automatic transmission. The six-cylinder engine is also unique to the M2. For now, M2 fans will have to settle for RWD, but the new M2 CS at least offers a hefty increase in power to 523 horses. One can only imagine how devastating the M2 CS would be with AWD, and we wouldn't rule out the possibility of such a model in the future. Ultimately, it looks like the best of the current M2 is yet to come. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
Geeky Gadgets
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- Geeky Gadgets
BMW M2 CS: The Most Powerful RWD M Car?
The BMW M2 CS is redefining the compact high-performance sports car category with its impressive engineering and design. Powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, the M2 CS delivers a staggering 530 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque. This represents a significant upgrade over the standard M2, with an additional 50 horsepower and 50 Nm of torque, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in a compact sports car. The car's lightweight construction, achieved through the use of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components, further enhances its agility and performance, allowing it to tackle even the most challenging roads and tracks with ease. Precision Engineering for Optimal Performance The BMW M2 CS is a testament to the brand's commitment to precision engineering and innovative technology. The car features a range of advanced systems designed to optimize performance, including the adaptive M suspension with bespoke tuning, which allows the driver to adjust the car's handling characteristics to suit their preferences and driving conditions. The M2 CS also features a high-performance M Compound braking system, with optional M Carbon ceramic brakes available for even greater stopping power and fade resistance. The forged M light-alloy wheels, measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, provide exceptional grip and stability, ensuring that the car remains planted on the road even during high-speed maneuvers. Track-Ready Yet Everyday Practical The M2 CS is not just a track tool; it's also designed for everyday usability. With a top speed of 302 km/h (188 mph) and the ability to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, it offers exhilarating performance that is sure to satisfy even the most demanding drivers. The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic ensures seamless power delivery, allowing for smooth and precise gear changes whether on the racetrack or the open road. Despite its track-focused capabilities, the M2 CS remains a practical choice for daily driving, with a comfortable and well-appointed interior that features high-quality materials and advanced technology, such as the BMW Operating System 8.5 and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with M-specific displays. Exclusive and Limited Edition The BMW M2 CS is set to launch in late summer 2025, with a starting price of €115,000 in Germany. As a limited-edition model, it will be produced in restricted numbers, making it a highly exclusive offering that is sure to be sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Key markets for the M2 CS include the USA, Germany, and China, where demand for high-performance sports cars is particularly strong. Customers can choose from four exterior colors, including the striking Sapphire Black metallic and M Portimao Blue metallic, to personalize their vehicle and make it truly their own. Specifications Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line with M TwinPower Turbo technology 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line with M TwinPower Turbo technology Power Output: 530 hp 530 hp Torque: 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) Transmission: Eight-speed M Steptronic with Drivelogic Eight-speed M Steptronic with Drivelogic Top Speed: 302 km/h (188 mph) 302 km/h (188 mph) 0-100 km/h (62 mph): 3.8 seconds 3.8 seconds Weight Reduction: 30 kg lighter than the standard M2 30 kg lighter than the standard M2 Chassis: Adaptive M suspension with bespoke tuning Adaptive M suspension with bespoke tuning Brakes: M Compound braking system (optional M Carbon ceramic brakes) M Compound braking system (optional M Carbon ceramic brakes) Wheels: Forged M light-alloy wheels (19-inch front, 20-inch rear) Forged M light-alloy wheels (19-inch front, 20-inch rear) Interior: M Carbon bucket seats, Alcantara steering wheel, and carbon-fibre trim M Carbon bucket seats, Alcantara steering wheel, and carbon-fibre trim Technology: BMW Operating System 8.5, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, and M-specific displays Explore More from BMW For those intrigued by the BMW M2 CS, other models like the BMW M3 Competition Sedan or the BMW M4 Competition Coupé may also be of interest. These vehicles share the same engineering excellence and performance DNA, offering a range of options for enthusiasts seeking the ultimate driving machine. The M3 Competition Sedan combines the practicality of a four-door vehicle with the raw power and agility of a high-performance sports car, while the M4 Competition Coupé offers a sleek and stylish two-door design that is sure to turn heads. Whether you're a track-day enthusiast or a daily driver, BMW's M lineup has something to offer, with a range of vehicles that deliver uncompromising performance, innovative technology, and timeless style. Source BMW Filed Under: Auto News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
