The BMW M2 CS: Almost Flawless, A Manual Transmission Away From Perfection

Enthusiasts often laud the BMW M2 as the quintessential contemporary M vehicle, primarily for its agile and compact form factor. The M2 Competition Sport (CS) variant amplifies this reputation, distinguishing itself as the sole rear-wheel-drive CS model until recently. While it may not boast the sheer power of the M3 CS and M4 CS, or the rapid acceleration to 60 mph offered by xDrive-equipped siblings, the M2 CS unequivocally earns its stripes as a serious performance machine, far from a mere 'entry-level' M car.

Under the hood, the M2 CS houses a formidable 3.0-liter S58 twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, meticulously tuned to unleash an impressive 523 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque—the highest output ever in an M2. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, BMW states it can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.7 seconds, a figure confirmed by independent testing. While its all-wheel-drive counterparts are known to achieve sub-three-second sprints, the M2 CS prioritizes a purist driving experience. The essence of a CS model lies in its enhanced lightness and track-focused design, surpassing standard M cars. The M2 CS sheds 97 pounds through extensive use of carbon fiber for components like the trunk, roof, mirrors, and forged alloy wheels, even extending to a carbon fiber center console for weight reduction.

Driving the M2 CS demands a dedicated approach, particularly when deactivating the xDrive system, which necessitates disabling dynamic stability control. On public roads, pushing its limits without contravening numerous regulations is a significant challenge. The M2 CS maintains a composed demeanor in its Comfort and Sport settings, which apply to the engine, chassis, steering, and brakes. However, activating Sport Plus, available for the engine and chassis, transforms the vehicle into an aggressively potent machine. Achieving the ideal setup for your driving style is paramount, and once calibrated, the M2 CS delivers exhilarating performance. Personalized settings can be stored for quick access via the M1 or M2 buttons on the steering wheel. Compared to standard M models, CS vehicles offer a more visceral experience: a more pronounced engine note, stiffer engine mounts, sharper throttle response, and more precise steering. This refined driving dynamic is a testament to BMW's responsive integration of enthusiast feedback, culminating in a driving sensation that genuinely elevates the M car experience.

In the realm of high-performance vehicles, the demand for a manual transmission option continues to resonate deeply with driving aficionados. The recent introduction of the M3 CS Handschalter, an exclusive rear-wheel-drive, manual-equipped model for the North American market, underscores this sentiment. This vehicle perfectly encapsulates the Lightweight CS philosophy, delivering an even more unadulterated driving experience. Although its six-speed manual gearbox limits its output to 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft, resulting in a slightly longer 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds (or 3.8 seconds with a one-foot rollout), the sheer joy of engaging with the gears compensates for any marginal speed difference. Given the intense market demand for manual CS cars, evidenced by significant dealer markups on the limited 800-900 units of the M3 CS Handschalter, BMW has a clear opportunity. By introducing an M2 CS Handschalter, BMW could satiate this demand, particularly considering that enthusiasts already regard the M2 platform as ideal for a CS variant due to its compact size. Furthermore, if BMW could reduce the M2 CS's price, similar to how the M3 CS Handschalter is more affordable than its predecessor, it would create room for desirable features like yellow daytime running lights (DRLs) and BMW Individual colors, previously offered on the M3 Handschalter. Such a move would create a near-perfect performance recipe, and failing to capitalize on this potential would be a missed opportunity for the brand to fully connect with its most passionate customers.