Consulting most car fanatics about what constitutes a proper sportscar will very frequently yield a similar response: some variation of BMW’s legendary M Coupés. From the original 1988 E30 M3, to the popular and desirable E46 variant of the early 2000’s to the current, expanded lineup. However, ask those same enthusiasts if they see a problem with BMW’s newer M3 and M4 variants and the answers will typically also follow a line: they’re too big.
As the owner of an E46 M3 myself, I tend to agree with this statement. The M4 Coupé is a fantastic piece of machinery, but it doesn’t necessarily feel like a replacement for the E46 and certainly not to the E30. It’s almost a foot longer, four inches wider, and over 200 pounds heavier. The added power and technology means enhanced performance, but there is something to be said about compact, nimble designs – just ask Mazda about the Miata’s success.
That’s where the M2 came in, a few years ago. It’s roughly the same size as the beloved E46 Coupé, albeit with over a decade’s worth of technology enhancements making it a blast to drive at any speed. BMW has just released their updated 2019 M2 competition, which replaces the base M2 sold so far. While the original car was already fantastic performance wise, the new variant incorporates a detuned version of the M3 and M4’s twin-turbo engine, in place of the previous single-turbo mill. Power is up 40 horsepower from 365 to 405, and torque is up over 70ft-lbs to 406 from 343. A six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching is still standard for enthusiasts and purists, and the 7-speed M-DCT dual-clutch automatic is available for an extra $2,900.
The new M2 Competition will arrive at dealers next month and features other cosmetic improvements such as available LED headlights, standard larger wheels, a facelifted front bumper and LED tail lights with revamped suspension components. It’ll do 0-60 miles per hour 0.1 seconds quicker than the outgoing model, and larger brakes allow it to stop faster too.
As far as cabin tech is concerned, there are no updates: the same 12-speaker Harman/Kardon surround system is linked to BMW’s iDrive suite with an 8.8-inch screen with Apple CarPlay capabilities (Android Auto is not supported). Prices start at $58,900 for the manual transmission version and can go up to $67,100 with every option ticked.
