2025 BMW M2 review
The BMW M2 is an exhilarating high-performance version of the 2 Series Coupe that’s targeted at performance fans who value explosive acceleration and scalpel-sharp handling. Updated for the 2025 model year, the already rapid M2 is taken up another notch via a 20-horsepower boost in output from its turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. As a rare feature in today’s car world, the M2 is still offered with a choice of a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the standard-issue 2 Series is available with all-wheel drive, the M2 caters to driving enthusiasts by being offered solely in rear-wheel drive.
Explore the evolution of the BMW M2
Get our expert take on used BMW M2 models, or view year-by-year changes.
Second generation BMW M2
The M2 is the type of BMW performance car that diehard driving enthusiasts crave. Yes, the rear seat is cramped and trunk volume measures in at 13.8 cubic feet in capacity. That latter figure actually isn’t bad considering the overall pert proportions of this four-passenger sport coupe. The main draw of the M2 is its sheer performance. It comes outfitted with a 473-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder and can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just a bit over 4 seconds. While acceleration and steering feel are outstanding, the M2 delivers poor fuel economy, and the ride can feel overly firm over rough pavement.
Model highlights
Outstanding acceleration
Steering feel and agility
City-friendly proportions
Firm but effectively controlled suspension
Available manual transmission
2016 - 2021
First generation BMW M2
The original M2 can be credited with giving the BMW brand a little extra swagger and bravado. As other models in the German automaker’s portfolio gained in weight and complexity, the M2 was a welcome respite from the increasing move to add more features and do away with enthusiast traits like a manual gearbox. Unlike the 2 Series, the driver-focused M2 was only offered with rear-wheel drive. It also benefited from a stiffer suspension and added a quicker steering ratio compared to the already very lithe 2 Series. To be honest, the M2 can get unsettled when traversing imperfect pavement, and its overall utility is hampered by a snug rear seat. Keep in mind that in the transition from its first to second generation, the M2 skipped the 2022 model year.
Model highlights
Potent turbocharged six-cylinder
Excellent steering feel
Sport-tuned suspension
Driver-focused cabin
Many standard features
Changes by year
Latest generation from 2023 - present
2025 BMW M2
2024 BMW M2
2023 BMW M2
Highlights
Newly redesigned for the 2023 model year
453-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder
Rear-wheel drive
Available manual transmission
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Previous generation from 2016 - 2021
2021 BMW M2
2020 BMW M2
2019 BMW M2
Highlights
Engine output increased to 405 horsepower
Improved suspension tuning and braking components
Restyled grille
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2018 BMW M2
Highlights
Standard LED projector headlights and taillights
User interface updated to latest iDrive 6.0 system
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2017 BMW M2
Highlights
Available Executive package added Wi-Fi, wireless device charging, and upgraded USB and Bluetooth® functionality
Top speed increased from 155 mph to 168 mph
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2016 BMW M2
Highlights
New performance model based on the 2 Series Coupe
365-horsepower turbocharged inline-six
Six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
Rear-wheel drive
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Nick Kurczewski has been writing about cars for more than 20 years, and his enthusiasm for journalism has led him to cover auto-related stories around the world. From blasting down the German autobahn to covering every major auto show, his stories have appeared in the New York Times, Car and Driver, U.S. News & World Report, Kelley Blue Book, Cars.com and the New York Daily News, where he served as head editor. Having once aspired to be a Formula One racer, Nick discovered sharing his passion for cars as a journalist is just as thrilling as dreaming of pole position at the Monaco Grand Prix.
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