2020 BMW M2

More often than not, when a manufacturer introduces a special edition of an already performance-oriented car, the differences between it and the standard model are usually marginal. However, the case of the BMW M2 CS couldn't be more different. When the BMW M2 debuted in 2015, it earned the reputation as the quintessential BMW for driving enthusiasts compact, agile, with a potent engine and an excellent manual gearbox, it was the perfect followup to the limited-run 1M. As production of the M2 approached its conclusion in 2019, BMW unveiled the ultimate iteration: the M2 CS. While being the most track-focused version, the M2 CS addressed many of the criticisms faced by the M2 Competition. It was meticulously engineered to deliver a more holistic driving experience, earning itself the accolade of being regarded by many as the finest BMW M car of the past decade. It was so good, in fact, in 2020, it clinched the title of EVO Magazines Car of the Year, triumphing over formidable competitors such as the McLaren 765LT and Lamborghini Huracan EVO. Sold new through Rick Hill Imports in Kingsport, TN, this Alpine White M2 CS has been in the care of a single owner from new. Since taking delivery in January 2021, the car has logged just 1,549 miles and remains in excellent condition, with service records showing the car was religiously serviced every 6 months, even if it only had been driven a few hundred miles. This example supports a set of steel brakes, which offer fantastic pedal feel and great initial bite. In classic BMW M fashion, a gloss carbon fiber roof panel moves the center of gravity down and lightens the vehicle while also looking outstanding. The interior of the M2 CS remains largely unchanged from the M2 Competition, prominently showcasing both leather and Alcantara, which is accentuated by red stitching throughout the cabin. The dashboard trim proudly displays a distinct CS logo, intricately stitched in red, while the M-Performance seats pay homage to the classic tri-color M-Stripes first seen in the E36 M3. BMW has implemented several innovative measures to reduce weight in the M2 CS, including a carbon fiber transmission tunnel that sheds 6 pounds compared to the standard model. Further weight reduction is achieved through the removal of the center armrest and rear air conditioning vents. Powering the M2 CS is an enhanced variant of the S55 twin-turbocharged Inline-6 found in the M2 Competition. The CS benefits from the addition of the ECU out of an M4 Competition, bumping power from 405 to 444 but with a more exciting power curve meant to make you work for the performance rather than offer up a flat torque curve just off idle. Available with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT gearbox, the ultimate M2 CS configuration features the 3-pedal option found in this car. Under the hood, a large carbon fiber brace gives the car extra chassis rigidity and looks absolutely stunning, complimenting the extra carbon bits sprinkled around the exterior of the CS. At EAG, we believe it's never bad when BMW decides to put more power into its smallest car, but the M2 CS is more than that. We can't get enough of driving these cars between the weight savings, chassis tuning, and altered power band, they are just so much fun. Regardless of what other cars are sitting in your stable, when you have an M2 CS in there, it will be hard to reach for the keys to anything else.