We lined all of the hard-hitting info in regards to the new M2 CS, so how about one thing a bit extra superfluous? The second technology of BMW’s Competitors Sport compact coupe features a function not discovered on latest CS-badged fashions. Properly, “function” is perhaps a little bit of a stretch. Lo and behold, there are illuminated door trim panels with “CS” lettering.
They’re related to the usual ambient lighting, permitting house owners to alter the colour to their liking. When switched off, that part of the door panel reveals a carbon construction. The M2 CS in any other case includes a acquainted cabin, with carbon bucket seats, however this time with illuminated CS logos. To drive the purpose dwelling, BMW additionally installs new entry sill plates with a big M2 CS script in pink. Different tweaks embrace a flat-bottomed Alcantara steering wheel and carbon fiber-reinforced plastic shift paddles. CFRP can also be used for the middle console.
We admit the light-up CS logos look neat in the dead of night and assist distinguish the cabin from an ordinary M2’s inside. It received’t be lengthy earlier than the aftermarket replicates this manufacturing unit bling with customized mods tailor-made to an everyday G87. The age of faux inside badging is upon us. However let’s be actual: fanatics would gladly commerce this gimmick for one thing with extra substance. We’re speaking a few six-speed guide gearbox, which, sadly, isn’t coming to the M2 CS.
M boss Frank van Meel advised us final weekend on the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este that solely the eight-speed Steptronic automated transmission can deal with the engine’s full potential. Had they retained the three-pedal setup, the automotive would’ve made lower than 500 horsepower. One other future spinoff of the M2 can even eschew the clutch pedal, because it’s exhausting to think about the long-rumored xDrive variant pairing with a stick shift.
That’s to not say the guide is dying. The all-wheel-drive M2, coming in 2026, received’t exchange the common mannequin with its do-it-yourself gearbox. There’s a superb likelihood BMW will hold the 6MT till the very finish of the automotive’s life cycle, so you continue to have just a few good years left to row your individual gears.
