Spied: BMW M2
Forthcoming baby M car is spotted inside the Arctic Circle
And, of course, like prototypes everywhere they're followed by a chasing pack of spy photographers, who willingly risk frostbite to snap future cars. And it's paid off here, with a great set of pictures of the BMW M2 wearing nothing more than BMW's light 'dazzle' disguise ahead of its debut later this year.
First impressions are that it looks like a slightly downsized E92 M3, which most of us would agree is a good thing. See the chunkier flared wheel arches, together with the trademark M car quad exhaust tailpipes.
The M2 is the successor to the 1 M Coupe, which became an instant cult classic when it was launched back in 2011 and is still reckoned by many to be the best M car of the last five years. It will sit above the M235i, but below the M4, requiring some nifty footwork by the marketing department considering that all three cars will be powered by turbocharged 3.0-litre straight sixes.
But three different engines, with the M2's motor reportedly spun from BMW's next generation petrol six (while the M3 and M4 use an engine derived from the old N55). Autocar reckons it will produce a bit less than 400hp - to make sure it doesn't get too close to the M4 - and will be offered with both a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-speed dual-clutch DCT. It should also be lighter and stiffer than the M235i thanks to the use of carbon and composite parts.
Here's hoping it's as good as the 1 M was.
[Source: Autocar]
[Pictures: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien]
size probably similar to a E46 M3 which is not a bad thing.
I hope these aren't a limited production run as I always seem to miss out as they are never out at the right time for me.
I would predict 360-370bhp especially as it is using an M version of the new B58 (S58??) 3.0 engine that is going to launch later this year in the 340i.
Mercedes have already mentioned that the A45 will get a power boost to 370bhp to fend off this and the new RS3.
The price difference between this, the M235i and M3/4 will ensure that sales won't be cannabalised. In my opinion M servicing and the other related costs will probably keep certain folks from buying this. Having said that It might be a bit of an issue for the M4 if it is 'too' good.
I'll be amused if the new B58/S58 engine sounds better than the current lump in the M3/4 which is pretty bland.
When BMW released the E36 M3 and the E36 328i they had to detune the 328(In the form of a lesser intake manifold) as they feared it would have detremented sales of the M3 if they were too closely matched.
I fear the M235i will detriment sales of this, or the other way round.
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