You've been waiting for this, haven't you? We have, too. A little over two years after the
BMW M2
was launched, first details have emerged of an
M2 Competition
. And wouldn't you know, it sounds rather good.
According to the information seen thus far, the most interesting fact is the introduction of a twin-turbo straight six engine. This implies that the M2 will use a detuned version of the M3 engine, the standard car using a single turbo straight six. Don't forget, either, that they are completely different engines, the larger car's S55 lump using far more exotic components than the M2's more prosaic N55. Anybody who has driven both will vouch for the revvier, more exciting character of the M3's engine.
Power is believed to be in excess of 400hp, the info we have stating 302kW, or 405hp. That's a useful gain over the standard cars 370hp while also protecting the status of its 431hp big brother. Torque is boosted to 406lb ft, which matches the M3/M4 duo. Less appealingly, from what we've heard, the Competition will be fitted with a dual-clutch gearbox as standard. Given so much of the M2's pugnacious character is wrapped up in the six-speed manual, it would be a shame to see that disappear. A cost option perhaps?
Other tweaks for the Competition include a revised front bumper, new wheels, more prominent exhausts and an M2 badge plonked on the kidney grille. Inside it looks like there are fancier seats, but otherwise a fairly familiar junior M car driving environment. Only with the wrong gearlever...
Plenty to be encouraged by with the Competition by the sounds of it then, because who isn't enthused by the idea of a faster and slightly more focused M2? Expect official details very soon. And if you can't wait, early versions of the standard car are now
well under £40k
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