BMW introduces the new 2026 M2 CS, a compact high-performance sports car based on the second-generation BMW M2. It features a high-revving S58 inline 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, producing 523 hp – 50 more than the standard BMW M2.
The upgraded engine produces 479 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,620 rpm, achieved by modifying the engine management system. This power unit shares its foundation with the engine used in the BMW M4 GT3 EVO racing car and features a range of components borrowed from racing design. It’s equipped with a forged lightweight crankshaft, an extremely rigid crankcase with a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction, cylinder bores with a wire-arc sprayed iron coating, and a 3D-printed core for the cylinder head.
The powertrain components are maintained at an optimal operating temperature thanks to the M-specific cooling system. In addition, the oil system is built to handle extreme driving situations. Power is sent to the rear through an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.
The M2 CS can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, with a top speed limited at 188 mph. The chassis and braking system have been tuned to match the vehicle’s elevated power and dynamic balance. The chassis is lowered by 0.2 in and features bespoke springs, dampers, and chassis controls. Adaptive M Suspension, M Servotronic steering, M Sport differential, and M Compound brakes come as standard, with M Carbon ceramic brakes available as an option. CS-exclusive Style 827M forged alloy wheels with a double-spoke design and matte Gold Bronze finish are also fitted as standard with high-performance tires.
The M2 CS is nearly 100 pounds lighter than the standard M2 thanks to the use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) components. The exterior stands out with its carbon fiber mirror caps, M Carbon roof, CS-specific rear diffuser, matte black front splitter, black M kidney grille with optimized air inlets, and adaptive LED Headlights with Shadowline dark inlays.
The lightweight CFRP trunk lid with integrated ducktail spoiler bears a striking ‘M2 CS’ logo with a bold red border. Customers can choose from four exterior colors: Black Sapphire metallic, Brooklyn Grey metallic, Portimao Blue metallic, and Individual Velvet Blue metallic.
Inside, the cabin offers a performance-focused environment featuring heated M Carbon bucket seats and door trim panels with illuminated ‘CS’ logos, a heated M Alcantara steering wheel, M Anthracite headlining, and carbon fiber trim throughout. The seat surfaces are finished in Black Merino leather with M Color highlights.
The interior also includes a fully digital display, which consists of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display. Standard features include automatic climate control, comfort access, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Standard driver assistance systems include Forward Collision Mitigation, Active Cruise Control with Distance Control, Lane Keeping Assistant, Speed Limit Info, and the Parking Assistant.
Production of the M2 CS will begin in August 2025 at the BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí in Mexico. Only limited numbers will be produced, with market launch expected in late summer 2025. For further details, visit the brand’s website.
