Geoff Maxted
By Geoff Maxted

Whichever model is chosen from the premium quality BMW catalogue, it can always be said that this brand of cars is good to drive; and driving doesn’t get any better than in an ‘M’ Series. They come in different sizes but today’s car is the new ‘M CS’ model.

Here’s more:

The new BMW M2 CS weighs approximately 30 kilos lighter than the standard model M2. This notable weight reduction has been achieved through intelligent lightweight construction utilising an array of exterior and interior components made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) coupled with standard-fit forged M light-alloy wheels. The result is the lightest BMW M2 of this generation.

BMW M2 CS

A Bold & Purposeful Exterior

The exterior design of the BMW M2 CS comprises a variety of components made from CFRP and model-specific details. The front-end is characterised by a newly designed and stripped-back BMW M kidney grille with optimised air inlets, ‘Shadow Line Adaptive LED’ headlights with high-beam assist and a matte black front splitter.

Most prominent at the rear is a large duck-tail spoiler, which has been seamlessly integrated into the CFRP boot lid. The ‘M2 CS’ badge finished in a red/black colourway sits beneath the pronounced spoiler. In addition to the M exterior mirror caps, familiar from the current-generation BMW M2, this special edition model gains a standard-fit M carbon roof and a unique rear diffuser, also made from CFRP.

BMW M2 CS customers can select from four exterior paint colours while the CS-exclusive M light-alloy wheels in a double-spoke design are finished exclusively in matte Gold Bronze. They measure 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear and are fitted as standard with track tyres. Customers can specify sport tyres at no additional charge, while ultra-track tyres are available optionally and obviously yield the most benefit on the race-track.

BMW M2 CS
BMW M2 CS

The chassis technology and braking system for the BMW M2 CS are precisely tailored to the model’s improved performance characteristics and its unique weight distribution. Lowered by eight millimetres, the chassis benefits from model-specific adaptations, including bespoke tuning for the springs, dampers and chassis control systems. In addition, the settings for the’ Dynamic Stability Control’ and ‘M Dynamic Mode’ have been precisely optimised to meet the demands of driving on track. The M ‘Servotronic’ steering, M Sport differential and integrated braking system also receive model-specific tuning.

A ‘M Compound’ braking system with red brake callipers is fitted as standard. Driver’s seeking additional stopping power can choose the optional ‘M Carbon’ ceramic brakes, which are also equipped with red brake callipers.

In The Driver’s Seat

The interior of the BMW M2 CS combines a performance-oriented cockpit with the very latest in advanced digital technology, safety features and further model-exclusive design elements. A standout feature is the centre console, which has been constructed entirely from CFRP. Similarly, the heated and weight-optimised bucket seats for the driver and front passenger are also made from carbon and can be electrically adjusted into a wide range of positions. Each has integral head restraints, an illuminated ‘CS’ model badge and surfaces in full Merino leather.

BMW M2 CS
BMW M2 CS

Bringing authentic racing flair into the cockpit, a heated ‘M Alcantara’ steering wheel in a three-spoke design is fitted as standard. It features a flat-bottomed rim, a red centre marker in the 12 o’clock position and two M buttons which provide quick access to individually configured vehicle setups. Elsewhere, ‘CS’ lettering decorates the centre console, door sills and is illuminated within the door panels; a unique feature of this model. Rounding off the interior design is a standard-fit anthracite headliner.

This prestige high-performance model features a BMW Curved Display, comprising a 12.3 inch information display and a 14.9 inch control display with an M-specific interface based on BMW ‘Operating System 8.5’. The information display features ‘M Shift Lights’ at its upper edge, while the status of the driving stability systems and traction control can be found in the lower portion of the screen. The home screen of the 14.9 inch control display provides access to widgets for vehicle set-up, tyre pressure and temperature.

BMW M2 CS
BMW M2 CS

On The Road

The BMW M2 CS utilises the same cutting-edge operating concept for driving configuration as the standard BMW M2. At its heart is the Set-up button on the centre console which provides direct access to settings for the engine, chassis, steering and brakes. Offering further customisation capability, the special edition comes as standard with the ‘M Drive Professional’ system with track-optimised functions such as the ‘M Drift Analyser’ and ‘M Laptimer’. This system also includes a TRACK mode and ten-stage ‘M Traction Control’, where the wheel slip limiter intervention thresholds can be tailored to the driver’s individual preference. You can also use this car as your everyday transport, seating 4/5 in comfort; it is not just a race car but can also be configured for comfort too.

Power is derived from an upgraded version of the 3.0 litre, six-cylinder in-line petrol engine found in the current generation BMW M2. Especially noticeable in dynamic driving situations, the engine’s unmistakeable performance characteristics are sharper, and power delivery is linear, even into the higher rev ranges. The engine’s power output rises to 530bhp (537PS), a 50bhp power increase over the current generation. Peak torque also sees a 50Nm increase, with 650Nm available across a broad rev range from 2,650 rpm and up to 5,730 rpm. The engine’s maximum power output is mobilised at 6,250 rpm before it reaches a 7,200-rpm red line. Performance is further enhanced through model-specific accelerator mapping across all drive modes selectable via the ‘M Setup’ menu.

BMW M2 CS
BMW M2 CS

For those who like a bit of technical engineering information, the engine’s M Twin-Power Turbo technology comprises a pair of mono-scroll turbochargers, an indirect intercooler supplied by a low-temperature circuit, and an electronically controlled waste gate. The technology package also includes ‘High Precision Injection’, which operates with maximum pressure of 350 bar, variable valve timing and fully variable camshaft timing. Inspired by motor-sport, the engine additionally features an extremely rigid crankcase with a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction, a forged crankshaft with lightweight design, cylinder bores with a wire-arc sprayed iron coating and a 3D-printed core for the cylinder head. The point about telling you this is not to bore you but to show just how much high-tech engineering know-how goes into a performance BMW engine. All you really need to do is to push the loud pedal and listen to the aural symphony.

Power is delivered through an eight-speed ‘M Steptronic’ transmission with BMW ‘Drivelogic’ as standard. A D’rivelogic’ button is integrated into the gear selector lever, making it possible to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics with a choice of three distinct levels. In addition to the gear selector lever, gear-shift paddles on the steering wheel can be used for sequential interventions in the gear selection process at any time.

Performance is of course guaranteed: 0 to 62MPH (100KPH) in less than four seconds to be precise. A specially designed engine mounting with increased spring rates establishes a highly rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle's structure. This results in a sharper engine response and an extremely direct transmission of power to the drivetrain.

MHH International & BMW

Of course, not everybody needs as much car as this which is why the prestige German car maker offers a wide range of vehicles from practical SUV models to powerhouses like the automotive rocket featured here. BMW cars are available to buy for export from the UK to global destinations like New Zealand and Kenya and many more places besides. MHH International offer a premium comprehensive export service for new and used vehicles, born of many years of experience. Full details can be found on our website. Our current stock of BMW vehicles can be found on this page. Our very experienced team are ready to help you into your next car.

BMW M2 CS

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