BMW M2 CS: Lightweight Carbon Coupé Delivers 530 HP Thrill
BMW M GmbH has unveiled the BMW M2 CS, a limited-edition compact high-performance coupé that channels the spirit of the iconic 2002 Turbo while embracing modern lightweight carbon-fibre engineering. Engineers have raised the 3.0-litre six-cylinder’s output to 530 hp and 650 Nm, so the car storms from 0–62 mph in 3.8 seconds and reaches an electronically capped 188 mph. Official WLTP figures quote 28.8 mpg and 226 g/km of CO₂ (class G), showing that performance and everyday usability can coexist.
A cocktail of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic panels, a carbon roof, and forged M light-alloy wheel trims reduces the weight by roughly 30 kilograms compared to the standard M2, giving this M2 CS the sharpest power-to-weight ratio of the range. BMW complements the diet with chassis tuning unique to the model: firmer springs and dampers, recalibrated DSC and an M Sport differential that sends torque precisely where the tyres need it. Red-painted M Compound brakes sit behind 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels; track-focused carbon-ceramic discs remain an option for drivers who demand relentless stopping power.
The powertrain pairs its twin mono-scroll turbos, 350-bar High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC timing with an eight-speed M Steptronic gearbox. A rigid engine mount tightens responses, while Drivelogic lets the driver tailor shift ferocity via a button on the selector or paddles on the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel. Under heavy load, a dedicated cooling package manages oil and coolant, allowing the straight-six engine to deliver unbroken thrust up to the 7,200-rpm redline.
Outside, the coupé wears a stripped-back M kidney grille, a matte-black splitter and a seamless carbon ducktail spoiler that underline its motorsport intent. Golden Bronze forged wheels, Shadow Line adaptive LED headlights, and a CFRP rear diffuser complete a look that is both functional and eye-catching. Buyers may choose Sapphire Black, M Brooklyn Grey, M Portimao Blue or BMW Individual Velvet Blue, each contrasted by signature gold rims shod with track tyres; sport or ultra-track rubber is available at no extra cost.
Inside, carbon bucket seats trimmed in full Merino leather grip driver and passenger alike, while a carbon centre console and illuminated “CS” details reinforce exclusivity. The flat-bottomed M steering wheel carries red M1 and M2 buttons for instant access to bespoke drive modes. Ahead lies the BMW Curved Display: a 12.3-inch cluster with shift lights and a 14.9-inch control screen running Operating System 8.5. Widgets for tyre data, drift analysis, and lap timing are a tap away, and the standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus features cloud-based navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Three-zone climate control, Comfort Access and a Harman Kardon hi-fi further refine daily use.
Driver-assistance technology matches the performance brief. Driving Assistant, Parking Assistant, collision warnings, lane departure alerts and cruise control with braking function all come as standard, while optional Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go supports longer journeys. An M-specific exhaust, featuring quad matte-black pipes and electronically controlled flaps, provides an authentic soundtrack. Those craving an extra edge can specify a lightweight titanium M Performance system, tuned exclusively for CS models.
Priced from £86,800, the BMW M2 CS will roll off BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí in strictly limited numbers, with first UK deliveries scheduled for late summer 2025. Drivers seeking a compact sports car that combines Porsche-rivalling pace with everyday polish will find the M2 CS a compelling and collectable proposition.
