BMW M2 Competition Goes Official With 405 HP

After several high-profile leaks, BMW has officially unveiled the 2019 M2 Competition.

Looking instantly recognizable, the model replaces the previous M2 Coupe and features a modestly revised front fascia with a larger grille to help improve cooling. Additional styling changes are limited but the car has aerodynamic mirror caps, a black chrome exhaust system and restyled 19-inch wheels featuring Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

The interior largely carries but there’s new M Sport seats that feature an illuminated M2 logo on the backrest. Drivers will also find a red push-button ignition and a sport steering wheel with M buttons which can store custom performance settings. Other highlights include “M2 Competition” sill plates, Alcantara accents and special seat belts which have BMW M stripes woven into them.

Bigger changes occur underneath the hood as the car has a modified version of the twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that resides in the M3 and M4. It produces 405 hp (410 PS / 301 kW) and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque. When paired to the standard six-speed manual transmission, the M2 Competition accelerates 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds. Buyers can also order an optional seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox which cuts the 0-60 mph time to four seconds flat.

The model has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) but that can be increased to 174 mph (280 km/h) when equipped with the optional M Driver’s Package.

In order to accommodate the new engine, the M2 Competition has the same cooling system as the M4 with the Competition Package. It includes a central radiator, two side radiators and an additional engine oil cooler. Models with the M DCT also receive a transmission oil cooler.

Of course, the performance features don’t stop there as the M2 has a carbon fiber reinforced plastic strut tower brace, a revised electromechanical power steering system and an “enhanced” Active M Differential. The car has also has axles from the M3 and M4 as well as revised suspension which uses forged aluminum components out back.

The braking system has also been improved on US-spec models as there are larger discs that measure 400mm front and 380mm rear. Engineers also installed six-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers in the rear.

The BMW M2 Competition will be launched in the United States this summer and pricing will be announced shortly before this occurs.