BMW has just dropped a shadowy image of the new M2 CS Racing, some 24 hours prior to the regular M2 CS’ (yes, that’s the street-legal model you will soon be able to buy and drive) premiere.
The Germans didn’t have anything new to say about the racer at this point, other than sharing this short statement: “Born on the road. Beast on the track. The new BMW M2 CS Racing. Stay tuned for more.”
What we do know is that the M2 CS Racing will replace the M240i Racing, itself being a successor to the previous M235i Racing, with the first customer cars slated to arrive in the second quarter of 2020.
And what about the 2020 BMW M2 CS?
Instead of being a fully stripped out track special, the M2 CS Racing’s road-going twin will keep the regular model’s four-seat layout, but it will undergo a strict diet through a series of measures. Among others, these will include skinnier seats, basic equipment in the interior, and the replacement of the steel roof with a carbonfiber one, keeping its weight under 1,550 kg (3,417 lbs) while also giving it a lower center of gravity.
Related: BMW M2 Competition Heritage Edition Honors Iconic 2002 Turbo
Other changes brought to the M2 CS will be an aerodynamic package comprised of a deeper and more pronounced front bumper, different side sills, redesigned rear bumper and a larger rear spoiler, together with lighter wheels and a re-turned suspension with new components.
Combined with the weight loss is a healthy bump in power for the S55–codenamed 3.0-liter twin-turbo’d inline-six, from 404hp (410PS / 301kW) in the M2 Competition, to a rumored 444hp (450PS / 331kW) – though we have heard of a lower number as well.
Following its online presentation this week, the new M2 CS is expected to have its world premiere on stage at this month’s LA Auto Show.
