First Images Of 2023 BMW M2 Testing Emerge

The next BMW 2-Series Coupe is expected to launch towards the latter half of 2021, and it seems our spies have spotted a heavily-disguised tester for the most potent 2 to be offered: an early M2 prototype.

The 2-Series lineup currently has a confusing number of variants, including a range of front-wheel-drive cars consisting of a four-door “Gran Coupe,” an Active Tourer, and Grand Tourer MPVs (not offered in the USA). The 2-Series Coupe and Convertible are both rear-wheel drive, with the current car being the darling of enthusiasts the world over.

The good news is that the new 2-Series Coupe (codenamed G42) and M2 will continue to send power to the back, and there’s even the possibility of an AWD variant. The new car will be based on the same CLAR platform that underpins all BMW cars that feature longitudinally-mounted engines. That means the M2 will likely use an M-engine already in production, with the prime candidate a de-tuned version of the turbocharged 3-liter inline-six turbo from the M3.

As seen in these images are wider arches and the telltale quad-pipes found on M models, features that are markedly different from the prototypes we’ve already caught. What’s less clear is what styling direction the new M2 will take.

Will the M2 follow the latest M3’s lead with tall ‘double coffin’ grilles?

That’s the million dollar question. BMW has come under fire for its recent polarizing design direction and while the M2 initially appears to avoid the vertical grille arrangement of the M3, we can’t be sure as the camouflage and cladding leave much to the imagination. What we do know is that it will draw off the front design of the 2-Series Coupe, leaked images which supposedly showed off the design of what we believe to be the M-Performance-branded M240i model in detail depict slightly smaller grilles, with a uniquely-placed M-badge on the lower air-intake.

The M2 will have a lot riding on its shoulders as it fills in the shoes of the outgoing model. The current model has been one of BMW’s rarer successes, receiving almost universal praise for its chassis, engine, and design.

Expect the 2-Series Coupe to have its official launch towards the end of 2021, with the M2 following in 2022.