2016 BMW M2 Coupe Quick Review

TELL ME ABOUT THIS CAR

The M2’s 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged engine is extremely potent for a car of its size, packing an almighty 272kW/500Nm punch. As a drivers’ car, it’s also offered with a manual gearbox in a ‘Pure’ edition; this version sacrifices comforts like electric seats and other conveniences to aid in performance.

If straight-line speed is your thing, a sophisticated 7-speed dual-clutch automatic is available, with this option equipped the M2 will sprint from 0-100km/h in a supercar-like 4.3 seconds.

STRENGTHS

• Charming, powerful engine with a glorious exhaust note
• Fun to drive thanks to manual gearbox, fantastic sports seats and sharp handling
• Smart looking coupe body that remains elegant and sophisticated despite aggressive wheels and bumpers

WEAKNESSES

• Lacks some of the personalised drive settings found in pricier models
• Sports-oriented tune means the ride is not as comfortable as other BMWs
• Offered only as a two-door coupe which may limit its appeal

ANY RIVALS I SHOULD ALSO CONSIDER?

The BMW M2 Coupe’s rear-wheel-drive layout makes it unique. However, for similar money you can also have a Mercedes-AMG CLA45 which delivers similar performance kicks in a coupe-like four-door body. If you’re after something smaller, the same powerful engine is offered in the Mercedes-AMG A45 hatch. Both of these are all-wheel drive, as is the Audi RS3 Sportback, which also offers brutal acceleration at a similar price point. ‘Purists’ will praise the M2 for its rear-drive thrills, while its all-wheel drive rivals offer alternative handling and more practical body styles.