The 2026 BMW M2 CS is the purest expression of BMW M’s “CS” philosophy in a compact coupe—combining punchy power, razor-sharp dynamics and exclusive design details. Unveiled at Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on May 23, 2025, it distills track-focused technology from its larger siblings into the nimble G87 platform.
A Heritage of “CS” Excellence
The “CS” badge has long signified the very top of BMW M’s performance hierarchy—lightweight construction married to motorsport-derived upgrades. From the E46 M3 CSL to the F82 M4 CS, each model has shaved pounds, stiffened its chassis and added bespoke aero. The new M2 CS carries this lineage forward by transplanting near-M4 levels of power and carbon-fiber bodywork into the G87’s smaller footprint, creating an intensely focused driving machine.
Heart of the Car: Engine & Transmission
At its core is an uprated S58 3.0 L twin-turbo inline-six, now delivering 523 hp at 6,250 rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque between 2,700–5,625 rpm—a gain of +50 hp and +37 lb-ft over the standard M2 Auto. All that power is sent rearward through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic, chosen for its lightning-fast shifts and robust torque capacity. With Launch Control engaged, 0–60 mph falls in 3.7 seconds, and top speed is limited to 188 mph.
Mass Reduction & Chassis Precision
Weight savings are central to the CS ethos. Through extensive use of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics for the trunk lid, rear diffuser and optional roof panel—plus thinner-wall glass and forged wheels—BMW M engineers have trimmed 97 lb from curb weight, now 3,770 lb. Lower mass and reduced polar moment yield lightning-fast turn-in and razor-sharp mid-corner response. The adaptive M suspension features bespoke spring and damper rates, and the electronically controlled limited-slip differential is retuned for more aggressive lock-up under power, delivering exceptional drive-out stability.
Functional Styling & Aero
The M2 CS’s exterior is as purposeful as it is dramatic. Up front, a matte-black splitter and enlarged air intakes improve cooling and downforce. Out back, a CSL-inspired ducktail spoiler is seamlessly integrated into the carbon-fiber trunk lid, generating meaningful rear grip while paying homage to BMW’s classic CSL silhouette. Matte Gold Bronze 827M wheels (19″ × 9″ front, 20″ × 10″ rear) fill the flared arches and come shod with grippy Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires; carbon-ceramic brakes are available to further reduce unsprung mass and ensure fade-free stopping on track.
Cockpit: Focused Luxury
Inside, the M2 CS envelops driver and passenger in a performance-first environment. Carbon-fiber bucket seats wrapped in black Merino leather feature pronounced bolsters and illuminated “CS” logos. The Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel carries a red 12 o’clock marker; M-themed seatbelts, carbon-fiber trim and CS-branded sill plates reinforce its competition DNA. BMW’s Curved Display delivers real-time telemetry—lap times, boost pressure and g-force readouts—alongside configurable performance pages, giving enthusiasts the data they crave.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Figure |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0 L Twin-Turbo I6 (S58) |
| Power | 523 hp @ 6,250 rpm |
| Torque | 479 lb-ft @ 2,700–5,625 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-sp Steptronic Auto (RWD) |
| 0–60 mph | 3.7 s |
| Top Speed | 188 mph |
| Curb Weight | 3,770 lb (1,710 kg) |
| Weight Reduction | –97 lb vs. standard M2 Auto |
| Wheel Sizes | 19″×9″ F, 20″×10″ R |
| Tires (Std.) | 275/35 ZR19 F, 285/30 ZR20 R |
| Brake Options | M Compound; Carbon-Ceramic opt. |
| Production Run | < 2,000 units globally |
| Base U.S. Price | ≈ $100,000 |
The Bottom Line
The M2 CS crystallizes BMW M’s most prized ingredients—powerful S58 engine, carbon-fiber bodywork, precision-tuned chassis and driver-centric cockpit—into its smallest, most agile package. What emerges is a compact coupe that feels right at home on winding backroads and equally at ease on the racetrack, embodying the pure “driver’s car” ethos that only a true CS can deliver.
