Track-Ready BMW M2 Ditches S58 Straight Six for Highly Strung Four-Cylinder Engine

BMW has whipped the wraps off the M2 Racing, a track-ready version of the Bavarian brand’s venerable performance-focused compact coupé designed for private racing teams.

M2

Image: BMW

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Positioned as an “entry-level” racer for customer racing outfits, BMW M’s latest M2 Racing is based on the current M2. Yet, as opposed to employing the latter M car’s (353 kW/600 N.m) S58 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six, the track-focused model is equipped with the Bavarian brand’s 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot. The B48 unit produces 230 kW and 420 N.m of torque, sent to the road via a seven-speed, ZF-sourced transmission. (As a reminder, the M2’s six-pot is coupled with BMW’s eight-speed M Steptronic unit.) The German marque’s motorsport department claims these figures are good to allow for a top speed exceeding 270 km/h.

Related: Road Test Figures: BMW M3 Touring

While down on power compared to the M Steptronic-equipped M2, it is worth noting that the race-ready variant weighs considerably less; tipping the scales at a claimed 1 498 kg — a saving of 232 kg. This has been achieved thanks to the fitment of several lightweight items, including a carbon-fibre roof. The M2 Racing is brought to a halt by a set of standard-fitment M Compound brakes, replete with M-specific brake pads, front and rear, and cooling setup. The callipers are housed within 18-inch forged alloy rims, wrapped in Goodyear rubber. Further mechanical revisions include upgrades to the chassis and fitment of a KW suspension arrangement, replete with adjustable fore and aft anti-roll bars.

Related: Top 12 Best Used Buys 2025: Performance Car – BMW M2

Said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH:

“With the introduction of the BMW M2 Racing, we are continuing a proud tradition … Like its predecessors — the BMW M235i Racing, BMW M240i Racing and BMW M2 CS Racing – the new BMW M2 Racing will redefine the entry-level segment. The car is affordable, while offering racing teams and drivers uncompromising performance, durability and pure driving pleasure.”

So, how much can you expect to pay for the M2 Racing? In short, €98 000, which, at the current Rand-Euro exchange rate, translates to just over R2 060 000, making it around R500 000 more expensive than the M car it is based on.

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The post Track-Ready BMW M2 Ditches S58 Straight Six for Highly Strung Four-Cylinder Engine appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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