BMW M has unveiled the 2025 M2 CS, a lighter and more powerful version of its compact sports coupé with an aggressive tuning package. However, in a move that will disappoint purists, it is only available with an automatic transmission.
Key upgrades over the standard M2
Engine: With 530 hp (+50 hp) and 650 Nm of torque, the twin-turbo 3.0L inline-six now matches the M3 Competition.
Performance: Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds (or 3.5 seconds with rollout); top speed of 302 km/h (electronically limited).
Weight Savings: It is 30 kg lighter thanks to the carbon fibre roof, bonnet and interior trim.
Chassis: It has been lowered by 8 mm and features retuned adaptive dampers, stiffer engine mounts and a track-focused DSC calibration.
Exclusive Touches: forged bronze wheels, M Carbon bucket seats and a ducktail spoiler.
The big omission: No manual option.
Although the M2 CS is a formidable track car, BMW's decision to offer it exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission seems like a missed opportunity. The standard M2 lost its manual option for 2025, and the CS - a car built for driving enthusiasts - would have been the perfect model on which to reinstate it.
Instead, power is sent solely to the rear wheels via BMW’s M Steptronic transmission, which, while quick, lacks the engagement of a proper three-pedal setup. For an M2 that’s supposed to be the ultimate driver's car, that’s a tough pill to swallow.
Track-Ready, But Still Daily-Drivable
Despite its hardcore upgrades, the CS retains luxury features such as:
BMW OS 8.5 with curved display
Heated M Carbon seats (with harness cutouts for track days)
Harman Kardon audio & augmented reality nav
Only a limited number of units will be produced, with deliveries due to begin in late 2025. Prices start at €115,000 in Germany.
Would you choose the automatic CS or wait for the manual M2 CSL? Let us know in the comments!
