BMW's M2 Dakar Concept Is So Impressive It’s Painful That It’s Only an April Fool’s Prank | Carscoops
BMW has released a series of images showcasing an off-road-inspired M2 Dakar.
The coupe features increased ground clearance and prominent rear wheel arch vents.
Unfortunately, the adventurous Dakar is merely an April Fool’s Day joke from BMW.
Each year, certain car manufacturers like to playfully trick us with April Fool’s Day stories that are often quite ludicrous. Examples include Isuzu venturing into the fragrance business and Fiat introducing a 500e “Parmigiano Edition” with a grille designed to function as a cheese grater. Yet sometimes, the concepts are so intriguing that they hardly feel like jokes. The BMW M2 Dakar falls into that category.
Today, BMW shared several photos on Instagram of a raised M2 coupe fitted with off-road tires and featuring modifications aimed at enhancing its approach and departure angles. Those critical of the standard M2's design might argue that the compact M car looks better without its awkward factory front bumper.
The front and rear fenders are equipped with large vents for brake cooling in hot desert conditions, and there are skid plates at both ends to shield the 473 hp (480 PS) 3.0-liter inline-six engine and the limited-slip differential. As with any off-road vehicle—especially one named after a notoriously tough rally—the M2 Dakar includes a roof basket with a spare wheel and an emergency fuel can.
A decade ago, we might have dismissed the idea of the M2 Dakar as ridiculous, but with real production models like the Porsche 911 Dakar now available, it’s conceivable that some people could see BMW’s Instagram post and take it as genuine. Sadly, it likely isn’t.
BMW isn't the first car manufacturer to prank us with an elevated sports car. Last year, Subaru of New England pulled an April Fool’s joke involving a BRZ Wilderness fitted with symmetrical all-wheel drive. Reflecting on this, given the poor sales of the BRZ, perhaps Subaru should have considered producing a few.
Do you believe BMW should create and market an M2 Dakar, or do you think the trend of off-road sports cars is simply foolish? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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BMW's M2 Dakar Concept Is So Impressive It’s Painful That It’s Only an April Fool’s Prank | Carscoops
The elevated suspension, redesigned bumper for improved approach angle, and a roof basket filled with spare parts are ideal for the smallest M model.