The New BMW M2 CS Unveiled, and That Ducktail Is Indeed Authentic | Carscoops

      The new flagship model of the BMW M2 lineup is anticipated to be lighter and more powerful than its bigger counterpart.

      Recently, the first images of the new BMW M2 CS have emerged ahead of its full reveal scheduled for next week.

      The revised 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine generates 523 hp, an increase from the standard M2’s 453 hp.

      Visually, this model distinguishes itself with a ducktail spoiler, an aggressive bumper, and a unique grille.

      Update: It seems BMW couldn’t resist unveiling the first official images of the new M2 CS during the opening of the 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. In addition to the silver car featured in the press release, we also have live pictures of a blue variant from the event.

      This show, celebrated for showcasing luxury classics alongside new reveals, also witnessed the world premiere of the Speedtop concept, which will be produced in a limited run of 70 units.

      While BMW is withholding complete specifications until Tuesday, May 27, as we indicated in our scoop story below, the takeaway is straightforward: increased power and reduced weight. To highlight the figures, the car sees a significant boost of 50 hp, raising the total output to 523 hp, along with torque increasing to a robust 479 lb-ft. This should be ample to propel the smallest M car into high-performance territory.

      Additionally, we glimpse into the interior, where it appears the M2 CS will follow BMW's trend of automatic-only transmissions for its high-performance models, akin to the M3 and M4 CS. Therefore, it won't feature a manual option.

      The new images also verify several anticipated design elements. The M2 CS incorporates a substantial CSL-style ducktail spoiler integrated into the carbon-fiber reinforced trunk lid, along with stout bronze wheels fitted with wider, grip-focused tires. The front end sports a distinctive look, featuring a unique kidney grille that eliminates the traditional slats, except for one horizontal bar in the center. The rest of the front bumper adopts a similarly bold style, with large air intakes following the same streamlined design.

      John Halas contributed to this article.

      When BMW initially presented the second-generation M2, many believed it might be too large and heavy to match the legacy of its predecessor. However, the new BMW has demonstrated itself as an outstanding sports car, and an even better version will soon arrive with the launch of the CS variant.

      Sharper, Lighter, Faster

      BMW has been extensively testing the flagship version of the M2, and our spy photographers have captured it once again, this time with a bit less camouflage and a set of striking gold-finished wheels.

      To ensure this enhanced version of the M2 earns the CS designation, its front bumper has undergone significant alterations, featuring a sharper splitter and redesigned air intakes, which give it a much more aggressive appearance compared to the standard model. The updates continue at the rear with a prominent lip spoiler and a slightly modified bumper and diffuser setup.

      While the M2 CS will have a more daring look compared to the standard model, the most crucial changes will be under the hood. Similar to the base model, power will originate from a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine, but output will see a notable ascent to 523 hp. This will grant the M2 CS more power than the rear-wheel-drive BMW M4 Competition, which produces 503 hp, promising an exhilarating driving experience.

      BMW’s engineers are also expected to implement clever strategies to reduce weight, enhancing the car's power-to-weight ratio even more. Perhaps the only potentially disappointing news for enthusiasts is that the M2 CS will likely only be offered with an eight-speed automatic transmission, foregoing the six-speed manual option.