The 2026 BMW M2 CS is 100 pounds lighter and gains 50 horsepower, but it does not offer a manual transmission.

      BMW

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      I have consistently maintained that to own a true BMW M car, one must opt for a special version, such as the recent "CS" models. The F87-generation BMW M2 didn’t quite measure up to the 1M it succeeded until the arrival of the M2 CS. Similarly, the F90-generation M5 felt large and lackluster until the introduction of the M5 CS, which I assert is the finest sedan I've ever experienced. Now, the new 2026 BMW M2 CS aims to emulate that success, and it certainly has the specifications to achieve it.

      BMW has already revealed the appearance of the M2 CS at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Lake Como. Although the visual changes are minimal, its integrated ducktail spoiler adds significant visual appeal. Consequently, the M2 CS appears much more thrilling compared to the relatively plain M2. (Though those colors are certainly eye-catching).

      However, what's more crucial lies behind its distinctive square kidney grilles and under its pronounced fenders.

      BMW

      The output from its 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six has been increased from 473 horsepower to an impressive 523 horsepower, with torque rising from 443 lb-ft to 479 lb-ft. Purists will be pleased to know that all this power is still directed exclusively to the rear wheels. Nonetheless, this purist joy may be short-lived, as the M2 CS will only offer an automatic transmission—the same eight-speed ZF transmission utilized in all other M cars. BMW claims that the throttle responses and gear shifts have been specifically tuned for CS performance to make them more immediate.

      Additionally, BMW has managed to reduce the weight by 100 pounds from the standard automatic M2 using carbon fiber for aerodynamic and interior components, along with standard lightweight forged wheels. The combination of increased power and decreased curb weight leads to a claimed zero to 60 mph time of 3.7 seconds, which is four-tenths faster than the standard M2. Typically, BMWs perform better than their claimed times, so I expect this one will too. However, it still weighs 3,770 pounds, so it hasn’t suddenly become lightweight.

      BMW

      Where I hope BMW has focused its efforts the most is in the suspension. The standard M2 is certainly not a subpar sports car; it is capable, grippy, sharp, and exceedingly proficient. Its drawback is that it can be almost too adept, making fast driving feel overly simplistic and artificial. However, BMW has made several adjustments to the suspensions in previous CS models—modifying bushings, ball joints, and any component that connects the car to the ground—to significantly enhance the driving feel. It appears that a similar approach has been applied here. The M2 CS features unique springs, dampers, and "chassis control systems." Minor tweaks have also been made to the adaptive suspension, Servtronic steering, and rear differential, and it sits 0.2 inches lower than before. Track and “ultra track” tires are available at no extra cost.

      Inside, the M2 CS resembles the standard M2 but features a flat-bottomed steering wheel covered in Alcantara. It continues to have BMW M’s recent “torture chamber” seats (I personally like them, although many BMW enthusiasts do not), and includes several “CS” badges throughout.

      BMW has been reserving its best features for CS models, almost making them the true M cars. I’m hopeful that this new M2 CS possesses that same captivating quality. BMW has yet to announce pricing, but the previous generation M2 CS started at $84,595. It wouldn’t surprise me if this model approached six figures.

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