A New Compact King Emerges at the Nurburgring | Carscoops

      The BMW M2 CS, set to launch later this year, is already making headlines for its record-breaking performance.

      The 2026 M2 CS has claimed the title of the fastest compact car on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, completing the 12.9-mile track in an impressive 7:25.5, surpassing the previous record by eight seconds.

      With a starting price of $98,600, the M2 CS features a twin-turbo inline-six engine that produces 523 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque.

      BMW introduced the M2 CS in May, and the company later announced its remarkable lap time at the Nürburgring, officially designating it the “fastest compact car” on the challenging circuit.

      The record was achieved on April 11 by BMW M development engineer Jörg Weidinger, who improved the previous record time by eight seconds. The automaker did not disclose the previous record holder or vehicle, but FastestLaps indicates a previous M2 completed the Nordschleife in 7:33.91.

      Additionally, BMW noted that the prior best time for an M2 was recorded in April 2023, when Weidinger finished the course in 7:38.7, suggesting that the past fastest compact car was not an M2.

      Regardless, the lap time is remarkable, made possible by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine generating 523 hp (390 kW / 530 PS) and 479 lb-ft (649 Nm) of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowing the rear-wheel-drive coupe to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.7 seconds, with a top speed of 188 mph (303 km/h).

      In addition to a more powerful engine, the M2 CS incorporates several carbon fiber elements such as the roof, mirror caps, and diffuser, contributing to a weight reduction of 97 lbs (44 kg) compared to an M2 with an automatic transmission.

      The M2 CS is equipped with forged alloy wheels and a lowered suspension featuring unique springs and dampers. It also includes model-specific engine mounts, M compound brakes, and an upgraded M Sport differential.

      This is just a brief summary of the enhancements; the M2 CS is expected to launch this summer, priced at $98,600 plus a $1,175 destination charge, bringing the total to $99,775 before optional features and potential price hikes.