2026 BMW M2 CS: Power-Boosted Performance—Is the Manual Gone?

The 2026 BMW M2 CS is here to excite with more power and a luxurious touch, though it seems to forgo the manual transmission. Let’s dive into what sets this thrilling new model apart.

Engine and Performance

- Engine: 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six S58
- Power Output: 523 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque
- Comparison with Regular M2: 473 hp and 443 lb-ft (automatic)
- Previous M2 CS: 444 hp and 406 lb-ft

- Acceleration & Speed:
- 0-60 mph: Estimated 3.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 188 mph
- Curiously, the pre-refresh 2023 M2 achieved 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, suggesting even faster real-world speeds for the CS.

Weight Reduction and Design

- Curb Weight: 3,770 pounds, 97 pounds lighter than the regular model
- Weight-Saving Features:
- Carbon fiber reinforced plastic components
- Forged alloy wheels

Interior and Comfort

- Seats: M Carbon bucket with light-up CS logos
- Driver Adjustments: Multi-point harness integration, helmet-friendly head restraints
- Suspension: Lowered for track performance

Exterior and Colors

- Design Elements:
- Exclusive rear diffuser
- Integrated ducktail spoiler
- Badging

- Color Options:
- Standard: Portimao Blue, Black Sapphire, Brooklyn Grey
- Premium Option: BMW Individual Velvet Blue (+$3,000)

Modern Features

- Technology:
- Head-up display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- BMW Operating System 8.5 for iDrive

Pricing and Availability

- Base Price: $99,775 (including fees)
- A significant rise from the 2020 CS’s $84,595
- Regular M2 starts at $69,375, marking a nearly 50% price increase for the CS

Conclusion

The 2026 BMW M2 CS promises to elevate performance with its powerful engine and weight-saving design. With a substantial price tag and no manual option, the enhancements must justify the cost, which we will discover as deliveries begin in Q3.

  

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