2026 BMW M2 CS Globally Debuts with 523bhp and Track-Focused Upgrades

The 2026 BMW M2 CS has been officially revealed, bringing sharper performance and reduced weight to BMW’s compact M car lineup. Powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-six engine, the M2 CS delivers 523bhp and 650Nm of torque, making it the most powerful M2 ever produced. It is offered exclusively with rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, emphasising a purist driving experience. Weight-saving measures include a carbon fibre roof, rear spoiler, and other lightweight components, shaving off around 30 kg. The result is a sharper, faster M2 capable of reaching up to 302km/h.

2026 BMW M2 CS: Design Details

In terms of design, the new M2 CS evolves the look of the standard M2 with subtle but purposeful enhancements that reflect its track-ready intent. A prominent addition is the sculpted ducktail spoiler at the rear, which not only boosts aerodynamic stability at high speeds but also visually signals the car’s performance focus.

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The display model comes in a muted slate grey finish, offset by striking gold multi-spoke wheels. These are likely matched with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.

2026 BMW M2 CS: Powertrain

BMW has unveiled the M2 CS with a serious performance upgrade, led by a recalibrated 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine. Designated S58, this unit now produces 523bhp and 650Nm of torque – offering a marked boost over the automatic-equipped 2025 M2 and bringing it in line with the more powerful M4 Competition xDrive. That said, fans of manual shifting will be disappointed to learn that this version is automatic-only, unlike the older F87 M2 CS, which offered a six-speed manual.

Engineers have also managed to shave off weight without fully stripping the car. In the U.S., the M2 CS weighs 1,710 kg after dropping 44 kg; in Europe, it is slightly lighter at around 1,700 kg, thanks to a 30 kg reduction. The rear seats are retained, signaling its dual role as both a road car and weekend track toy. The lighter build is attributed to extensive use of carbon fibre and a new set of 19-inch forged wheels finished in matte Gold Bronze, contributing to form and function.

These changes translate into sharper acceleration. The 0–100km/h dash now takes 3.7 seconds, two-tenths quicker than before. Top speed is electronically limited to 302km/h, 17km/h quicker than the standard M2.

2026 BMW M2 CS: Cabin Layout and Feature Details

The interior mirrors the car’s performance ambitions. Occupants are seated in specially designed M Carbon bucket seats trimmed in Alcantara and Black Merino leather, with trademark M stitching. Designed with serious driving in mind, these seats are lighter than the standard ones, have detachable headrests for helmet use, and allow for racing harness installation.

The Alcantara-wrapped M steering wheel features dual M mode buttons, paddle shifters, a flat-bottom design, and a red 12 o’clock marker. Carbon fibre accents stretch across the dashboard and centre tunnel, which also displays a bold red “CS” emblem. Additional premium touches include ambient door lighting that reveals exposed carbon when turned off, illuminated door sills with CS badging, an M Anthracite roofliner, and M-branded seatbelts.

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As with other special-edition models from BMW M GmbH, the BMW M2 CS will be available in limited quantities. Its primary markets include the United States, Germany, and China. Sales are scheduled to begin in late summer 2025.