Next-Generation BMW M2 Starts to Take Shape

• bmw m has posted photos of a prototype for the next-generation m2.
• it has a wider body than the 2-series coupe and is packing considerably more horsepower. a manual transmission is rumored.
• we expect the new m2 to debut later this year.
  

we like the latest generation of the bmw 2-series coupe quite a bit, but the high-performance m2 is what enthusiasts are really waiting for. bmw m gave us a taste of what's to come by posting these photos of a camouflaged m2 prototype on instagram and announcing that it will start production at the company's plant in mexico by the end of this year.

the m2 has a considerably wider body than the 2-series coupe, with the difference especially noticeable around the rear haunches. we can also see quad exhaust tips, larger wheels and tires, and a few extra vents for enhanced cooling. the m2's interior likely won't be that different than the standard 2-series coupe's, meaning it'll offer a usable set of rear seats unlike many of its sports-car competitors.

the outgoing m2 used the s55 twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, which produced 405 hp in the competition model. bmw may switch the new model to a version of the s58 twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six that makes 473 hp in the base version of the m3 and m4. it likely won't have as much power as those cars, but it'll have to sit somewhere in the mid-400-hp range in order to provide a significant boost over its predecessor and the current m240i's single-turbo b58 engine, which makes 382 hp.

thankfully, we've heard rumors that bmw will continue to offer a manual transmission in the m2 despite removing that option from the base 230i and m240i models. it'll likely be the same six-speed unit from the m3. we're not sure if the automatic-transmission option will be a dual-clutch unit, like the last m2's, or the torque-converter eight-speed auto from the m3 competition.

look for more official information to come within the next few months, as we expect bmw to reveal the new m2 in the fall before it goes on sale by the end of the year.

source:caranddriver.com