Top Gear’s Former Stig Tests BMW M2

Ben Collins of former Top Gear fame sets out to review the BMW M2.

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The latest BMW M2 is the BMW that tries to recapture the essence of the BMW 2002 Turbo chassis.  The formula is there.  It’s a two-door vehicle with a short wheelbase, a monstrous engine, and rear wheel drive.  BMW has gone away from their large naturally aspirated engines for the M-series vehicles, but the 3.0-liter, turbocharged inline-six provides tremendous power and torque down low, while adding fuel efficiency into the mix.

With 370 horsepower available, it’s easy to have some fun with the M2.  The shortened wheelbase and chassis set up allow for a more playful and slightly more intense drive.

The BMW M2 essentially comes with two options available in the U.S.  Outside of three color choices, a customer can choose an executive package, which comes with park distance control, a rear view camera, heated steering wheel, speed limit information, active driving assistant, and automatic high beams.  Perhaps, more importantly, the M2 comes standard with a manual transmission.  Those that may be caught up in a bit more traffic may want to opt for the M-Double Clutch transmission.

Overall, the BMW M2 captures an essence of the BMW 2002 Turbo.  The power help compensates for increased weight, but the agility of the chassis remains.  Great focus is required to keep the car in line, and that helps add some thrill and excitement for a spirited drive.

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With a starting price of $51,700 base MSRP (based off the bmwusa.com website), the M2 stands apart from other competitors.  The Audi S3 and Mercedes Benz C450 AMG could be considered competitors, but for the U.S. market, it truly stands alone in regards to its’ competition.

Can you think of other new, spirited cars in the price range?  Let us know in the comments!