Available in a simplified ‘Pure’ version ($93,300), that makes spec sacrifices in the name of lightweighting, and the full-fat Coupe variant ($99,900), the M2 is the performance flagship of the 2 Series range, built by BMW M, the company’s specialist racing and performance subsidiary in Munich.

BMW claims the manual will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.5sec, while the dual-clutch is two tenths quicker at just 4.3sec.

The Pure makes do with manual seat adjustment and a base (yet, still seven speaker) audio package, but features 19-inch BMW M light alloy wheels, an M rear spoiler, quad exhaust pipes in high-gloss chrome, bi-LED headlights (with variable light distribution, including cornering lights), ‘Dakota’ leather upholstery, carbon fibre trim finishers, an M leather multi-function steering wheel, cruise control (with braking function), ‘Driving Assistant’, ‘Rear Park Distance Control’, and a reversing camera.

The M2 Coupe ($99,900) reinstates electric seat adjustment, plugs in the 12-speaker, 360W harman/kardon sound system, and adds ‘Comfort access’ (keyless entry and start), ‘Adaptive LED Headlights’ (with variable light distribution), and ‘Selective Beam with anti-glare High-Beam Assistant’.
The M2’s 3.0-litre turbo in-line six produces 272kW at 6500rpm, and 465Nm from just 1400-5650rpm (500Nm from 1450-4750rpm on overboost), driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, although a six speed-manual is a no-cost option (and standard on the M2 Pure).

As you might expect, the M2 is thirstiest of all 2 Series models, the dual-clutch auto consuming 7.9L/100km (185g/km), while the six-speed manual version slurps 8.5L/100km (199g/km).

Across the mainstream 2 Series line-up (220i to M240i) driver assistance tech including AEB, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection and lane departure warning is standard.

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