What’s new for 2025?

The 2025 BMW M2 carries over its core architecture but receives targeted updates such as horsepower riding to 473 (up from 453 in 2024) while torque increases on automatic-equipped models. The infotainment system is upgraded to BMW’s latest iDrive 8.5 interface with revised graphics and quicker processing. New exterior colors and interior trim options are available as well. The platform, rear-wheel-drive layout and overall dimensions remain unchanged.

Looks

The M2 gets more handsome the more you live with it, and especially if you wash it by hand and become up-close-and-familiar with its squared-off stance, its pronounced fender flares and wide track.

A short wheelbase and compact proportions give it an almost bulldog-like posture. The front fascia features the signature large, rectangular air intakes and a simplified kidney grille design. In the back, you get quad exhaust outlets and a classy sculpted bumper. Standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels fill the wells with a solidity a sporty car like this benefits from. Watch out you don’t chew the rims when parallel parking.

Inside

Optional carbon bucket seats offer a track-flavored setup, and you feel ready for the track with your mix of leather, Alcantara and aluminum trim. The layout is minimalist compared to previous BMW generations, with fewer physical buttons, but the volume knob, bingo, is right there, so no complaints.

Tech

The M2 features BMW’s curved display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. The iDrive 8.5 system includes navigation, voice control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates.

A head-up display, wireless charging, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system are available. Performance-focused tech includes configurable M Drive modes, traction control settings and an integrated lap timer. Press a little red button at the top of the steering wheel, and you’re a hasty, impatient son-of-a-gun. You’ll enjoy hours figuring it all out, and seeing what you can do.

Engine, weight, transmission, mileage, price

Power comes from a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six producing 473 horsepower and up to 406 lb-ft of torque in automatic form. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while an eight-speed automatic – my tester - is optional. The car weighs a hefty 3,814 pounds and mileage is rated around 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Base pricing starts at approximately $65,000 before options.

How is the drive?

It’s fun as hell whether accelerating, stopping, handling or whizzing around town. It delivers a solid, satisfying rear-wheel-drive punch combined with a deliciously balanced chassis. Steering is quick and direct and the suspension tuning prioritizes control over “comfort.” It’s got a nice broad powerband at any speed – use the paddle and bing, you’re where you want to be. It goes where you put it on the highway, meaning passing and whipping around slower vehicles when warranted feels easy and effortless. The drive is the funnest part of the car.

Depending on your physical size, it may be a challenge getting in and out, and it’s not a car you sit in and read a book. But when you’re rolling, you got no complaints.

Room for improvement

The ride quality can be firm on uneven pavement, meaning “Ride ‘em, cowboy” in some parking lots or dirt roads. Rear seat space is limited, typical in sports cars of this type. Visibility to the rear is somewhat restricted by the design of the roofline and rear pillars. The reliance on touchscreen controls for certain functions may require additional driver attention, and one should pay keep one’s eyes on the road.

Safety features

You’re covered with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. Available features include adaptive cruise control, parking assistance, and a surround-view camera system. Stability and traction control systems are configurable to allow varying levels of driver intervention.

Conclusion: The M2 is a fiery, satisfying offering in BMW’s lineup, worth your time and tire-kick. Check out the M3 and M4, too, for more ferocity.