Allow me to begin this story with a short sentence dedicated to Sergio Marchionne, one of very few individuals who demonstrated that zeal, passion, and discipline could transform a company from multimillion-dollar losses to profitability in just two years. The automotive industry and the world mourn the loss of a true inspiration.
The economics of the automotive industry are indeed complex. Achieving profits is increasingly challenging, and technological advancements to meet ever-evolving regulations are constantly pushed to their limits. It’s a relentless environment where new generations of cars must be regularly introduced to stay ahead of the competition. Just last evening in London, I engaged in a spirited debate over dinner with an inspiring young woman embarking on a promising career. Our topic was competition and its role in fostering excellence. Whether in education, sales, or sports, competition provides a benchmark for success, inspiring others to strive for similar achievements. My charming dinner companion, however, argued that competition often corrupts and breeds negativity among peers. We agreed to disagree, concluding our discussion with a playful competition to settle the bill.
Zaid Hamid BMW M2 Competition
This competitive spirit within the automotive industry has given rise to some of the most extraordinary machines ever created. Consider road-legal race cars like the Ferrari 288 GTO, BMW E30 M3, Porsche GT1, Mercedes CLK GTR, and even the Porsche Carrera GT, whose engine was finally adapted for road use after regulation changes prevented its racing debut. None of these legendary vehicles would exist had their rivals not compelled their creators to innovate and venture into uncharted territories.
In 2018, fierce competition spanned from the realm of top speed, dominated by Bugatti, Koenigsegg, and potentially McLaren with the BP23/Speedtail, to the hot hatch segment featuring models like the Mercedes-AMG A45 and Audi RS3. This brings us to the 2019 Bmw M2. Back in 2016, I journeyed to California to experience the first M2 on Highway 1 and Laguna Seca – a challenging assignment, I admit. My conclusion was that the M2 significantly outperformed its all-wheel-drive, transverse-engine competitors. The allure of rear-wheel-drive dynamics and a refined six-cylinder engine is undeniable. Market demand for rapid acceleration led to a horsepower race between the RS3 and A45, resulting in 400-horsepower hatchbacks. What an exhilarating era for automotive enthusiasts!
The original BMW M2, while offering a magical driving experience, appeared somewhat understated next to these power-packed rivals. Something had to evolve to maintain its competitive edge. This competitive pressure propelled BMW’s M division to develop the BMW M2 Competition. It’s crucial not to confuse this with models like the BMW M3/M4 CS. The M2 will exclusively be offered in the Competition trim, a truly positive development.
The chassis was already acclaimed as a ‘shortened and widened version of the M3/4 platform.’ The significant update is the engine, now shared with its larger siblings. The 410-horsepower, twin-turbocharged, inline-six unit is exceptional. It delivers a surge of torque throughout the rev range, boasting 550Nm available from 2,350 to 5,200rpm. The carbon fiber strut, previously enhancing the front-end agility of the M3/M4, has now found its place under the hood of the 2019 BMW M2 Competition, along with sport seats and M-style mirrors.
BMW M2 Competition
Truthfully, the engine upgrade to the S55 is partially due to evolving EU regulations necessitating the inclusion of an Otto particulate filter (OPF) to mitigate fine dust pollution. Politics aside, the M2 Competition delivers impressive speed. With the M DCT transmission, 0-100km/h is achieved in a mere 4.2 seconds. The manual version, still wonderfully offered, is only marginally slower at 4.4 seconds. Rest assured, the driving experience transcends these minor fractions of a second.
Speaking of driving experience, it’s simply phenomenal. Configure the M1 and M2 steering wheel buttons to your preference, and you have instant access to driving bliss. BMW has intelligently programmed the M2 with DSC off (though not entirely deactivated) and traction control integrated into MDM (M Dynamic Mode). This is a winning combination, providing a safety net while allowing for exhilarating driving without losing control.
It’s breathtaking. The rear-wheel-drive dynamics and exceptional balance outshine everything else in its class. The manual transmission option further enhances driver engagement, offering one of the finest manual experiences available today. The DCT, however, closely rivals the best with its rapid and seamless shifts, giving even Porsche’s PDK a run for its money. Regardless of your gearbox choice, disappointment is not an option. You’ll find yourself applying more throttle earlier, subtly adjusting the steering to maintain perfect balance. The smooth power and torque delivery are readily available to help rotate the car through corners, and the rear tires grip the tarmac, propelling you towards the next apex. The upgraded M brakes are exceptional, maintaining their performance even under sustained hard use.
While the road is where most owners will relish their 2019 BMW M2 Competition, track events and M trackdays are increasingly drawing M2s to circuits globally. Given my location in Ronda, Spain, a visit to the Ascari Race Resort, one of Europe’s most demanding tracks, was essential. The M2 Competition excelled, and the enhancements over the standard M2 were palpable and enjoyable. Unlike larger models like the M3/M4, the M2 leverages its agility and nimble short wheelbase to deliver a driving experience unmatched in its segment. The fun factor is addictive, as the limits are approachable and inviting to explore. Ascari’s tarmac provides an ideal playground to experiment with the M1 and M2 buttons, allowing for independent adjustments to engine and steering settings. The options are curated – enough to cater to various driving styles without overwhelming the driver, accessible via the center console buttons.
The interior might be considered a point where the sense of occasion slightly diminishes. While BMW excels in the 5 and 7 Series interiors, the models below, including the 2019 BMW M2, feel somewhat less special, where competitors have gained an edge. There’s nothing inherently flawed; the materials are high quality, and the iDrive system is excellent, but it appears a bit dated when compared to the Mercedes A-Class. However, the exterior aesthetics, in my view, are perfectly judged – immediately aggressive yet not ostentatious or immature like a Ford Focus RS.
Returning to the overwhelming positives, it’s undeniably clear, whether driving on the road or track, that the dynamic improvements borrowed from the M3/M4 are remarkably effective. This elevates the BMW M2 Competition to a car truly in a league of its own. It’s an incredibly tempting proposition, especially when considering the prices and order books of competitors like the Audi RS3.
Perhaps my insightful sushi companion was correct – it’s not always competition that drives excellence. Sometimes, true distinction arises from being audaciously unique within a category of homogenized rivals, possessing an inherent appeal that speaks for itself. I’ve stated it before, and I reiterate: this car is unlike anything else currently available.
The most significant issue with this vehicle is its name. It shouldn’t be labeled the BMW M2 Competition but rather the BMW M2 No Competition. BMW M deserves a standing ovation.
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