2016 BMW M2 launched in Malaysia; Priced from RM499k

Following its global unveil not too long ago, the all-new 2016 BMW M2 Coupe makes landfall in Malaysia, being priced at RM498,800 on-the-road excluding insurance.

Based upon the fundamentals of the F22 2 Series Coupe, the M2 takes over from the manic 1 Series M Coupe as the entry-level M model. Like its predecessor, it is also touted as the spiritual successor of the original E30 M3 and the even more rarefied 2002 Turbo that came before it.

"The new BMW M2 Coupe is a very special car. There are only very limited numbers of this car produced worldwide and we are very lucky to be able to have units for Malaysia in celebration of the 100 Years Anniversary of the BMW Group," said Mr Raymond Tan, BMW Group Malaysia's Head of Sales.

Whilst this is not BMW M’s first project with the F22 chassis, the M2 should not be confused with the M235i which, despite seemingly common components outwardly, is part of the more easygoing M Performance vehicle family that sits between mainstream BMW models and full-blooded M cars.

Powering the M2 is a fresh derivative of BMW’s 3.0-litre N55 six-cylinder engine that punches out 370hp and 465Nm; a significant step up from the M235i’s 326hp and 450Nm.

If mated with a 6-speed manual transmission, the M2 will complete the century sprint in a rapid 4.5 seconds yet is rated with commendably frugal consumption of 8.5 litres/100km in the combined test cycle (CO₂ – 199 g/km).

Swapping the stick shifter out for the M DCT transmission (which is fitted standard for Malaysia-bound cars) takes 0.2 seconds off the 0-100km/h time – thanks to the integration of launch control – and further improves fuel economy to 7.9 litres/100km (CO_2­ – 185 g/km). Top speed is capped at 250km/h.

Despite its highly-focused performance orientation, the BMW M2 comes fitted with a decent number of amenities. As with mainstream BMW models, the M2 is offered with a range of innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive.

Regular track goers will appreciate the GoPro and M Laptimer apps to film and record telemetry such as speed, acceleration, engine speed, G-forces, gear selection, steering angle, throttle pressure, and fuel consumption for analysis… or just to show off.

Other notable features fitted in the M2 include:

• 19-inch forged aluminium wheels with staggered tyres
• Sports exhaust with twin tailpipes
• lightweight aluminium M Sport suspension
• Active M Differential
• M compound brakes
• Alcantara upholstery
• Navigation System Professional

The M2 does not currently have a direct competitor from BMW’s rival brands, but it will be interesting to see if there will be another M2 to accompany the next-generation 2 Series Coupe, which is likely to switch to transverse engine underpinnings based on the modular UKL platform. Such a vehicle, if BMW decides to make one, will compete more directly with other high-performance transverse-engine models such as the Mercedes-AMG A 45 and CLA 45, Audi RS 3, and perhaps even the Volkswagen Golf R. Otherwise, we are looking at a real collector's item here.

Due to limited availability, initial shipment of the M2 Coupe consists of only two units, although allocation of additional units is being requested by BMW Group Malaysia to meet strong demand for the vehicle. Like all mainstream BMW models, the M2 Coupe is covered by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, 5-year free service, and BMW's Tyre Warranty Programme.