BMW enthusiasts in South Africa can officially mark their calendars for 2026, as the Bavarian automaker has confirmed the arrival of its most potent M2 model yet – the second-generation BMW M2 CS. Publicly showcased for the first time at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como in Italy, the high-performance coupe is set to redefine driving thrills in its segment.
A Limited-Edition Masterpiece
Reviving the CS (Club Sport) nameplate after its debut on the original M2 CS in 2019, this new iteration is billed by BMW as the epitome of driving pleasure. Like its predecessor, the upcoming M2 CS will be a limited-run model, adding exclusivity to its blistering performance credentials.
Though it shares its foundations with the M2 Competition, the CS model takes things further with 30 kg of weight reduction, achieved through widespread use of carbon fibre and other lightweight components. This includes carbon mirror caps, a carbon roof, an exposed carbon rear diffuser, and a ducktail-style carbon bootlid, all designed to enhance both aesthetics and aerodynamics.
Aggressive Styling with M Precision
The M2 CS separates itself visually with a distinctive M front bumper featuring a matte black splitter, enlarged air intakes, and a signature bulging bonnet. It also comes standard with the Shadowline exterior package and Adaptive LED headlights, reinforcing its sporty intent. The model sits on staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear M alloy wheels, finished in matte gold bronze, and is available in four paint finishes: Sapphire Black Metallic, Brooklyn Grey Metallic, Portimao Blue Metallic, and Velvet Blue Metallic from BMW Individual.
Under the bonnet lies a revised version of BMW’s 3.0-litre S58 twin-turbo straight-six engine, now delivering an impressive 390 kW and 650 Nm—a significant increase over the 338 kW/550 Nm output of the standard M2 Competition. The power is exclusively sent to the rear wheels through an enhanced eight-speed Steptronic transmission—no manual option this time.
Thanks to the M Driver’s Package included as standard, the M2 CS rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 302 km/h, making it the fastest and most powerful M2 to date.
Track-Focused Engineering
Beyond raw power, the M2 CS has been reengineered for razor-sharp dynamics. It features a revised M Adaptive chassis, lower ride height, new M Sport differential, updated cooling system, and recalibrated M modes and Dynamic Stability Control. A new titanium exhaust system with lightweight valves and Active Sound technology adds both performance and drama.
Braking power comes from standard M Compound brakes, with an option to upgrade to M Carbon ceramic brakes, available with gold or red calipers.
Carbon and Alcantara Interior
The weight-saving philosophy continues inside, where the M2 CS features a centre console and seat backs crafted from carbon fibre. Occupants are treated to heated M Carbon bucket seats trimmed in Merino leather, with illuminated CS logos and optional M colour detailing. Additional highlights include an Alcantara-trimmed M Sport steering wheel, anthracite roofliner, illuminated CS door sills, red accents throughout, and exclusive CS badging.
The M2 CS is built at BMW’s San Luis Potosí Plant in Mexico, alongside the standard M2 and 2 Series Coupe. While international markets like Europe, China, and the U.S. will see the model before the end of 2025, South African buyers can expect the M2 CS in the second quarter of 2026. Local pricing has yet to be announced, but it’s anticipated to carry a significant premium over the current M2 Competition Steptronic, which starts at R1,570,988.
Key Features of the 2026 BMW M2 CS
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-litre S58 twin-turbo inline-six |
| Power Output | 390 kW |
| Torque | 650 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h Time | 3.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 302 km/h (with standard M Driver’s Package) |
| Transmission | 8-speed Steptronic (no manual available) |
| Weight Reduction | 30 kg lighter than M2 Competition |
| Chassis Enhancements | Lower ride height, revised suspension and damping |
| Exhaust System | Titanium with Active Sound technology |
| Brakes | Standard M Compound or optional M Carbon ceramic |
| Wheels | 19-inch front / 20-inch rear matte gold bronze alloys |
| Exterior Materials | Extensive use of carbon fibre (roof, diffuser, bootlid, mirrors) |
| Interior Materials | Carbon fibre trim, Merino leather, Alcantara steering wheel |
| Seats | Heated M Carbon bucket seats with illuminated CS logos |
| Exterior Paint Options | Sapphire Black, Brooklyn Grey, Portimao Blue, Velvet Blue (Individual) |
| Production Location | San Luis Potosí Plant, Mexico |
| South African Launch Date | Q2 2026 |
| Starting Price (Europe) | €115,000 (Approx. R2,338,334) |
The M2 CS promises to be a standout in BMW’s high-performance lineup—offering track-ready capability, aggressive styling, and everyday usability in one exclusive package.
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