BMW M2 CS: BMW has officially taken the wraps off the 2026 M2 CS, and it’s shaping up to be the most powerful rear-wheel-drive M car the brand has ever built.
With production scheduled to begin this August at BMW’s plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, the new M2 CS combines race-ready performance with a more aggressive design—and a price tag that reflects its exclusivity.
2026 BMW M2 CS
Under the hood, the new M2 CS is powered by a 523-horsepower twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering 479 lb-ft of torque. That’s a boost of 50 horsepower and 36 lb-ft over the standard 2025 M2, and a significant 79 hp increase over the previous-generation M2 CS.
This version of the S58 engine is borrowed from the M3 Competition xDrive, though tuned slightly below the 543-hp M3 CS. Unlike many of its M siblings, the M2 CS remains rear-wheel drive only, making it a purist’s delight—but only if you’re okay with one compromise: it’s automatic-only. The new CS ditches the manual transmission entirely, coming standard with BMW’s eight-speed automatic gearbox.
2026 BMW M2 CS Performance
BMW claims the 2026 M2 CS can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, topping out at an electronically limited 188 mph. The chassis receives substantial upgrades, including stiffer springs, recalibrated adaptive dampers, and an updated M Dynamic Mode for enhanced cornering confidence and drift potential.
The ride height has also been lowered by 0.2 inches, giving the M2 CS a sharper stance and better weight balance during aggressive driving. These changes are aimed at delivering superior performance on both road and track compared to the standard M2.
Weight Reduction and Race-Grade Components
The M2 CS comes with a focused weight reduction program, shedding nearly 100 pounds compared to the base model. Thanks to carbon-fiber components like the roof, trunk lid, mirror caps, and rear diffuser, curb weight comes in at approximately 3,770 pounds. Standard forged aluminum wheels and carbon-backed racing seats further contribute to its leaner build.
For drivers looking to cut even more weight, BMW offers carbon-ceramic brakes as an $8,500 option.
2026 BMW M2 CS Design
Visually, the 2026 M2 CS retains the M2’s familiar muscular design but with track-inspired upgrades. The functional ducktail spoiler, carbon trim, and optimized air intakes make it clear that performance is the priority. Inside, the car features exclusive CS badging, race-style M carbon bucket seats, and minimalistic but high-quality trim.
2026 BMW M2 CS Pricing and Availability
The 2026 BMW M2 CS is priced at $99,775, which makes it roughly $30,000 more than the standard 2025 M2. However, it’s still about $25,000 less than the M4 CS, positioning it as a relatively accessible option for buyers seeking high-end M performance without breaking into six figures.
BMW hasn’t released a firm on-sale date, but deliveries are expected to begin later in 2025, following production launch in August.
The 2026 BMW M2 CS marks a return to what many M enthusiasts love: rear-wheel-drive dynamics, real power gains, and a focus on performance-first engineering. While the lack of a manual transmission might disappoint some, the overall package is one of the most thrilling and focused M cars available today.
With limited production, race-bred enhancements, and a future-collector vibe, the M2 CS stands out as BMW M’s ultimate compact performance coupe for 2026.