Local pricing and specifications for the 2018 BMW M2 range have been announced this week, with the updated performance coupe gaining enhanced styling and technological features for the new model year.
The update forms part of BMW’s LCI program, or ‘life-cycle impulse’, which is the German car maker’s term for a mid-life update.
Now starting at $93,300 for the M2 Pure (up $3090), the range gets the company’s new 8.8-inch iDrive 6 touchscreen infotainment system, and refreshed LED tail-lights in an L-shaped pattern.
Both variants also get revised headlights: The M2 Pure features Bi-LEDs with the familiar circular to the LED daytime-running lights, while the $99,900 M2 (up $790) gets adaptive LEDs with new hexagonal driving lights.
Inside, there’s also a new driver instrument display that “features M-specific content”, along with redesigned wiper and indicator stalks – which, thanks to customer feedback, have been revised to ‘snap’ into a locked position.
Under the bonnet is the same 3.0-litre turbocharged straight six, developing 272kW of power at 6500rpm and 465Nm of torque from 1400 to 5650rpm. The M2’s powerplant also features an overboost function that increases torque to 500Nm between 1450 and 4750rpm for short periods of time.
When equipped with the seven-speed M dual-clutch transmission, the M2 will sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds. Should you opt for the six-speed manual – the sole shifter for the M2 Pure – the little coupe will hit triple figures in a still-respectable 4.5 seconds.
Fuel consumption, meanwhile, is rated at 7.9L/100km with the DCT, while manual models are rated at 8.5L/100km.
Standard equipment for the manual-only M2 Pure includes 19-inch M light alloy wheels, an M rear spoiler, quad exhaust tips in chrome, bi-LED headlights with variable light distribution and cornering lights, ‘Dakota’ leather upholstery, carbon-fibre trim inserts, climate control, an M leather multi-function steering wheel, tyre pressure monitor, cruise control, rear-view camera with rear parking sensors, and a seven-speaker audio system.
Opting for the full-fat M2 adds keyless access, electric seat adjustment, a 12-speaker harman/kardon sound system, adaptive LED headlights, and high beam assist.
The updated BMW M2 range is available now, with the first cars expected in Australian showrooms from September.
Note: Overseas model shown
2018 BMW M2 pricing
M2 Pure (6MT) – $93,300 (+$3090)
M2 (6MT/7DCT) – $99,900 (+$790)
Prices exclude on-road costs.
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