The new BMW M2 CS sets a new benchmark on the legendary Nordschleife racetrack of the Nürburgring on 11 April 2025. Driven by BMW M development engineer Jörg Weidinger, it completed the 20.823-kilometre Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit in 7:25.5 minutes, beating the previous best time for compact cars by eight seconds. This record-setting BMW M2 CS not only raises the bar in the compact car class, but also further solidifies BMW M's reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance vehicles that excel both on the road and on the racetrack.

"The BMW M2 CS has achieved a significant milestone with its lap time on the Nordschleife, showcasing the potential for combining performance, technology and exceptional driving dynamics into a single vehicle," stated Franciscus van Meel, the CEO of BMW M GmbH. “We are proud that the M2 CS has once again set a new benchmark in the compact car class with this lap time.”

Following the impressive record set by the BMW M2 CS which now holds the top spot in the compact category, the BMW M3 CS Touring is now another representative of the fastest production vehicles from BMW M GmbH in the mid-size category. With a time of 7:29.490 minutes, the BMW M3 CS Touring is the fastest Touring of all time on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.

"From the very beginning, it was clear that the BMW M3 CS Touring would set new standards in dynamics. With a time under 7:30 minutes, this model impressively demonstrates that this vehicle concept perfectly combines racing DNA with everyday usability." – commented Franciscus van Meel.

The continuation of a success story

The previous best time for a BMW M2 model was set by Weidinger in April 2023, when he completed the course in 7:38.7 minutes. Two years later, he beat this time by 13 seconds, breaking the class record of 7:30 minutes for the first time. With the newly set best time, the BMW M2 CS demonstrates its outstanding performance as well as the innovative power and engineering skills of BMW M GmbH.

The new record time for the BMW M3 CS Touring marks a new benchmark in the mid-size category and is also the fastest ever recorded lap time for a Touring body style on the 20.823-kilometer-long track in the "Green Hell". In April of this year, Jörg Weidinger, BMW M development engineer and seasoned record driver, first broke the 7:30-minute barrier with a Touring Car. The previous fastest time for a Touring, set by the BMW M3 Touring in 2022, was 7:35.060 minutes.

The mid-size category is currently dominated by the latest models from the BMW M3 and M4 family. The BMW M4 CSL holds the fastest time at 7:18.137 minutes, followed by the BMW M4 CS at 7:21.989 minutes and the BMW M3 CS at 7:28.760 minutes. The new time of the BMW M3 CS Touring, just over a second behind, showcases the vehicle's extraordinary performance, reinforcing its reputation as the perfect "One Car Solution."

BMW M is at home on the Nürburgring

The origin and heart of BMW M's success story at the Nürburgring is the BMW M Test Centre. With its professional infrastructure and perfect location, it serves as the starting point for the successful development of new vehicle projects and testing under demanding conditions. The partnership between BMW M and the Nürburgring, which has thrived for over 25 years, is a great success and is visible from afar through landmarks such as the BMW M Power Grandstand and the BMW M Bridge. Through the offerings of the local BMW M Driving Experience, enthusiasts can drive BMW M vehicles themselves under professional guidance through the "Green Hell." The redesigned BMW M Power Showroom in 2021 emphasizes the significance of the Nürburgring as the home of BMW M.

The Nürburgring Nordschleife, known worldwide as one of the most challenging racetracks, serves as a proving ground for drivers and vehicles. Spanning 20.832 kilometres and featuring over 70 corners, it demands the highest performance and driving dynamics. Lap times are a benchmark for a vehicle's sporting capabilities, with record runs monitored by a neutral testing organization to ensure compliance with production standards.

The new version of this special edition offers the ultimate in driving pleasure – both as a track tool and in day-to-day use. Like the BMW M2 Racing, which is based on the chassis from the latest-generation M2, the BMW M2 CS will be manufactured at BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí in Mexico. As has become familiar with other special-edition models from BMW M GmbH, the BMW M2 CS will be produced in limited numbers. 

The new BMW M2 CS is based on the second generation of the BMW M2 and significantly improves what is already an extraordinary level of performance. For example, the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops an impressive 530 hp in the BMW M2 CS. That is 50 hp more than in the current BMW M2. As such, the BMW M2 CS matches the performance of the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and the BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. The BMW M2 CS sends its power to the rear wheels via the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which comes as standard.

Noticeable weight reduction thanks to intelligent lightweight design

BMW M GmbH has reduced the weight of the special edition by roughly 30 kilograms compared to the standard M2. This has been achieved through modifications including judicious use of lightweight design techniques. For example, the BMW M2 CS features a multitude of exterior and interior components made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). And it will be fitted as standard with forged M light-alloy wheels. As a result, the CS will be the lightest BMW M2 so far in the current generation.

Upgraded six-cylinder in-line engine with significant increase in power output and torque

For the BMW M2 CS, BMW M GmbH has opted for an upgraded version of the 3.0-litre, six-cylinder in-line engine found in the standard M2. This intensifies the performance experience in the special edition, particularly in highly dynamic driving situations. It further sharpens the engine’s unmistakable power characteristics and perfectly accentuates the linear power delivery – sustained into the higher reaches of the rev range – familiar from M models. Compared to the BMW M2 with standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, maximum torque has been raised by 50 Nm to 650 Nm and is available across a broad rev range – between 2,650 and 5,730 rpm. The engine produces its maximum power output of 530 hp at 6,250 rpm, with the engine speed topping out at 7,200 rpm. In order to allow extremely rapid reactions to the driver’s requests for acceleration and to make the improved performance characteristics of the engine a particularly intense experience, the accelerator mapping and response have been optimised in all the drive modes, which are selectable via the M Setup menu.

Racing expertise delivers inspiring performance

With its improved peak performance, the new BMW M2 CS is consolidating its claim to top spot in the compact high-performance segment. This performance specification is achieved by modifying the engine management and provides further proof of the outstanding potential of the six-cylinder in-line engine developed by BMW M GmbH, which also serves as the basis for the power unit used in the BMW M4 GT3 EVO racing car. The engine’s M TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a pair of mono-scroll turbochargers, which each supply three cylinders with compressed air, an indirect intercooler supplied by a low-temperature circuit, and an electronically controlled wastegate. The technology package also includes High Precision Injection, which operates with maximum pressure of 350 bar, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing. The engine also has an array of details borrowed directly from racing car design, including its lightning-fast response, appetite for revs and high-performance capability in track use. These details include an extremely rigid crankcase with a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction, a forged crankshaft with lightweight design, cylinder bores with a wire-arc sprayed iron coating and a 3D-printed core for the cylinder head.

The M-specific cooling system ensures the powertrain components maintain an optimal operating temperature even under heavy loads and the oil circuit is designed to handle extreme dynamic driving situations. A map-controlled oil pump ensures reliable oil supply even under extreme acceleration.

The engine sends its drive power through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic as standard. The Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever makes it possible to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics, with a choice of three clearly distinguishable settings. Both the selector lever in the latest M design and the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel enable sequential interventions in the gear selection process at any time.

BMW M2 CS breaks the four-second barrier

A model-specific engine mounting with a higher spring rate makes for a particularly rigid connection of the drive unit to the structure of the BMW M2 CS. The extremely direct transmission of power to the drivetrain optimises response. Thanks to the lightning-fast power delivery, in combination with the increased engine power and the car’s lighter weight, the BMW M2 CS is able to break the four-second barrier for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. It’s time of 3.8 seconds is 0.2 seconds faster than for the standard M2. The figure calculated using the “1-foot rollout” method is 3.5 seconds. The increase in power also enhances acceleration from rest to 200 km/h. The time required here is reduced by 1.2 seconds to 11.7 seconds – or 11.4 seconds according to the “1‑foot rollout” method. The mid-range sprint from 80 to 120 km/h takes 3.4 seconds. The top speed of the special-edition model, which comes with the M Driver’s Package as standard, is electronically limited to 302 km/h.

The dynamic power delivery is backed by an emotionally rich engine note conjured by the M-specific exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps and the four exhaust pipes typical of M, which come in matt black on the BMW M2 CS. For those wishing to retrofit their car, the M Performance silencer system with carbon and titanium tailpipe trims developed specifically for CS models is available for the first time in the range of M Performance Parts for the BMW M2 CS. The lightweight valve exhaust system with titanium mufflers generates a racing-car sound guaranteed to stir the emotions. The Active Sound Design helps to convey the engine’s soundtrack authentically inside the cabin, with the intensity raised another notch when SPORT or SPORT PLUS mode is selected using the Driving Experience Control switch.

Chassis and brakes optimised for increased performance

The chassis technology and braking system in the BMW M2 CS are precisely tailored to the improved performance characteristics of the engine and the specific weight balance of the special edition. The chassis has been lowered by eight millimetres and adapted specially for the car with bespoke tuning for its springs, dampers and chassis control systems. These modifications improve driving dynamics significantly in all scenarios – including under extremely hard driving. Indeed, the settings for the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and M Dynamic Mode have been optimised precisely to meet the demands of driving on the race track.

The standard adaptive M chassis has been given a carefully adapted model-specific setup, as have the M Servotronic steering, M Sport differential and the integrated braking system. An M Compound braking system with red brake callipers, which comes as standard, provides powerful retardation. An M Carbon ceramic brake system with red brake callipers is available as an option. Standard equipment also includes CS-exclusive forged M light-alloy wheels with a double-spoke design and matt Gold Bronze finish. They measure 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear axle and are fitted as standard with track tyres, the dimensions of which are 275/35 ZR19 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear. An ultra-track tyre and a standard sport tyre (a no-cost option) in the same dimensions are available on request.

Exterior features many carbon components and exclusive details

The punchy exterior of the BMW M2 CS is shaped by many components made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and other exclusive details. As well as the M exterior mirror caps familiar from the BMW M2, the M Carbon roof – which comes as standard on the special-edition model – and CS-specific rear diffusor are also made from eye-catching exposed carbon fibre. A front splitter in matt black and an exclusive black BMW M kidney grille with optimised air inlets complete the sporty and dynamic look. The lightweight CFRP boot lid with integrated ducktail is a real head-turner. The “M2 CS” logo on the rear has a red outline. Four colours are available for the exterior finish of the new BMW M2 CS: Sapphire Black metallic, BMW Individual Velvet Blue metallic, M Brooklyn Grey metallic and M Portimao Blue metallic. Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling High Beam Assistant and M lights Shadowline with dark inlays are also standard.

Carbon and racing flair continue inside

The interior of the new BMW M2 CS combines an exclusive look with the sporty feel of exquisite Alcantara and innovative lightweight design. For example, the centre console is made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The driver and passenger take their places in weight-optimised, heated M Carbon bucket seats with a wide range of electrically controlled settings and an illuminated “CS” logo. The integrated head restraints are removable and, thanks to the option of integrating multi-point harnesses, improve the car’s track readiness. The surfaces of the seats are finished in Merino leather.

With a flat-bottomed rim, gearshift paddles, a red centre marker at 12 o’clock and two M buttons for selecting individually configured vehicle setups, the standard M Alcantara steering wheel – which is available in a heated version as an option and features a three-spoke design – brings authentic racing flair to the cockpit. The trim elements in the instrument panel and centre console come in M Carbon Fibre. Additional specific details include the red “CS” logo on the centre console, the M seatbelts and the entry door sill plates, which are black with an “M2 CS” logo and red outline for the first time. Now illuminated with the “CS” logo, the door trim panels certainly grab the attention. 

BMW Operating System 8.5, digital control for the climate functions

Standard equipment in the new BMW M2 CS also includes two-zone automatic climate control, comfort access, the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and BMW Live Cockpit Professional, including the BMW Maps navigation system. As well as the BMW Head-Up Display, it also includes Augmented View on the control display. The standard smartphone integration allows the use of Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The M-specific displays on the BMW Curved Display and BMW Head-Up Display add to the progressive sports car flair in the cockpit.

The fully-digital display grouping consists of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display. These serve as a platform for the BMW iDrive control and operation system, based on BMW Operating System 8.5, which can also be used to digitally operate the climate control functions. In the BMW M2 CS, temperature and ventilation settings, heated seats and the heated steering wheel (if specified) can be controlled either by touch using a special menu option in the lower area of the control display or by voice command with the help of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

M-specific operating concept enables direct access for an extensive range of functions

The special-edition model carries over the cutting-edge operating concept for setup customisation from the BMW M2. At the heart is the Setup button on the centre console. This provides direct access to the settings options for the engine, standard adaptive M suspension, M Servotronic steering, integrated braking system working in conjunction with the M Compound brakes, and the M Traction Control function, which allows drivers to set individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation. M Drive Professional makes an ideal companion for journeys fuelled by extra adrenaline. The M mode TRACK and the ten-stage M Traction Control allow customised handling characteristics. The M Drift Analyser shows the angle and duration of drifts executed by the driver, while the M Laptimer is ideal for those striving for the perfect lap.

Semi-automated driving and parking systems fitted as standard include front collision warning, Cruise Control with brake function, Speed Limit Info function with no-overtaking indicator, Lane Departure Warning, and the Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant. Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function and the Driving Assistant can be added as optional equipment.