BMW unleashed a new generation of its M2 compact coupe for 2023, but more potent versions are coming, as evidenced by a prototype for a more hardcore version, likely the M2 CS, currently testing in the wild.
The latest photos show a prototype winter testing near the Arctic Circle, and an earlier video from Car Spy Media showed a prototype testing at the Nürburgring.
Clues that identify the car as a possible M2 CS are the ducktail spoiler and front splitter (removed on the prototype for winter testing). Both elements are common to BMW's other CS cars, including the last M2 CS. It's hard to gauge, but the brake rotors also appear to be bigger compared to the regular M2, and the ride height looks slightly lower.
BMW's CS cars fill the gap between the Competition and CSL grades on dedicated M cars. They up performance via the typical means of more power and less weight, and this will likely be the case for any new M2 CS.
What's impossible to tell at this stage is whether the prototype features carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic for its hood, roof, and aerodynamic elements, like on the last M2 CS. Some of these carbon parts are available as options on the regular M2 and should feature on a new M2 CS.
More power should also be found under the hood. Power in the regular M2 comes from a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 and peaks at 453 hp. It isn't clear how much a new M2 CS will have, but something approaching the 473 hp of the base M3 with rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission is possible.
The new M2 CS is expected to debut in the second half of 2024, likely meaning it will arrive as a 2025 model. Production will almost certainly be limited, as is the case with other CS models.
Before we see it, BMW is set to launch an M3 CS Touring. Prototypes for the hardcore wagon have also been spotted testing. A new M4 CS is also in the works and can be seen testing alongside the M2 CS in some of the shots.
