First 2022 BMW M2 Prototype Images Surface Ahead Of October Debut

Ever since BMW gave the 2 Series Coupe a generation update back in July 2021, its’ been a long wait for its hardcore counterpart, the M2 to show up. Well, our prayers have been answered as not only is the 2022 M2 breaking cover in October, but we’ve got a first look at how it’ll look thanks to images of a camouflage prototype tearing up the asphalt at the Salzburgring circuit in Austria. 

Considering it's an ‘M’ model, let’s get down to the juiciest bit first which is under the skin. It’ll be borrowing the heart of the M3 and M4, which is none other than the 3-litre twin-turbo in-line six cylinder petrol engine. While performance figures haven’t been revealed, it should put out similar figures. For reference, the 3-litre turbo-petrol mill makes 480PS in its baseline trim, with the Competition setup bumping that up to 510PS. Oh and keep in mind that this M2 will be the final pure-ICE model to come from the Bavarian brand’s ‘M’ division as confirmed by BMW M boss Frank van Meel in a recent report. Not a bad way to have a last hurrah for pure ICE BMW M models. 

Another change comes in the form of transmissions with an 8-speed M Steptronic gearbox replacing the 7-speed DCT. Purists are gonna love this, as the M2 can also be specced with a 6-speed manual stick shifter. With great power comes stopping responsibility, so the new M2 will be getting brakes from the M3 and M4.  

Sure, the initial images of the M2 see it wrapped in heavy camo, but initial signs suggest it’ll be the 2 Series on steroids. Fortunately that kidney grille isn’t very big, while its front bumpers seem to have been beefed up with large intakes to feed air into the engine. Looking elsewhere, the M2 has retained the softer curves from its standard counterpart, while the rear looks brawnier with quad exhaust tips.

While BMW has kept the cabin intricacies nicely hidden, the most noticeable bit is the latest i-Drive 8 setup which was added to the standard model in May. It comprises a 12.3-inch driver’s display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. To give the cabin the ‘M’ treatment, BMW’s adding carbon bucket seats as an optional add-on.

Post its debut,  the 2022 BMW M2 will go on sale in April 2023. Back in India, we’ve only got the 2 Series Gran Coupe. Before we even get the M2, we think the 2 Series Coupe will come first possibly around early 2023.