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Blue BMW M2 driving on a racetrack

BMW M2 review (2016-2021)

The M2 compact coupe is powerful and fun to drive. It’s a practical sportscar with space for four people and their luggage.

Pros

  • Amazing performance
  • Great handling
  • Space for four plus luggage

Cons

  • Only one choice of engine
  • Not cheap to buy or run
  • Ride is rather firm

Summary

“Brilliant to drive and reasonably practical, the M2 appeals to the heart and the head”

By Cazoo editorial team

The BMW M2 is a high-performance, top-spec version of the BMW 2 Series. It combines excellent performance and handling with a relatively versatile design. It’s brilliant to drive on any road and features a high quality and well equipped interior, with features such as air con and Bluetooth connectivity fitted as standard.


It’s a two-door only, but the M2 has good space for two upfront and two adults can fit in the back. The boot is a good size. The car looks great too, with an eye-catching design that reflects its impressive performance.There’s only one engine choice, but it delivers incredible performance with reasonable efficiency.

What's the interior like?

“Cosy and premium yet there's space for four and a large boot”

Well designed and featuring a premium look and feel, the M2’s interior has a definite feelgood factor. The dashboard is clearly laid out and all the controls and switches are easy to see and use. Mounted on top of the dashboard is a large infotainment screen that’s operated by a simple to use knob mounted between the front seats.

The low-slung seating holds you tightly in place while visibility is excellent. There’s a wide range of seat and steering wheel adjustment controls to help you get comfortable. The front seats fold forward for easy access to the back seats and the 390-litre boot is bigger than most rivals. It’s capable of swallowing two medium-sized suitcases with room to spare.

What's it like to drive?

“Exhilarating performance and excellent handling make the M2 a real thrill to drive”

The M2 is huge fun to drive. With its extremely powerful engine, quick steering and rear-wheel drive layout, the BMW rewards keen drivers. But it’s also easy to drive, with compact dimensions and excellent visibility making it simple to park. There’s also a choice of precise six-speed manual or smooth seven-speed automatic gearboxes for even greater control.


Some will find the sporty suspension too firm on bumpy roads, but it’s a similar story with most other high-performance cars. Low noise levels and supportive seats mean the BMW is great on long motorway journeys.

Is it cost-efficient to buy and run?

“Given the available performance, the M2 running costs are reasonable”

The M2 costs more to run than a typical family car but, considering the extra performance, the increased running costs are reasonable. There’s only one petrol engine option which, when fitted with the automatic gearbox, will return a good 35.8mpg. The annual tax bill is likely to be higher so make sure you check this.

The M2 will certainly cost more to own than other BMW 2 Series models yet overall costs should be on a par with high-performance versions of the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

An easier way to find or sell a car

You’ll find lots of used cars for sale at Cazoo, all available to buy through our trusted dealers.

Cazoo makes selling a car just as easy – just enter a few details for an instant online valuation. If you accept the offer our partners will get in touch to arrange payment and collection of your car at a time that suits you.

Which one is best for you?

There are just two models available - the M2 and the post-2018 M2 Competition. All versions are extremely well-equipped, with leather seat trim, sat nav and climate control as standard. If you do a lot of town driving it’s well worth considering the automatic gearbox.

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