When I first got my hands on the 2021 BMW M2 CS, it felt like holding a rare piece of automotive history. The CS, short for Club Sport, is the culmination of BMW’s M division’s pursuit of driving perfection, offering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. Having test-driven a fair share of high-performance cars, I was eager to see if the M2 CS could live up to its reputation as the ultimate last great BMW M car.
From the moment I slipped into the driver’s seat, it was clear that the M2 CS was designed with a singular focus: to deliver an unadulterated driving experience. The interior of the M2 CS is a blend of luxury and sportiness, with carbon fiber accents, sports seats, and a driver-focused cockpit that hints at the car’s performance credentials. The seats, although aggressively bolstered, are surprisingly comfortable, making long drives as pleasant as they are thrilling.
Starting the engine, I was immediately greeted by the authoritative growl of the 3.0-liter inline-six. The sound is a symphony of mechanical precision, amplified by the M2 CS’s sports exhaust system. This engine, a development of the one found in the standard M2 Competition, has been tuned to produce 444 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that offers quick, precise shifts. The acceleration is exhilarating, with 0-60 mph coming up in just 4 seconds, a testament to BMW’s engineering prowess.
Taking the M2 CS out on the open road, I was struck by how well-balanced the car felt. The steering is exceptionally responsive, providing a direct connection to the road that enhances the driving experience. The chassis is stiff yet not harsh, and the adaptive M suspension does a remarkable job of managing both comfort and performance. The M2 CS handles corners with remarkable agility, and the rear-wheel-drive layout ensures that the car remains playful even when pushed to its limits.
On a particularly twisty stretch of road, I decided to really push the M2 CS to see how it performed under more demanding conditions. The car’s limited-slip differential and M Compound brakes work in harmony to deliver incredible grip and confidence. As I navigated the curves, the car felt incredibly stable, and the feedback from the steering was perfectly calibrated, allowing me to adjust my line with precision.
What struck me as particularly special about the M2 CS was its ability to balance track-ready performance with everyday usability. Unlike some high-performance cars that are only enjoyable on a racetrack, the M2 CS is versatile enough to be a daily driver. The ride quality, while firm, is never uncomfortable, and the cabin remains relatively quiet at cruising speeds. This duality is a rare quality in modern sports cars and is part of what makes the M2 CS so special.
Another aspect that adds to the M2 CS’s appeal is its exclusivity. Limited production numbers and unique design elements, such as the carbon fiber roof and lightweight components, ensure that this model stands out in a sea of more mundane vehicles. There’s a sense of occasion each time you get behind the wheel, knowing that you’re driving a car that represents the pinnacle of BMW’s M division’s recent offerings.
In the months following my test drive, I found myself reminiscing about the experience often. The M2 CS left a lasting impression, not just because of its impressive performance but also because of the way it managed to make every drive feel special. It’s a car that invites you to explore its limits while still offering the practicality needed for everyday use.
In the grand scheme of BMW’s M cars, the M2 CS stands as a final hurrah for a certain breed of driving experience. As BMW shifts towards more electrified and technologically advanced models, the M2 CS represents the ultimate embodiment of their traditional performance philosophy. It’s a reminder of what made BMW’s M cars legendary and a fitting conclusion to a remarkable era.
Whether it’s the precise handling, the powerful engine, or the sheer driving pleasure, the 2021 BMW M2 CS delivers an experience that is both exhilarating and satisfying. For enthusiasts like myself, it’s a cherished reminder of the thrill of driving a truly great sports car.