BMW M2 G87
2023-2024
The G87 M2 is BMW's answer to those who believe modern M cars have lost their soul. It combines cutting-edge S58 twin-turbo power with traditional rear-wheel drive dynamics in a compact package that prioritizes driver engagement over luxury.
Quick Take
The G87 M2 represents BMW's purest M car philosophy with its rear-wheel drive layout and potent S58 engine. It maintains the compact dimensions that made the M2 legendary while delivering significantly more power than its predecessor.
Best For
Key Strength
S58 Powerplant Dominance
Watch For
Interior Compromises
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Building on the M2's reputation as the spiritual successor to the E46 M3, the G87 generation maintains the nameplate's core mission of delivering M performance in BMW's smallest chassis. It represents the last bastion of BMW's traditional M car philosophy in an increasingly electrified lineup.
Design Philosophy
The G87's design emphasizes function over form with aggressive aerodynamic elements and muscular proportions that hint at its performance capabilities. BMW M's designers focused on creating visual drama while maintaining the compact dimensions that define the M2 character.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The S58 twin-turbo inline-six delivers power with remarkable linearity, masking its forced induction with smooth power delivery that builds relentlessly to redline. Despite the turbos, it maintains the crisp throttle response and rev-happy nature that defines great BMW engines.
Chassis Dynamics
The G87 maintains the M2's reputation for balanced handling with a rear-biased setup that encourages controlled oversteer. The chassis strikes an impressive balance between track capability and street comfort, with adaptive dampers that manage both scenarios effectively.
Sound Signature
The S58 produces a cultured inline-six wail with turbo whooshes that build to a crescendo at higher RPMs.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The twin-turbo 3.0L S58 engine is BMW's masterpiece, delivering 453hp and 406lb-ft with incredible tuning headroom. This powerplant responds exceptionally well to modifications, with stage 1 tunes easily unlocking 500+ horsepower while maintaining daily drivability.
The G87's compact dimensions combined with sophisticated suspension tuning create an incredibly balanced platform. The car rotates beautifully through corners while maintaining excellent stability at speed, making it equally capable on back roads and race circuits.
Honest Tradeoffs
Despite the premium price point, interior materials feel cost-conscious with hard plastics dominating surfaces. The iDrive system, while functional, lacks the intuitive operation of previous generations and can be distracting during spirited driving.
First-year S58 engines have shown concerning patterns including oil consumption, cooling system problems, and occasional turbocharger failures. BMW has addressed some issues through service campaigns, but long-term reliability remains questionable for early examples.
Ideal Owner
Driving purists who want maximum M performance in a compact package without the complexity of all-wheel drive systems.