The BMW M2 (G87) 3.0 with the Steptronic automatic transmission, launched in August 2024, represents the latest iteration of BMW’s high-performance coupe. Positioned as the flagship variant of the G87 generation, it builds upon the success of its predecessors, offering a significant increase in power and refined driving dynamics. The G87 M2 is built on a modified version of the BMW Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform, shared with the 2 Series Coupe, but extensively reworked for enhanced performance and track capability. This variant specifically targets drivers seeking a potent, track-focused experience with the convenience of an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M2 |
| Generation | M2 (G87) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 (480 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 9.6-9.8 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 24.5 – 24 |
| Combined fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 29.4 – 28.8 |
| Combined fuel consumption (km/l) | 10.4 – 10.2 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 218-223 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp, 277.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 346.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 480 Hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 160.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 2650-6130 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 2650-6130 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S58 |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC, Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1887 mm (74.29 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2068 mm (81.42 in.) |
| Height | 1403 mm (55.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2747 mm (108.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1617 mm (63.66 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 984 mm (38.74 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 123 mm (4.84 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 275/35 R19 Rear wheel tires: 285/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 9.5J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 10.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the M2 (G87) 3.0 Steptronic lies the S58 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine, derived from the X3 M and X4 M, utilizes a twin-turbocharged configuration to deliver 480 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque between 2,650 and 6,130 rpm. The S58 employs direct fuel injection, a high compression ratio of 9.3:1, and BMW’s VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS technologies for optimized efficiency and responsiveness. The Steptronic eight-speed automatic transmission is specifically tuned for the M2, offering quicker shift times and more aggressive programming compared to standard BMW automatics. It includes Drivelogic, allowing the driver to select from different shift profiles to suit their driving style.
Driving Characteristics
The 480 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque, coupled with the quick-shifting Steptronic transmission, provide exhilarating acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in a claimed 3.8 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. While the manual transmission version is often favored by purists, the Steptronic offers seamless gear changes and allows the driver to focus on steering and braking. The transmission’s programming prioritizes performance, holding gears longer during spirited driving and downshifting rapidly under braking. Compared to lower-powered 2 Series variants, the M2 delivers a significantly more visceral and engaging driving experience, with sharper throttle response and increased cornering grip.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M2 (G87) 3.0 Steptronic comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including M Sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a digital instrument cluster. Interior trim options include carbon fiber accents and various leather upholstery choices. Standard driver-assistance systems include lane departure warning and forward collision warning. Optional extras include a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system. The M2 also benefits from M-specific suspension tuning, upgraded brakes, and an active exhaust system.
Chassis & Braking
The M2’s chassis is significantly reinforced compared to the standard 2 Series Coupe, featuring additional bracing and stiffer suspension components. The front suspension utilizes a spring-strut design with a transverse stabilizer, while the rear employs an independent multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The M2 is equipped with ABS, dynamic stability control, and M Dynamic Mode, which allows for a more permissive level of wheel slip for experienced drivers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The G87 M2 has been widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and overall driving experience. Some criticism has been directed towards its size, which is larger than previous M2 generations, and its styling, which some find less aggressive. Compared to the manual transmission version, the Steptronic offers convenience and ease of use, but some enthusiasts argue that it lacks the engagement of a traditional manual gearbox. Fuel economy is rated at 9.6-9.8 l/100 km (24.5-24 US mpg), which is typical for a high-performance coupe of this caliber.
Legacy
The S58 engine and Steptronic transmission combination in the G87 M2 is expected to be a reliable and durable powertrain. The S58 has proven its robustness in other BMW M models. As the newest M2 variant, its long-term reliability is still being established, but early indications suggest it will hold its value well in the used car market, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a high-performance, technologically advanced coupe.
