BMW Explains Why It Finally Gave The M2 All-Wheel Drive
BMW has introduced an all-wheel-drive version of the M2 Coupe, citing demand from customers in the US and Switzerland.
Key Takeaways
- BMW built the M2 xDrive due to demand from American and Swiss customers.
- The M2 xDrive is quicker than its RWD counterpart, hitting 60 mph in 3.6 seconds.
- The M2 xDrive replaces the standard M2 with an automatic, but a manual RWD version is still available.
- The S58 engine has been updated to comply with Euro 7 emissions standards.
- The M2 xDrive is expected to have improved fuel economy and a slightly improved exhaust note.
Why Did BMW Introduce the M2 xDrive?
BMW introduced the M2 xDrive due to demand from customers in the US and Switzerland. According to BMW M Boss Frank van Meel, customers in the Northeast and Midwest tend to use all-season tires even in the spring and summer, making a rear-wheel-drive M2 “simply not feasible.” There was also huge demand for an all-wheel-drive sports car in Switzerland, which receives a lot of snow.
How Does the M2 xDrive Compare to the RWD M2?
The M2 xDrive is quicker than its RWD counterpart, hitting 60 mph in 3.6 seconds (3.3 seconds with a one-foot rollout). The RWD M2 took 3.9 seconds when equipped with the eight-speed automatic. The M2 xDrive also replaces the standard M2 with an automatic, but a manual RWD version is still available.
What Changes Were Made to the S58 Engine?
The S58 engine has been updated to comply with the new Euro 7 emissions standards. These changes include M-Ignite pre-chamber ignition technology, but US-spec cars don’t require it. BMW says the exhaust note will be slightly improved and fuel economy may see a small bump.
What Does This Mean for BMW Customers?
For customers in the northeast and midwest, all-wheel drive is great to have—especially on a car like the BMW M2. It’s great to see BMW listening to its customers and offering a car that meets their needs.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| 0-60 mph time | 3.6 seconds |
| Engine | 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged S58 inline-six |
| Horsepower | 473 horsepower |
| Torque | 443 lb-ft |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did BMW introduce the M2 xDrive?
BMW introduced the M2 xDrive due to demand from customers in the US and Switzerland. Customers in the Northeast and Midwest tend to use all-season tires even in the spring and summer, making a rear-wheel-drive M2 “simply not feasible.”
Q: How does the M2 xDrive compare to the RWD M2?
The M2 xDrive is quicker than its RWD counterpart, hitting 60 mph in 3.6 seconds (3.3 seconds with a one-foot rollout). The RWD M2 took 3.9 seconds when equipped with the eight-speed automatic.
Q: What changes were made to the S58 engine?
The S58 engine has been updated to comply with the new Euro 7 emissions standards. These changes include M-Ignite pre-chamber ignition technology, but US-spec cars don’t require it.
