Mission accomplished!
I made it through my seven-day test in the 2019 BMW M2 Competition Coupe without getting a speeding ticket. My self-control was tested, but I persevered.
The diminutive rear-wheel drive coupe is powered by BMW’s M TwinPower turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with variable valve and lift control with high-precision direct injection. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic M double-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
My tester came with a Sunset Orange metallic coat of enamel that was perfect. A ginger driving a ginger hotrod that generates 405 horsepower with a top speed of 174 miles per hour and a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.0 seconds.
The power unit boasted an insatiable appetite for revs and offered exceptionally linear power delivery across a broad rpm range. A dual exhaust system with electronic flap control provided the distinctive M sound that I found irresistible.
“Competition” was added to the M2’s name because of the car’s enhanced track qualities. Larger front and rear brake disks, enhanced front-end rigidity that increased steering precision and improved driving dynamics – several of the improvements that make this a driver’s car, bar none.
With its low center of gravity, it was a bit difficult for an old man to get in and out. Falling in wasn’t so bad, but climbing out took some exercise. And the M Sport bucket seats, which keep you securely in place – almost like a fighter pilot – were so tight I started taking my wallet out of my back pocket for comfort.
The BMW M2 Competition is the first BMW M2 to be equipped with selector switches in the center console that allow instant control of settings for the engine, steering and Drivelogic functions. The various configurations can be combined in whichever way the driver prefers, and can be stored for easy access using the M1 and M2 buttons on the steering wheel.
Creature comforts almost seem unimportant when it came to the M2, but here goes anyway. My favorites were Apple CarPlay capability, Harman/Kardon premium sound system, ambient lighting, navigation system, wireless charging for cell phones and WiFi hotspot.
Of course, there are heated leather seats that include four-way lumbar support for the driver, heated steering wheel, rain-sensing windshield wipers that run themselves based on the intensity of the rain and automatic headlight control.
New BMW M2 Competition customers can make use of numerous driver assistance and mobility services through BMW Personal CoPilot. The range of optional driver-assistance systems includes standard active driving assistant, which comprises features such as collision warning and pedestrian warning with city braking function and lane-departure warning. Speed limit info flashes up traffic signs and the permitted top speed in the windshield. The rear-view camera teams up with standard rear park-distance control to assist drivers with reverse parking and maneuvering.
Base Price: $59,895
Price As Driven: $67,045
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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