What's the news?
As the embargo lifts on this particular news item, I'm on a plane on the way back from driving the new BMW M2 Coupé at its international launch in the US. I'm not allowed to tell you what I think of it yet, but let's be honest here: we're all expecting big things from the new junior M car. Yet, before a single customer takes delivery, BMW has rolled out a catalogue of upgrades under the M Performance Parts banner. They make their debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show next month and focus on the M2's aerodynamics, engine, cabin and chassis and they were previewed in the awesome BMW M2 Coupé MotoGP Safety Car.
Exterior
We thought the M2 was pretty perfect in visual terms, with its hunkered down stance and suggestive haunches, but who doesn't love a bit of carbon fibre on their sports car? Options from the M Performance Parts bin include CFRP (carbon fibre reinforced plastic) add-ons for the front bumper and side skirts, a rear diffuser and even door mirror caps. Carbon fibre exhaust outlets measuring 93mm in diameter can also be fitted to an M Performance exhaust system.
Interior
There are plenty of options for the cabin too, starting with bright LED-lit BMW M Performance door sill strips and M Performance floor mats and stainless steel pedal covers. More enticing perhaps is a pair of Alcantara-trimmed steering wheels. First up is the M Performance steering wheel Pro, with firmer filling than standard for a more direct feel and a light blue marker at 12 o'clock. It also features a tricolour M seam and an optional carbon section. Those that plan to take their M2 on track should consider the second wheel option, which features a configurable race display and LED gearchange lights.
The last item on the menu is the M Performance carbon fibre interior kit, applying the motorsport material to the gear selector (if you've gone for the DCT auto), handbrake lever and centre console, plus other bits and pieces of trim with both carbon and Alcantara elements.
Mechanicals
Ok, we said at the start that the upgrades extend to the engine, but actually, it's limited to the exhaust, and no power increase is quoted. As mentioned above, there's an M Performance system on the options list and it's more than just a larger pipe diameter; it's a two-stage flap-control unit, which is altered via Bluetooth between Sport or Track. We're told that even Sport mode is considerably louder than standard and Track is, well, best kept to the race circuit if you don't want to fall out with your neighbours. Regular track users will no doubt be equally tempted by the BMW M Performance coilover suspension. It comes with a lot of manual adjustment so it's not for the complete amateur. The ride height reduces by a minimum of 5mm and up to 20mm and though the basic tuning is harder than the standard car's, the owner can adjust the dampers through 16 rebound and 12 compression settings to suit their preferences and the track itself. Finally, there are sports brake pads, which, according to BMW's release, 'don't suffer from fade even when placed under continuous extreme loads.'
Anything else?
You can read our first drive of the new BMW M2 Coupé on the evening of February 16th. It goes on sale in Ireland in April this year starting at €78,370 on-the-road.