2025 BMW M2 Boosts Power, Retains Manual Transmission

The 2025 BMW M2 offers an incremental upgrade, maintaining its core features while delivering a bit more power.

BMW’s lifecycle update for the M2 has arrived, featuring a notable boost in power. These updates align with the changes seen in other recent models from BMW’s Motorsports division, such as the newly unveiled 2025 M3 and M4.

Fans of BMW’s approach to the M2 will be glad to know that the fundamentals remain the same: straight-six engine, rear-wheel drive, and the option of a manual gearbox.

With 20 additional horsepower, the 2025 M2 now boasts 473 hp, representing a roughly 4.5 percent increase over the previous model. This incremental improvement sets the stage for the rest of the model year changes, which include a new wheel color, expanded paint options, and an upgraded infotainment system.

Under-the-Hood Tweaks

While the power boost is modest, BMW indicates that the main focus for the 2025 model year has been on enhancing responsiveness. This includes remapping the accelerator pedal response and improving the torque curve of the twin-turbo six-cylinder engine.

For enthusiasts who value the engagement of a manual transmission, the six-speed manual option remains available. However, it’s worth noting that the manual now offers less torque compared to the automatic version.

However, before two-pedal drivers celebrate their exclusive increase, it’s important to note that the peak torque window is narrower in the automatic than in the manual. For 2025, the manual transmission’s torque window has been extended, with all 406 lb-ft available between 2,650 and 6,130 rpm, whereas the outgoing model tapered off at 5,870 rpm.

These incremental improvements result in a slight reduction in 0–60 mph (0–96 km/h) times. The manual 2025 M2 can reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.1 seconds, which is 0.1 seconds faster than the 2024 model. With the eight-speed automatic, the time remains unchanged from the previous model at 3.9 seconds. The top speed is still electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h), or 177 mph (285 km/h) with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Other Updates

We were hoping for some design changes, especially to the somewhat unremarkable rear end, which hasn’t grown on us even after a few years in production. Technically, there is one change: the signature M quad tailpipes are now finished in black as standard.

Additional updates include model designation badges on the trunk lid and grille, now black with silver borders. These changes are minor, but if you own a 2024 M2 and want to give it a 2025 look, all you need is a black spray can and a silver Sharpie.

Expanded Color Options

The color palette has been expanded to include three solid colors, seven metallic shades, and four BMW Individual paint finishes. While the wheel design remains the same with 19-inch fronts and 20-inch rears, you can now choose a “bright silver finish” if, like us, you feel the black wheel trend has passed.

Fewer Buttons

The interior sees the most changes, featuring BMW’s divisive yet impressive curved displays. The car now comes with BMW’s Operating System 8.5 and iDrive 8.5, complete with M-specific graphics. However, the temperature, ventilation, seat heating, and steering wheel heating controls have been integrated into the infotainment system, so pour one out for the lost physical buttons.

The steering wheel has also been redesigned with a flat-bottomed rim, a 12 o’clock center marker, and new spokes. For a more race-car feel, you can opt for an Alcantara finish—just remember to wear gloves.

Track-day enthusiasts will appreciate the new option to order M Carbon bucket seats as a standalone feature. If you prefer comfort over weight savings, the M Sport seats are available in Vernasca leather, in Black with Red highlights.

The 2025 BMW M2 will start at a base MSRP of $64,900 plus $1,175 for destination and handling. Deliveries are set to begin worldwide in August 2024.

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  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...

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