The 2023 BMW M2 prototype is a driver’s car

The goodness of the BMW M2 as a largely unfiltered driver’s car has earned it a spot among the M brand’s greatest hits. Much of its behind-the-wheel joy has spilled over to the newly redesigned 2-series, particularly the brawnier-than-ever M240i model. But where does that leave the next-generation M2? We still don’t know a ton about that car, but BMW invited us to drive prototypes around Austria’s 2.6-mile Salzburgring racetrack to learn more.

Firing up the M2 prototype produced the same thrumming six-cylinder growl we heard in our long-term M3, and both cars’ controls share a similar satisfying action. The manual—yes, a stick shift is confirmed, complete with automatic rev matching—slots into its gates with a positive if slightly rubbery feel. The ZF automatic, meanwhile, rips through its gears with a quickness that we can fault only for being not as engaging. Weather conditions meant we couldn’t push the M2s hard enough to gauge feedback levels or tell how much more sharply they turn in to corners than before, which the M engineers said was their goal. But the overall feel is one of a tidy, highly responsive sports coupe that, much like the previous car, envelops you at speed. Where the larger M4 exhibits stability bordering on that of a grand touring car, the M2 feels livelier and more willing to rotate under power. Its playfulness remains intact.

Full story Car and Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a40255051/2023-bmw-m2-prototype-drive/