Is the 2019 BMW M2 Competition the Best New Small Performance Coupe? | First Drive | Edmunds

Edmunds Road Test Manager Jonathan Elfalan flies to Spain to test-drive the new 2019 BMW M2 Competition. The Competition is a new stand-alone model that is replacing the standard M2 for 2019. On paper, it's set to give the Audi RS 3, the Audi TT RS and the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 a run for the subcompact title. But is it as good as the specs say?

Q: How much more does the 2019 BMW M2 Competition cost over the standard M2?
A: The base price is $59,895, including destination, which is a $4,400 increase over last year's BMW M2. If you were to get every option (Executive package, M Driver's Package, seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, a moonroof and metallic paint), it would top out at $68,095.

Q: What are the main differences between the 2019 BMW M2 Competition and the standard car?
A: The most significant differences include a more powerful engine, new wheels, upgraded brake calipers with larger rotors, a recalibrated dynamic stability control system, new sport seats, and a carbon-fiber strut brace that greatly stiffens the front of the car.

Q: What kind of engine does the 2019 BMW M2 Competition have and how much power does it make?

A: It's still a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder, but it's now the same one that powers the BMW M3 and M4. Under the hood of the M2 Competition, it makes 405 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. This engine features a stronger block design than the standard M2, plus a lightweight forged crankshaft, stronger pistons and twin turbochargers in place of the old engine's single twin-scroll turbo setup.

Q: Are there transmission options? If so, what should I get?
A: The 2019 BMW M2 Competition comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission with automatic rev-matching, which matches the engine rpm to road speed everytime you downshift. There is an optional seven-speed dual clutch that shifts as quick as lightning and has a launch control feature. Both are good, but we'd pick the manual because it provides the most engaging driving experience.

Read our First Drive of the 2019 BMW M2 Competition Coupe here: https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/first-impressions/2019-bmw-m2-competition-coupe-first-drive.html

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