New Spy Shots Show Hotter BMW M2 Variant Is On Its Way

Maybe you should hold off on that M3 Competition order.

We knew for a while that BMW was working on a more hardcore version of its M2 Coupe. Earlier this year, BMW finally revealed the new M2 Competition, which borrows its 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine from the M3 and M4. The engine has been slightly detuned to produce 405 horsepower but it is still a nice increase over the original car's 365 hp output.

With the reveal of the M2 Competition, we thought BMW had unveiled the ultimate M2. However, new spy shots from the Nurburgring show an even hotter M2 testing with virtually no camouflage.

The photos show what is rumored to be the M2 CS or CLS, a limited edition lightweight version of the M2. This white prototype can be seen with a deeper front spoiler, bigger rear spoiler, a different hood, and upgraded wheels and brakes. Little is known about the CS or CSL but it is rumored that the CS will be a US-market exclusive while the CSL will be available in all markets. The CS name was most recently used on the current M3 and M4 where the engine produces 460 hp, while the CSL name last appeared on the E46 M3.

Don't expect the M2 CSL to produce the full 460 hp output. Estimates place it at around 425 hp, which would still be a healthy increase over the Competition. Along with weight savings, the M2 CSL could end up being the ultimate modern M car. We thought we had experienced the greatest M2 with the Competition but the thought of an even hotter model has us extremely excited.