New BMW M2 CS smashes Nurburgring record for compact cars
Jörg Weidinger drove the BMW M2 CS to a new Nurburgring record for compact cars.
Image: Supplied
They call it the “Green Hell”, with 20.832 kilometres of undulating tar, known for its significant elevation changes and a bumpy surface.
Achieving a new record time at Germany’s Nürburgring-Nordschleife is a notable achievement, and BMW has done just that in the compact class of cars, with its new M2 CS.
With BMW M development engineer Jörg Weidinger behind the wheel, the BMW M2 CS has knocked the Audi RS3 off its throne as the fastest compact car on the ‘Ring. With a time of 7:25.5 minutes, Weidinger beat the Audi’s previous record by eight seconds.
"The BMW M2 CS has achieved a significant milestone with its lap time of 7:25.5 minutes on the Nordschleife, showcasing the potential for combining performance, technology and exceptional driving dynamics into a single vehicle," BMW M boss Franciscus van Meel exclaimed.
“We are proud that the M2 CS has once again set a new benchmark in the compact car class with this lap time.”
The M2 CS is not the fastest BMW around the ‘Ring however. That honour belongs to the M4 CSL, which lapped the gruelling circuit in 7:18.137s.
The new BMW M2 CS will arrive in South Africa in early 2026.
Image: Supplied
Boasting more power, less weight, rear wheel drive and a limited production run, the new BMW M2 CS continues the ‘Competition Sport’ tradition that dates back to the late 1960s.
The M2 CS will be available in South Africa from the second quarter of 2026, BMW SA has confirmed, with pricing to be released nearer to the time.
It is powered by an upgraded version of BMW’s 3.0-litre, six-cylinder turbocharged engine, now matching the BMW M3 and M4 with outputs of 390kW at 6,250rpm and 650Nm from 2,650 to 5,730rpm.
Boasting 37kW and 50Nm more than the regular M2, and being an impressive 30kg lighter, the new M2 CS is capable of sprinting from zero to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds, making it 0.2 seconds quicker. The top speed is electronically limited to 302km/h.
An M-specific exhaust system with electronically controlled flaps is fitted to ensure an enticing soundtrack, but for those who seek, in BMW’s words, a “racing car sound guaranteed to stir the emotions”, a bespoke new M Performance silencer system is available through the M Performance Parts catalogue.
Power goes straight to the back wheels via an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox and M Sport differential.
A CFRP 'ducktail' rear spoiler marks out the rear end.
Image: Supplied
The M2 CS sits 8mm lower to the ground than the regular M2 and its springs, dampers and chassis control systems have been specifically tuned for this model, as has the M Servotronic steering system.
An M Compound braking system with red brake callipers, is fitted as standard, while an M Carbon ceramic set-up is optionally available.
A view of the cabin.
Image: Supplied
The cabin boasts numerous CFRP details, along with heated M Carbon bucket seats and a combination of Merino leather and Alcantara trim surfaces.
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