2024 BMW M2

The 2024 M2 is a high-performance rear-wheel-drive coupe based on the two-door 2 Series. It gets the typical M division upgrades including an overachieving engine, more powerful brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, and your choice of a manual or automatic transmission. In the latest iteration introduced last year, BMW addressed some of the complaints leveled against the original M2, not that there were many. An adaptive suspension and a longer wheelbase combine to provide a smoother ride, while the interior gets modernized with BMW's latest dual-screen display for the infotainment system and instrument panel.

If you're considering the new M2 for its textbook hot-rod appeal you can relax: It's still got it. It remains a car with a big engine in a small chassis fortified with massive sticky rubber and a modicum of practicality. But if you're here because you're chasing the purest rear-drive platform, this M2 may not be the hot rod you're after. It's bigger and heavier and arguably less attractive than the M2 it replaced last year. Yes, it counters the added mass with 48 more ponies. But adding both weight and power dilutes the purity of a car that was, from its outset, intended to be a focused driving tool. We're still impressed with the new M2. But we will miss the slim and riotous demeanor of the original.

The M2 exists in a unique market position. It's not as expensive or as high-performing as a Chevy Corvette or Porsche 911, yet it's distinctly more upscale than a Ford Mustang or Chevy Camaro, which offer similar performance for less cost. The 401-hp Audi RS 3 is perhaps the M2's closest rival on price and performance alone. We'd call all of these cars competitors, though your opinion could vary depending on your budget and how you view the M2. Perhaps the M2 hits your sweet spot.

Anything you add to the M2 will be gravy on an already fully equipped sport/luxury car, but there is at least one choice that will make daily life better for only minor cost. We'd add the wireless smartphone charging pad, a $200 option that you'll use nearly every time you're behind the wheel. Your hardest decision might come down to which transmission to get. The manual is more engaging and the purist's choice, but the automatic is better for daily driving and no-fuss acceleration.