BMW M2 2017 pricing and spec confirmed

BMW Australia will introduce its lightly facelifted M2 line-up in September, with the entry-level M model's price increasing by $2800 to $93,300 before on-road costs.

Dubbed M2 Pure, the range-opener incurs a much larger jump in cost than its flagship counterpart – simply known as M2 – which is only $400 more expensive at $99,900.

In M2 form, the two-door, four-seat coupe has traded in its predecessor's bi-xenon headlights for adaptive LED units with redesigned hexagonal daytime running lights (DRLs).

Alternatively, the M2 Pure upgrades to bi-LED headlights featuring the Bavarian carmaker's signature twin-circular design.

At the rear-end, both grades pick up full-LED tail-lights with redesigned L-shaped cluster graphics.

Inside, an 8.8-inch touchscreen is powered by BMW's latest 'iDrive' infotainment system, which features a live-content tiled interface and voice control functionality.

A revised multi-function display nestled in the instrument cluster includes M-specific content, while design stitching, a high-gloss black centre console and refreshed interior trim geometry aim to lift the cabin's ambience.

Furthermore, the Munich-based company has addressed customer feedback by modifying the wiper and indicator stalks so that they now 'snap' into a locked position.

Standard kit for the M2 Pure includes 19-inch alloy wheels, 'Dakota' leather upholstery, carbon-fibre trim finishers, climate control, an M leather steering wheel and a seven-speaker sound system.

Safety and driver assistance technologies extend to six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and speed limit info.

Stepping up to the fully loaded M2 further adds keyless access, electric seat adjustment, high beam assist and a 12-speaker harman/kardon sound system.

Both grades continue to be motivated by a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine that punches out 272kW of power at 6500rpm and 465Nm of torque between 1400-5650rpm.

However, the rear-wheel-drive M2's torque output can swell to 500Nm from 1450-4750rpm, thanks to an in-built overboost function.

The M2 Pure is available exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the M2 comes standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Nevertheless, buyers wanting an M2 in top-spec guise with a self-shifter are in luck as it remains available as a no-cost option.

Automatic M2s rocket from zero to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds, while manual versions manage the triple-figure sprint in 4.5s.

Meanwhile fuel consumption for the dual-clutch is rated at 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle test, whereas the three-pedal set-up is thirstier with its 8.5L/100km figure.

According to BMW Group Australia CEO Marc Werner, the M2 has been a runaway success for the brand, with this mid-life update – or Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) in BMW speak – building upon its foundations.

“The BMW M2 has quickly established itself as an award winner, and now it is the best-selling BMW M vehicle in Australia for 2017,” he said.

“The M2 LCI further defines the vehicle’s premium attributes while ensuring the motorsport-derived driving experience remains at its core.”

Has BMW done enough to freshen up its M2 range? Tell us what you think in the comments below.