2023 BMW M2 spied

BMW has been snapped testing its smallest M GmbH model.

The2023 BMW M2has been caught twice in the same day, testing at the Nurburgring and then roaming the streets wearing some aggressive M Performance parts.

Based on the new, second-generation 2 Series coupe, the BMW M2 instantly sets itself apart from the regular model with its swollen wheel arches and more aggressive bumpers at both ends.

It borrows heavily from the M3 and M4 with prominent horizontal slats in the grille, slim-spoked wheels, and trademark quad pipes nestled in the rear bumper – although the tall, slim snout from both those cars appears to be absent from their little brother.

The M Performance parts up the drama with a prominent rear wing, angled exhaust pipes, and what look like more prominent aerodynamic slashes throughout. BMW M offers a similar range of parts for the M3 and M4.

In standard guise, the M2 will reportedly have more power than the outgoing M2 Competition, which produces 302kW and 550Nm from its 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine.

The regular M2, last seen here in 2018, put out 272kW and 465Nm.

Unlike the M240i xDrive that heads the local 2 Series range, the M2 is expected to remain rear-wheel drive.

It’s also expected to feature a manual transmission option, something becoming increasingly rare in the compact performance segment.

MORE: Everything BMW M2