The next-generation BMW M2 is getting a cabin more in line with the likes of the i4 and iX.
Our spy photographers have captured the souped-up coupe once again, and we’ve gotten a better look at the M2’s “curved dash” ahead of the car’s expected reveal this year.
This screen set-up appears to be similar to the one in the i4 and iX, which use a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen mounted in the same assembly.
The twin screens in these models run the latest BMW iDrive OS8.0 infotainment software, with satellite navigation as standard.
In contrast, the regular 2 Series features separated 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen running OS7.0.
The rest of the interior on this spied prototype is covered in black sheets, typical with development prototype vehicles.
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.
The new M2 Competition, which is what this prototype is expected to be, is rumoured to see its output increased to 335kW or even 365kW, with a six-speed manual transmission also expected to continue.
This level of power in the new Competition puts the larger M3 and M4 in the M2’s crosshairs. They both put out 353kW and 550Nm in base, manual guise, with Competition models pumping out 375kW.
At the front of the spied prototype there are small vents in the corner of the headlights that haven’t been seen before. It’s unclear what their purpose is, but it’s an interesting detail that was previously covered up.
The headlights are still partially obscured by camouflage but they look like production-ready units.
The front fascia features almost rectangular twin grilles, as well as a wide air intake underneath the grille flanked by separate side air intakes.
Around the side there are large, black M alloy wheels along with large, cross-drilled brake rotors, and down back there are also quad titanium exhaust tips.
These details point toward this prototype being an M2 Competition prototype, instead of a regular M2 prototype.
In the past we’ve also seen spied M2 prototypes that have what appear to be M Performance parts too, including a prominent rear wing, angled exhaust pipes, and what look like prominent aerodynamic slashes throughout.
The German automaker recently said it’s revealing a new M car at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed in June 2022, but it’s unclear if this model will be the M2. It could potentially be the much-anticipated M3 Touring instead.
“As BMW M, we feel honoured to play a very special role at this year’s Festival of Speed. For our 50th anniversary, we couldn’t imagine a better place to celebrate our products with fans of the brand,” said BMW M CEO Frank van Meel.
“I am particularly looking forward to unveiling a certain vehicle to the world’s public for the first time – a vehicle we have been waiting a long time for.”
MORE: Everything BMW M2
