BMW has unveiled the M2 Racing, a new entry-level race car designed for amateur racers and beginners. The car is based on the second-generation M2 but features a smaller four-cylinder engine instead of the inline-six found in the road-going version. According to Laura Claesgens from BMW M Motorsport’s communications team, the decision to use a four-cylinder engine was made to reduce costs and simplify the car.
The lighter engine puts less strain on components, allowing the use of existing M2 street car parts for the brakes and cooling system. This translates to lower running costs for amateur racers. The M2 Racing uses a tuned version of BMW’s B48 engine, borrowed from the 230i but enhanced to produce 308 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
While this is less than the 473 hp offered by the road-going M2’s S58 engine, BMW says the performance is suitable for an entry-level race car.
New M2 Racing car unveiled
The car weighs just 3,302 pounds, which is 512 pounds less than the production model.
It is equipped with a seven-speed ZF automatic transmission and receives several motorsport upgrades, including an M4 GT4-derived exhaust, adjustable anti-roll bars, and fixed KW shocks inspired by BMW’s GT3 program. Priced at €98,000, the M2 Racing is significantly more affordable than its larger siblings, such as the €219,000 M4 GT4 EVO. Buyers can also choose from several upgrades, including a rear wing, racing brake pads, a flap-controlled exhaust, and an air jack system.
Sales are set to begin in June, with the first deliveries scheduled for later this year, just in time for the 2026 motorsport season. BMW M works drivers have been involved in intensive testing of the car to optimize its performance, drivability, tire wear, and mileage. Jens Klingmann, one of the test drivers, said, “Buyers of a BMW M2 Racing can look forward to a fantastic entry-level car that is very easy to operate, has extremely low operating costs due to its close relation to the production model, and yet is a fully-fledged race car with high performance.”
The M2 Racing will be eligible for various national and international sprint series as well as endurance events like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.
BMW M Motorsport experts will provide professional support to customers of the new race car.
Image Credits: Photo by Pablo Martinez on Unsplash
Noah Nguyen is a multi-talented developer who brings a unique perspective to his craft. Initially a creative writing professor, he turned to Dev work for the ability to work remotely. He now lives in Seattle, spending time hiking and drinking craft beer with his fiancee.
