Let's run through a hypothetical car shopping requirement list. You want: 1) more than 400 horsepower; 2) a nimble-handling coupe with a decent-size back seat; 3) an available manual transmission; 4) rarity, so you know you got something special; and 5) a starting MSRP that's no more than $60,000 when new. Now, a decent number of cars will match most of these criteria. But all of them? Your search will pretty much start and end at the 2020 BMW M2 Competition.

Admittedly, our listed requirements are quite specific, akin perhaps to trying to qualify for the Olympics. (Oh, what, you were 0.0002 second slower than the last athlete? Sorry, you're off the team.) But we're just glad the M2 Competition exists at all. BMW's lineup, which is simply a reflection of market desires, is jam-packed with X-brand SUVs and four-door Gran Coupe derivatives. A small two-door coupe, however close it might come to providing classic BMW handling magic, just isn't a big draw anymore.

But that's part of the niche appeal, right? BMW definitely helped out when it made a variety of updates to last year's M2 and renamed it the M2 Competition. These included a new engine, stronger brakes, sportier front seats, and subtle exterior styling changes that go along with the preexisting M mods for the 2 Series. This year's M2 is pretty much unchanged. Supposedly, the taillights are a little darker. Exciting, yeah?

Yes, there are some downsides here. The ride quality is quite firm, and BMW doesn't offer an adaptive suspension (as it does on, say, the M3 and M4) to make it more livable. Nor does BMW give you much in the way of customization, whether it be paint choices or interior upholstery and trim. Relax some of our listed requirements and you might end up with an Audi RS 3, Ford Shelby GT350 or even the new 3 Series in M340i guise. Overall, though, we think you're going to love the 2020 M2.

Edmunds’ Expert Rating

Rated for you by America’s best test team

Our verdict

8.0 / 10

The BMW M2 Competition provides a visceral driving experience yet has four seats, a secure trunk and just-tough-enough styling. It doesn't lavish the driver with the latest technology, but it does impart a feeling of exhilaration that's nearly unmatched for the price. This little German muscle car is sure to be a future classic.

How does it drive?

8.0

When something this size is packing 405 horsepower, you know it's going to be fast. With the six-speed manual, we saw 60 go by in 4.6 seconds. The quarter-mile was dispatched in a thrilling 12.7 seconds at 110.9 mph. The power from this engine is broad and muscular, making it easy to attack a good road with just a couple of gears.

Handling limits are high, but this is where the M2 gets tricky. It requires an advanced hand to get the most out of it since the chassis is eager to turn but can be twitchy over less than perfect roads. The brakes are a bit on the noisy side but provide consistently strong stopping power. In our testing, our M2 test car came to a stop from 60 mph in 108 feet. The M2 can also do the daily slog thanks to its easy clutch takeup and precise rev-matching feature. Only a wide turning radius earns a demerit.

How comfortable is it?

7.5

If you weren't clued in to the M2's capabilities before you hit the road, the relentlessly firm ride will quickly make it apparent. While it's not punishing, it can get tiresome on a choppy freeway. It'll make you think twice about charging down a road with a less than perfect surface.

The seats are impressively comfortable and supportive. You can adjust the bolsters to fit many body types. Should you live in a cold climate, the seat heaters will quickly ward off the chills. The climate control is very effective, and any BMW owner will find it instantly familiar to use.

How’s the interior?

8.0

We applaud the straightforward layout and general lack of complexity, but the M2 might come across to some buyers as a little dated. Nearly everyone should find it easy to get into the M2 thanks to its more standard sedan-like ride height (no low-slung sports car here). Visibility is also excellent. The M2 is one of last sport coupes you can park without relying on electronic aids.

It might take you a bit fiddling with the adjustments for the driver's seat and steering wheel to get comfortable, but once ensconced, you'll likely end up with an ideal driving position. And unless you're exceptionally tall, your rear passengers will have an acceptable amount of legroom even if headroom is a bit tight.

How’s the tech?

7.5

This version of iDrive is easy to read and remains one of our favorites. It offers good phone integration provided you're using an Apple device. Android Auto isn't supported, though it's pretty easy to get up and running using a standard Bluetooth connection. The M2's system also has above-average voice controls that recognize natural speech pretty well. Some deep menus can take a while to learn, but most everyday functions are readily accessible.

The navigation system is fast-acting and accurate, but the audio system left us wanting a bit more punch. The M2's driver aids work pretty well, but adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert are not offered. Wireless charging is part of the optional Executive package.

How’s the storage?

8.0

It should come as no surprise that the sedan-like M2 Competition makes a real case for itself in this category since many of the cars in this class are hatchbacks or have only two seats. There's a decent amount of interior storage space. And with a fairly generous 13.8-cubic-foot trunk, the M2 offers considerably more room than rival coupes.

Add to that the 60/40-split rear seats and you've got yourself quite the practical sport coupe. Slim child safety seats should fit without much issue, but getting them in or out could cause some frustration.

How economical is it?

7.5

With speed as its main selling point, the M2 Competition could be expected to get less than stellar fuel economy. But the EPA rates it at a respectable 20 mpg in combined city/highway driving (with the manual transmission). We didn't have much of a problem meeting the combined rating in mixed driving and on our 115-mile evaluation route.

Is it a good value?

8.0

The cool part about the M2 is that you can order a base model (around $60,000) and not lose a thing. The power, braking and handling capabilities are all baked in from the start. Only the optional dual-clutch automatic transmission adds any real expense and performance benefit.

Build quality is what you'd expect from a BMW even if the M2 Competition is a bit simple on the inside. The materials quality is above par, as is the fit and finish. Warranties are average for the class but you can prepay for service appointments, which can include replacement of wear items such as tires and brake pads.

Which M2 does Edmunds recommend?

As BMW equips the M2 with plenty of standard equipment, your main decision will be between the standard six-speed manual transmission and the optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The automatic provides quicker acceleration and effortless cruising — ideal if you sit in traffic often — while the manual provides a more engaging and rewarding driving experience. If you want the M2 in its purest form, get the manual. None of the available options is a must, but we would recommend the M Driver's package.

BMW M2 models

The 2020 BMW M2 Competition is a high-performance rear-wheel-drive coupe that's available in one trim level: the Competition. Most of the features you'd want come standard, and there are only a few packages and options to choose from. Under the hood is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder (405 horsepower, 406 lb-ft of torque) that's connected to a six-speed manual. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is optional.

Standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels, LED headlights, keyless ignition and entry, auto-dimming mirrors, leather upholstery, carbon-fiber interior trim, and power-adjustable M sport front seats with heating. The infotainment system includes an 8.8-inch central display, navigation, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and Apple CarPlay (subscription-based). On the safety front, forward collision warning and mitigation (with automatic emergency braking), lane departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors are all standard.

After that, the options list is pretty short. An Executive package adds a heated steering wheel, adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, speed limit info, wireless device charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The M Driver's package increases the M2's speed limiter from 155 mph to 174 mph and provides one day of training at a BMW high-performance driving school. A sunroof is offered as a stand-alone option.

Consumer reviews

There are no consumer reviews for the 2020 BMW M2.

Features & Specs

Competition 2dr Coupe features & specs
Competition 2dr Coupe 3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M
MSRP	$58,900
MPG	18 city / 25 hwy
Seating	Seats 4
Transmission	6-speed manual
Horsepower	405 hp @ 5230 rpm

See all for sale

See all 2020 BMW M2 features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite M2 safety features:

Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation: Alerts the driver about an imminent front collision and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time.
Lane Departure Warning: Monitors lane markings and alerts the driver when the M2 starts to drift out of its lane if the turn signal isn't applied.
Speed Limit Info: Displays the posted speed limit of the road you're driving on in the gauge cluster.

BMW M2 vs. the competition

BMW M2 vs. Audi RS 3

Audi's A3-based performance sedan, the RS 3, is a natural competitor for the BMW M2 even though it has two additional doors. The extra doors and slightly roomier back seat make the Audi a little more practical. You also get standard all-wheel drive, which helps with traction in wet-weather conditions. But from a driving perspective and having run on a racetrack or favorite back road, we recommend the BMW.

Compare BMW M2 & Audi RS 3 features

BMW M2 vs. Porsche 718 Cayman

Porsche's mid-engine coupe, the 718 Cayman, is one of the best-handling cars on the market. It gets the driver involved primarily through its communicative steering, which is superior to the M2's. It's a lighter car, too. Porsche also offers a lot more customization options on the Cayman. For everyday driving, however, the BMW could be the better choice because of its back seat and bigger trunk. It's also more affordable.

Compare BMW M2 & Porsche 718 Cayman features

BMW M2 vs. Tesla Model 3

You might not normally cross-shop an electric sedan with an M-branded performance car, but the Model 3 is good enough to make this possible. In its Performance guise, the Model 3 can easily out-accelerate the M2. The Model 3's handling is surprisingly sporty, too. Pricing is similar for the two cars. Go with the Tesla for practicality, all-wheel drive and reduced emissions. The M2 wins out on attitude and driver involvement.

Compare BMW M2 & Tesla Model 3 features

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FAQ

Is the BMW M2 a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 M2 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.0 out of 10. You probably care about BMW M2 fuel economy, so it's important to know that the M2 gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the M2 has 13.8 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a BMW M2. Learn more

What's new in the 2020 BMW M2?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 BMW M2:

No significant changes for 2020
Part of the first M2 generation introduced for 2016

Learn more

Is the BMW M2 reliable?

To determine whether the BMW M2 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the M2. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the M2's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2020 BMW M2 a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 BMW M2 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 M2 and gave it a 8.0 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 M2 is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2020 BMW M2?

The least-expensive 2020 BMW M2 is the 2020 BMW M2 Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $58,900.

Other versions include:

Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $58,900

Learn more

What are the different models of BMW M2?

If you're interested in the BMW M2, the next question is, which M2 model is right for you? M2 variants include Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M). For a full list of M2 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2020 BMW M2

2020 BMW M2 Overview

The 2020 BMW M2 is offered in the following submodels: M2 Coupe. Available styles include Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M).

What do people think of the 2020 BMW M2?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 BMW M2 and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 M2.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 BMW M2 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 M2 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2020 BMW M2?

2020 BMW M2 Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)

The 2020 BMW M2 Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $65,295. The average price paid for a new 2020 BMW M2 Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM) is trending $3,829 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $3,829 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $61,466.

The average savings for the 2020 BMW M2 Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM) is 5.9% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 10 2020 BMW M2 Competition 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

Which 2020 BMW M2s are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 BMW M2 for sale near. There are currently 16 new 2020 M2s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $59,895 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 BMW M2.

Can't find a new 2020 BMW M2s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new BMW M2 for sale - 12 great deals out of 18 listings starting at $9,012.

Find a new BMW for sale - 11 great deals out of 20 listings starting at $24,479.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2020 BMW M2?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out BMW lease specials

2020 BMW M2

2020 BMW M2 pricing

2020 BMW M2 Review