BMW is preparing to equip the compact M2 with xDrive all-wheel drive for the first time, bringing its smallest high-performance model closer to its M3, M4, and M5 siblings. The Bavarian manufacturer briefly hinted at the new M2 xDrive on its US website: this four-wheel-drive version will be offered alongside the current rear-wheel-drive M2, it will not replace it. The dual offering will therefore allow buyers to choose between the tradition of rear-wheel drive, which also maintains the possibility of a six-speed manual gearbox on the current range, and the advantages in terms of grip and safety of all-wheel drive.
BMW M2 also with all-wheel drive
According to information that has emerged and been reported by Autocar, the new M2 xDrive will adopt the 4WD system exclusively with the eight-speed automatic transmission and will follow the philosophy of the latest M models. Translated: a native rear-wheel-drive-oriented calibration with selectable driving modes, including a setting that allows driving with rear-wheel drive only. While many details remain confidential, the most reliable indications speak of maintaining the 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six “S58” gasoline engine, but with increased power towards a threshold closer to that of the M2 CS, to compensate for the addition of the all-wheel-drive components.
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xDrive System
The introduction of xDrive will, however, lead to an increase in mass due to the front drive shafts and transfer components, bringing the car’s curb weight close to 1.800 kg. In return, a significant improvement in standing start performance is expected, with a 0-100 km/h estimated under 4,0 seconds. BMW has scheduled the start of production for the M2 xDrive at the San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico for the middle of the year, with the goal of launching the car on the market in the second half of 2026.
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