The BMW M2 Coupe has been given the go-ahead, according to a report by Autocar. Given the internal codename G87, the second-generation M2 Coupe will retain its rear-wheel drive architecture as previously reported, unlike the rest of the 2 Series line-up.
The G87 M2 Coupe will be based on the forthcoming 2 Series Coupe (known internally as G42), which is reportedly built on BMW’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform. The chassis is said to be heavily related to the BMW Z4 and Toyota Supra.
According to the report, power will come from a detuned version of BMW M’s latest six-cylinder engine, the S58, which reportedly will also make an appearance on the upcoming M3 and M4 models.
Nothing is confirmed as of now, but the three-litre six-cylinder mill is expected to output north of 420 hp, 10 more than the current M2 Competition.
The BMW M2 Coupe will still be offered in both manual and automatic transmission. A eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox will replace the existing dual-clutch gearbox, matching developments elsewhere in the BMW M line-up.
The torque-converter gearbox will also be crucial for the 48V mild hybrid technology, as permitted by the CLAR platform. However, the M2 is expected to launch without the mild hybrid powertrain.
In addition to the G87 M2 Coupe, BMW is also reportedly set to offer a full-fledged M version of the four-door Gran Coupe, as well as the 1 Series, contrary to previous reports on the matter.
Rivalling the likes of the Mercedes A 45 and upcoming Audi RS3, the M2 GC will be powered by a highly-tuned two-litre four-cylinder engine from the M235i, producing about 400 hp. Power is sent to all four wheels via a fully-variable all-wheel drive system.
The same powertrain combo will also make its way down to the full-M 1 Series, which will most likely be named the 1 Series M Coupe, or affectionately called the BMW 1M. This is to avoid the legendary M1 nameplate, reserved only for the first M car ever produced.
