BMW M2 xDrive unveiled and confirmed for SA
A German automaker has unveiled an all-wheel-drive model, delivering sharper acceleration and improved grip, heading to Mzansi.
BMW has pulled the covers off for its smallest M car yet. Previously offered exclusively with rear-wheel drive, the M2 now gains BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, bringing added traction and performance to the compact performance coupe. Confirmed for South Africa, the new M2 M xDrive marks a significant evolution for the entry point into BMW’s M range.
The M2 M xDrive’s 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six produces the same 353kW and 600Nm as its rear-wheel-drive sibling. However, the all-wheel-drive model delivers its peak torque across a broader rev range, with the full 600Nm available from 2 200rpm to 5 600rpm, compared with 2 700rpm to 5 620rpm in the rear-wheel-drive variant.
Power is sent to all four wheels exclusively through BMW’s eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. Buyers who prefer a more engaging driving experience can still opt for the rear-wheel-drive M2, which remains available with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Despite weighing 60kg more than its rear-wheel-drive stablemate due to the addition of all-wheel drive, the M2 M xDrive is 0.3 seconds quicker from 0 to 100km/h. The claimed 1 790kg coupe completes the benchmark sprint in 3.7 seconds and reaches 200km/h in 12.8 seconds.
Top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h as standard, but opting for the M Driver’s Package raises the limiter to 285km/h.
BMW M2 xDrive SA launch date
BMW has confirmed the M2 xDrive will launch in South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2026. Local pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the unveil date.
The M2 M xDrive won’t be the only new M2 arriving in the country in 2026. Also scheduled for a fourth-quarter launch is the M2 RR Edition, an SA-only derivative that will be available in very limited numbers.
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