The new BMW M2 is one of the stars at the current Detroit Auto Show and while it won’t be as limited as its predecessor – the 1M – the odds of getting your hands on one are still slimmer than other BMW models.

Continue Reading Below

According to Autocar, while just 450 1M models made it to the UK, BMW plans to bring 2000 M2 units to the UK, with the only constraint being the number it is able to produce. Same report says around 600 orders have already been put in for the M2 pushing new delivery dates into 2017.

The M2 has gone back to basics, but has added a modern twist. It uses a brand-new six-cylinder in-line engine, with M TwinPower Turbo technology and three-liter displacement, develops 272 kW/370 hp with peak torque of 465 Nm / 343 lb-ft. (Combined fuel consumption, with six-speed manual gearbox: 8.5 l/100 km [33.2 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 199 g/km; with optional M Double Clutch transmission [M DCT]: 7.9 l/100 km [35.8 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 185 g/km).

Peak torque of 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) can be increased to as much as 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) in short bursts under overboost.

READ THIS: Interview with BMW M2 Exterior Designer

All of that tech and power allows the M2, with the optional M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) in place and Launch Control activated, to sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.3 seconds (4.5 s with the six-speed manual gearbox). The top speed of the new BMW M2 is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). If the M Driver’s Package – which includes a BMW Driving Experience voucher for a track training course – is specified, this cut-off point doesn’t arrive until 270 km/h (168 mph).

Four colours are available on the M2: Sapphire Black, Alpine White, Mineral Grey and Long Beach Blue.

The M2 will be a rival to the Audi RS3 Sportback and Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG when sales begin on April 16.