“This car may be the best BMW I have ever had, and I've had BMW's for almost 20 years.”
2021 BMW M2: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2021 BMW M2 is the loss of the limited-production CS trim, leaving the Competition as the sole version. The M2 Competition itself carries over without major changes.
About the 2021 BMW M2
1st gen M2 (F87, 2016-2021), final US model year of the Competition-era car before the all-new 2023 second generation.
BMW positions the M2 as a compact high-performance coupe built around classic enthusiast ingredients: a straight-six engine, rear-wheel drive, compact size, and strong driver involvement. Its core appeal is that it delivers serious track-day character without giving up four seats, a usable trunk, navigation, heated seats, and everyday drivability. Compared with larger M cars, the M2 is the more concentrated, playful, less filtered choice.
The 2021 M2 Competition is BMW’s compact, driver-focused performance coupe, with rear-wheel drive and a standard 6-speed manual transmission. Its 405-hp twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, strong M Sport brakes, heated sport seats, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and harman/kardon audio balance serious performance with everyday usefulness.
What changed, by category
Trim lineup
The limited-production CS was dropped for 2021, leaving the M2 Competition as the sole trim.
2021 BMW M2 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 405 hp |
| Torque | 406 lb-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33 in |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Alarm System | |
| Automatic High Beams | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Heated Steering Wheel | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2021 BMW M2?
The limited-production CS trim was dropped for 2021, leaving the M2 Competition as the only version. The Competition’s engine, transmissions, styling, safety equipment, and technology otherwise carry over.
Is there a 2021 BMW M2 CS?
No. The CS was dropped from the 2021 M2 lineup, which consists only of the Competition trim.
Did the 2021 BMW M2 Competition get a different engine?
No. The 2021 M2 Competition retains its 405-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, rear-wheel drive, standard 6-speed manual, and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Is the 2021 BMW M2 the final first-generation model?
Yes. The 2021 M2 is the final U.S. model year of the first-generation F87 before BMW skipped 2022 and introduced the redesigned second-generation M2 for 2023.
Is the 2021 BMW M2 substantially different from the 2020 model?
No. The 2021 M2 Competition is largely unchanged from 2020; the meaningful lineup difference is that the CS trim is gone.
2021 BMW M2 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 BMW M2.
4.7
2021 BMW M2
(118 reviews)
“Very fun car to drive. Not for someone looking for economic gas mileage or extreme comfort.”
“If you can find one, buy it, nothing to think about. The M2 Competition is the best car I've ever owned and plan to keep it for a very long time. I'm in love with this beauty.”