While the BMW M2 CS is widely considered a pinnacle of modern M-cars, critics and owners highlight several compromises, particularly when compared to the standard M2 Competition or previous generations. On the mechanical front, the latest G87 generation is only available with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, as a manual transmission could not handle the car’s increased 650 Nm of torque. Despite a 30kg weight reduction from carbon fiber parts, the car still carries a high curb weight of around 1,750 to 1,775 kg.
This leads critics to argue that it feels heavy and lacks the purity and tactility of lighter rivals like the Alpine A110. Additionally, while the steering is sharp and accurate, reviewers often note it feels a little numb, failing to communicate exactly how the front tires are loading up. Compounding these mechanical concerns, the front grilles feature large, open gaps without protective mesh, making the radiators and coolers highly susceptible to damage from road debris like stones and leaves.
Inside the cabin, the M2 CS presents several practicality and comfort drawbacks. To save weight, BMW removed the central armrest and standard cup holders, making daily driving inconvenient as items like keys and water bottles frequently slide around in the footwells. The Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel is also heavily criticized for being too thick, which can feel ungainly during spirited driving. While the car is more practical than a strict two-seater like a Porsche Cayman, the rear seats remain exceptionally tight for adults, and the aggressive carbon bucket seats make entry and exit noticeably more difficult.
From an ownership and financial standpoint, the M2 CS demands a steep premium. It is significantly more expensive than the standard M2—costing roughly £12,000 to £15,000 more in some markets, and nearly ₹70 lakh more in India, where it reaches ₹1.7 crore. Drivability in varied conditions is also limited; it comes standard with track-focused summer tires that struggle in cold or wet weather, often causing the rear end to step out even with partial throttle in M Dynamic Mode (MDM). Finally, because it is a limited-run model, securing an allocation or finding one for sale is challenging, and replacing any of the bespoke CS-specific carbon components can be prohibitively expensive.
