The all-new 2016 BMW M2 combines features and goodies from three of the inspiring models from the BMW paddock including the M235i, M3 and M4. However, the extra features have resulted in almost near negligible weight savings from the previous M2 model.

The new M2 seems to be like a beefed-up M235i featuring lightened suspension components and active rear differential. However, the featherweight feeling that car enthusiasts normally expect from a coupe is absent as the additional features have made the new M2 weigh 3450 pounds (with the dual clutch transmission) and with the manual transmission, its weight is even more; 3505 pounds.

The sides of the bodywork have been increased by 2.1 inches in the front and by 3.1 inches at the rear to fit the 19-inch forged wheels that have the Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber wrapped around them.

The front part of the new M2 is inspired by M235i and features larger intakes (for the additional engine radiator) to give it a steroid-added profile. At the rear end, the M2 has been fitted with a diffuser (not present in the M235i) and the scallops holding the taillights add the extra width to the rear.

Under the hood, the new 2016 BMW M2 features a 3L inline-6 manifold-integrated turbocharged engine with a TwinScroll exhaust. The M2 also comes with Valvetronic, direct injection and Double-VANOS along with crank bearings and pistons from M4 and M3.

Consequently, the new BMW M2 promises an output of 365 horsepower at 6500 rpm and a peak torque of 343 pound-feet at a very low 1400 rpm. These figures are 45 hp and 13 pound feet more than that of the M235i respectively and just 60 hp short of the M4 coupe’s power.

The new M2 also promises to deliver better performance with the 0-62 mph reached in 4.2 seconds with the DCT systems and in 4.4 seconds with the manual gearbox. The maximum speed is the same as the M235i which is 155 miles per hour.

Despite the fact that the manual gearbox seems to make the new M2 slower, it actually feels faster. The ‘rev matching’ feature enables the engine to automatically blip the throttle so as to make every gear shift seem like a perfect one. Additionally, the components of the manual gearbox are coated in carbon fiber making the gearing shifting even smoother.

The new M2’s rear wheel Active M differential is a huge advantage over the M235i. It features an electronically controlled multi-plate unit for keeping the wheel spin under check for improved traction. In very slippery roads, the electronically controlled Active M differential nearly locks down one wheel to exert a peak torque of as much as 1824 pound-feet to prevent the wheel from spinning out of control.

The M2 also features electric power steering replacing the older and more inefficient hydraulic power steering. The 2016 BMW M2 is expected to be available in four colors including Alpine White, Long Beach Blue metallic, Mineral Grey metallic and Black Sapphire metallic.