BMW has finally given enthusiasts what they’ve been asking for. After years of speculation and wishful thinking, the iconic M2 is officially getting the brand’s celebrated xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the 2027 model year.
The move brings the compact performance coupe closer than ever to its bigger siblings, the M3 and M4, while promising sharper acceleration and improved traction without compromising the car’s playful character.
BMW’s Smallest M Car Gets a Big Upgrade
At the heart of the new M2 xDrive sits the same 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine found in the rear-wheel-drive automatic version. Output remains unchanged at 473 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque.
While power figures stay the same, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system transforms how that performance reaches the road. The M2 xDrive comes exclusively with BMW’s eight-speed automatic transmission, meaning buyers looking for a manual gearbox will need to stick with the rear-wheel-drive variant.
Despite the addition of all-wheel drive, BMW has ensured that enthusiasts can still enjoy traditional rear-drive dynamics. Drivers can switch between AWD and RWD modes at the push of a button, allowing the car to send power exclusively to the rear wheels when desired.
Faster Off the Line Than Ever Before
The biggest advantage of xDrive is evident in the numbers.
BMW claims the new M2 xDrive can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, shaving 0.3 seconds off the rear-wheel-drive model’s time. That places it remarkably close to the larger and more powerful M4 Competition xDrive, despite giving up 50 horsepower to its bigger stablemate.
BMW has also equipped the M2 xDrive with model-specific tuning for its transfer case and wheel-slip management systems. Combined with a staggered wheel setup featuring 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch rear wheels, the car promises enhanced grip and stability during spirited driving.
For customers planning track days, BMW will also offer optional performance-oriented track tyres.
Top speed remains unchanged at 155 mph as standard. Buyers opting for the M Driver’s Package can unlock a higher top speed of 177 mph.
Performance Comes at a Cost
As with most all-wheel-drive systems, additional capability brings extra weight.
The new M2 xDrive tips the scales at 3,988 pounds, making it 121 pounds heavier than the rear-wheel-drive automatic model. Compared to the hardcore M2 CS, the gap grows to 218 pounds.
However, many buyers are likely to see the trade-off as worthwhile given the substantial improvement in traction and acceleration, particularly in less-than-ideal driving conditions.
New Blue Paint Steals the Spotlight
BMW is also introducing a striking new colour for the 2027 M2 lineup. The launch model shown in official images wears Individual Borusan Turkish Blue, a vibrant shade that perfectly complements the coupe’s muscular proportions.
The colour is expected to become one of the most sought-after options among enthusiasts looking to stand out from the crowd.
Pricing and Availability
BMW has confirmed that the 2027 M2 xDrive will start at $74,950 in the United States.
That represents a premium of $4,600 over the current rear-wheel-drive M2, but it still undercuts the M4 Competition xDrive by a significant $18,100.
With stronger acceleration, year-round usability, and the ability to switch back to rear-wheel-drive fun whenever desired, the M2 xDrive looks set to become one of the most compelling performance cars in BMW’s lineup when deliveries begin later this summer.
