How Emissions Regulations Helped Create the BMW M2 Competition
Normally, stricter emissions laws mean less performance. But in the case of the BMW M2, it got an upgrade.
Introduced last week, the 2019 BMW M2 Competition boasts 405 horsepower and 409 pound-feet of torque, thanks to a new engine based on the unit found in the M3 and M4. Believe it or not, the additional performance didn’t come from a desire to enhance performance, but as a necessity to help the sports coupe meet upcoming emissions regulations in Europe.
You see, the previous M2’s 365-horsepower engine would have a tough time meeting the new requirements without significant reengineering. So instead of investing into making the old motor work, BMW opted to just take the existing engine used in the M3 and M4 and detuned it so it fit into the M2’s lineup.
SEE ALSO: 2019 BMW M2 Competition Officially Arrives With 405 HP
According to a report, BMW recently tweaked the 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine so that it would meet the stricter Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) for emissions and fuel economy testing. Essentially, the older M2 engine wouldn’t comply without an overhaul, so it made more financial sense to just use the updated engine in the M2 Competition.
Needless to say, BMW is working on a next-generation M3 and M4, which means they will likely get a more powerful engine in the future. But until then, M2 enthusiasts can look forward to enhanced performance, all because of stricter emissions regulations.
[Source: Road & Track]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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