BMW M2 CS (G87) vs G87 M2: How the CS Raises the Bar

Photo credit: BMW USA

Published: October 6, 2025

By: Rich Xay 

BMW’s M division has done it again. The long-awaited G87 M2 CS has officially arrived, taking what was already one of BMW’s most dynamic compact coupes and sharpening it into a full-blown track weapon. But beyond the headline stats, the real story is how the M2 CS redefines engineering precision and what it means for current G87 owners looking to elevate their own cars.

The CS Philosophy: Sharpened, Not Rebuilt

Every “CS” model from BMW carries the same DNA: lighter, stiffer, faster, and more focused. The G87 M2 CS continues that lineage, refining rather than reinventing the M2 platform. It is not about radical change but about fine-tuning the formula that already worked.

Under the hood sits the same S58 twin-turbo inline-six found in the standard M2, but tuned for more aggression. Power is expected to climb from 453 horsepower to around 475, paired with a recalibrated eight-speed automatic and faster response mapping. The manual option remains, keeping the enthusiast spirit alive.

But numbers only tell part of the story. The CS is about feel, sharper turn-in, quicker transitions, and a chassis that communicates every millimeter of movement. BMW’s engineering team focused on the kind of subtle refinements that transform an already great car into something truly special.

Engineering Upgrades: Function Meets Precision

The G87 M2 CS inherits several key technologies and materials from the M3 and M4 CS, including increased use of carbon fiber in the roof, hood, and aerodynamic components. These changes drop weight and lower the car’s center of gravity, improving both stability and steering feel.

Revised adaptive dampers and bespoke suspension tuning tighten body control without sacrificing daily drivability. BMW M’s new calibration balances compliance with aggression, giving the CS a more natural rhythm on the road and sharper feedback on track.

Braking has also received an upgrade, with standard carbon-ceramic options and improved cooling. Combined with stickier Michelin Pilot Cup 2 tires, the M2 CS delivers more confidence under pressure.

Design and Aero: Aggression Refined

Visually, the M2 CS looks familiar yet distinct. The stance sits lower, the carbon fiber roof shaves weight, and the front splitter and rear diffuser give it an unmistakable motorsport edge. Small aero tweaks improve airflow and high-speed stability, but the design remains unmistakably M2, muscular, compact, and balanced.

Inside, lightweight M Carbon seats, Alcantara trim, and unique CS badging create an environment that feels focused but not stripped. It is performance luxury executed the BMW way.

The Performance Gap: CS vs Standard G87 M2

On paper, the CS might seem like a modest step up, but the cumulative improvements create a noticeable difference in feel. Expect faster lap times, improved throttle precision, and a level of composure that pushes the M2 deeper into M4 territory.

The real difference is in the chassis tuning. The G87 M2 was already a capable platform, but the CS unlocks its full potential with revised suspension geometry, faster electronic dampers, and recalibrated differential behavior. It is not just faster; it is more communicative and balanced at the limit.

How G87 M2 Owners Can Benefit

Here is where things get exciting for current M2 owners. The release of the CS means a wave of new aftermarket development is on the horizon. Many of its performance parts and calibrations can eventually be adapted to the standard M2.

Expect tuning firms and performance brands to begin offering:

• CS-inspired software tuning for throttle response, transmission behavior, and differential mapping.

• Lightweight carbon components like hoods, spoilers, and diffusers modeled after the CS aero package.

• CS-style suspension upgrades, including stiffer bushings, performance dampers, and geometry tweaks.

• Interior conversions featuring M Carbon seats, Alcantara accents, and CS-style trim pieces.

For G87 M2 owners, this is the golden era of modification. The CS does not make your M2 outdated, it opens the door for more precise, race-tested upgrades that filter down from BMW’s own development program.

The RMD Performance Perspective

At RMD Performance, we view the G87 M2 CS as a benchmark for what is possible. It is not just about adding power but about engineering harmony, every piece of the car working together to create balance and emotion.

As the aftermarket catches up, standard G87 M2 owners will benefit immensely. We are already seeing growing interest in CS-style carbon parts, performance tunes, and handling kits aimed at capturing that sharper, more dynamic edge.

The M2 platform remains one of the most exciting canvases BMW has built in years. Whether you own the standard M2 or plan to step into the CS, the engineering spirit that defines BMW M performance has never been stronger.

Final Thoughts

The G87 M2 CS does not replace the standard M2, it enhances the legacy. It represents what happens when BMW takes a driver’s car and adds layers of focus, feel, and precision.

And for those already behind the wheel of a G87, the message is simple: the CS is not competition. It is inspiration.