BMW Introduces All-Wheel-Drive Variant for 2027 M2

BMW M GmbH announced the 2027 BMW M2 with M xDrive, the first all-wheel-drive M2. The model keeps the 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six and eight-speed automatic; the six-speed manual is omitted. Production starts at the San Luis Potosí plant in August 2026, with U.S. deliveries slated for late summer 2026. The xDrive version starts at $74,950, a $4,600 premium over the 2026 base.

Road & Track

The powertrain delivers 473 hp (U.S.) and 443 lb-ft of torque; European specs list 480 hp. BMW claims 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds (U.S.) and 3.3 seconds with a one-foot rollout, 0.3 seconds quicker than the RWD M2. Top speed is limited to 155 mph, rising to 177 mph with the M Driver’s Package. Curb weight is 3,988 lb, about 185 lb heavier than the RWD model. Standard wheels are 19-inch front and 20-inch rear, with optional track tires. A new Individual Borusan Turkish Blue paint is available as a launch color.

BMW M2 Gets AWD For The First Time. Here Is What That Costs You

The M xDrive system uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, delivering a rear-biased torque split that engages the front axle only when rear traction is insufficient. A model-specific control unit and wheel-slip limiter operate independently of central DSC, enabling rapid torque redistribution. The powertrain also features BMW M Ignite pre-chamber combustion, reducing fuel consumption under high load while meeting EU7 emissions.

BMW M2 Gets AWD For The First Time. Here Is What That Costs You

BMW’s press release emphasizes that the M2 delivers the brand’s signature driving dynamics and that the addition of M xDrive expands the model line-up while preserving performance and all-season capability.

The new BMW M2 with M xDrive.

Critics point to the 185-218 lb weight increase and the loss of a manual transmission, which may dilute the M2’s driver-focused identity. The $4,600 price premium also raises value questions versus the higher-priced M4 Competition xDrive.

Road & Track

Sources differ on several figures: U.S. specs list 473 hp, while European data cite 480 hp; 0-60 times range from 3.6 s to 3.3 s; top-speed limits are given as 155 mph (250 km/h) and 177 mph (285 km/h) with the driver’s package. One blog suggests U.S. models lack the M Ignite system, a claim not reflected in the official release.

The new BMW M2 with M xDrive.

"M xDrive adds 185 lbs and cuts 0.3 seconds to 60 mph." — BMW Blog

The new BMW M2 with M xDrive.

"Drivers can configure the behavior through the M Setup menu, and — this is the part enthusiasts will care about — there is a 2WD mode with DSC fully deactivated that sends all torque rearward." — BMW Blog

BMW M2 Gets AWD For The First Time. Here Is What That Costs You

"M xDrive splits the power developed by the 353 kW/480 hp six-cylinder in-line engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology between the front and rear axles according to the situation at hand." — BMW Group Press Release

BMW M2 Gets AWD For The First Time. Here Is What That Costs You

"Munich. With its combination of extremely agile handling, M-typical performance and compact dimensions, the BMW M2 embodies unadulterated driving pleasure in its ultimate expression." — BMW Group Press Release

The new BMW M2 with M xDrive.

Production of the M2 xDrive begins in August 2026; U.S. sales start late summer 2026.

Road & Track