The timing and buildup of "if it's gonna be ugly, it better be fast" and the delivery of "that'll make a little easier and more convenient getting your ticket on your way to work" Man, you just get what it takes to assemble a great vid like a masterchef. That's what TG had for me and keeps pleasing me everytime I re-watch it. Really appreciating the extra effort, it really shows! I'd add to the conclusion that yeah you sit in it and don't have to see it...but everyone else does. Now the new M2 doesn't have the rear seat capability it used to have and is challenging to look at. Why not buy a Supra manual is my question and save 10k or 10k more and get a M3 and have a good looking car from most angles
@@Lurkindork I have not read that but if anybody can shed a light on that, I'd love to know aswell! BMW has denied making a Z4M because they say the numbers don't add up so if Toyota picks up the mantle, that will be a heck of a car.
Idk why but I prefer the laidback feel of the old TST. This is borderline cringy sometimes, especially when theres channels like ThrottleHouse. We already have plenty of channels with fancy camerawork. But I also know the channel probably needed this change to appeal more to the masses and the channels growth lately does prove "who cares what I think"
Now they just need a few good dedicated shooters who know what they are doing and know how to light. The lack of in car lighting (BTW guys…shoot early morning or late day for less harsh sun issues) really shows they are not there yet. Study the Carfection channel for tips. Superb shooting and lighting as well as story narrative over there. Henry Catchpool and his team are on point. Now with the backing of motor trend. I give this a solid B production value wise.
I like the switch up in format you two have implemented recently in your videos, feels like a real bump in quality. Voice over, editing, I’m really enjoying them even more. I hope the considerable efforts it takes pays off in more views 👍👍
I'll be honest here I really like the M2 and it's grown on me immensely however as good of a car it is it just feels like it's a step forward and backwards from the predecessor it's a bit of a hit and a miss in some aspects Still the new M2 is definitely one of the best cars you can get in today's market amazing value too it shows that BMW still knows how to make good cars and the M2 lives up to its name it's just so conflicting that the new M2 is really good for what it is then you look at the last gen especially the Comp and CS and you start to miss that kind of elegance and simplicity BMWs once had
I'm on my third 2 Series coupe and I would consider myself the target demographic of this vehicle. My only complaint about the latest 2 Series is that my son feels like the back seats are a little tight. That was never the case in the previous gen. Fortunately, I have the 2022, with the physical buttons. I had a loaner 2023 with the touchscreen and it was an awful experience. The latest gen has all of the safety features (e.g., blind spot monitoring, 360 camera) I want along with comfort features. It's the perfect Friday to Sunday car for me. I get that many people don't like the new M2 design, but I like it. It's interesting and memorable. And for under $70K, I get everything I want? I think it's a lot of car for the money.
I really enjoyed your newer video format. The added music, and B roll really add to the already great commentary. I’m glad to see the reviews getting more cinematic without coming off as a top gear clone. Great work!
Love the "newer" style of videos so much, as it seems more like a bourdainesque skript that you are performing - enhanced by great video material! cheers tst crew edit: and Zack's punchline "grabs you like parent's grab a five year old"...that's simply great and reminds me an awful lot of his infamous punchline "the honda's power is manageable - like a hamster is manageable"...rofl
I appreciate the extra work that went into this video, but honestly I love the Two Takes model. It feels so organic compared to so many other review channels. I'm happy to watch what you put out regardless!
1M was a truly good little car, hit all the checkmarks of what a small M car should be. Unfortunately, kids don't seem to care much for character, just the numbers, the gadgets, and the clout.
Unpopular opinion: this M2 is not ugly. Beautiful BMW? Nope. I reserve that for the E46 M3, as to me, none of the subsequent M3s were ever able to be as gorgeous as the E46 M3 CSL. But this M2 doesn't even have the "beaver tooth" grille and STILL everyone is complaining about it. It's hard to please BMW people, that's for sure. I bet Bangle agrees with me. 🙂
its defenetly weird looking but suprisingly the thing i hate the most is the dashboard , i really hate this new trend of splapping 2 tablets in front of you and calling it a dashboard , looks so basic and cheap . This color hides the ugly lines a little bit by not being a light metallic color at least on camera and that helps it a bit . Nice video production , hope its working for you guys!
BMW is definitely one of the worst offenders when it comes to putting screens in cars. I understand that screens are the future, but you'd think that in an almost six-figure luxury car they could spend a little effort integrating them into the design. Honestly, the new GM trucks look far more upscale with how they integrated their screens.
Agreed, looks like trash and you will be looking at it ALL the time. It just looks cheap and like they couldn't be bothered to design a nice dash. You can still have screens and make it look good, the last gen Mercedes S Class Coupe is a good example of that.
BMW forgot to add lightness to the new M2. Its curb weight is only 33 pounds less than my Audi S4 (B9) and it's 176 pounds more than an Audi RS3. Since Audi dealers will likely continue putting absurd markups on the RS3, my next car might be a BMW. I would have considered the M2 as my retirement toy, but the more I learn about the new M2, the more interested I am in the M3. The M3 Comp xDrive weighs 176 pounds more than the M2 (curious symmetry there) but the AWD, extra performance, and usable back seats are more than enough to offset and justify the weight difference.
Agree the styling of the M2 kills it for me. Reminds me of when BMW redesigned the 5 series in early 2000's and that was it for me - sold my 1998 540i and moved on rather than trade in for the newest 540... I miss the pre- 2000 days of BMW
The previous M2 and M5 were the last attractive BMW’s to me. I’m a lifelong BMW M buyer, and now I can sadly say there is not one current BMW I like the looks of except maybe they M8, but I’m sure that will be hit with the corporate ugly stick with the next redesign.
I just don’t understand the point of the M2 anymore. Weighs the same as an M4, with a little less power and useless back seats. Just don’t see the value with it
Yeah i think people are better off with a Cayman or an Emira. If practicality matters, I would get an RS3. I have no issues with this car, I actually like the design. The problem is the weight, its a bit heavy for a small sports car.
M2 is cheaper and the exterior dimensions are smaller. The M4 is hugeeee. Even compared to the M3 it’s massive. Not 100% sure, but I believe the backseat dimensions are very similar between the M2 and M4 even though the M4 is significantly larger. Edit: Also cost. M2 is cheaper.
@@pascutia M4 is a boat, but the M2 isn’t far behind. Cost is a factor but with the M240i coming with available AWD and pretty insane performance from the B58, if I want an automatic transmission sport coupe from BMW, is the M2 that big of an upgrade over the M240i? It just seems that BMW has put the M2 in a weird spot
I consider myself a BMW purist, and as much as I loved the prior M2 and 1M before it, I actually think BMW did a great job with the looks of this car. I DO NOT like the new driver screen in ANY new models BMW, to me this is a drastic miss, so much, I purchased an older model to keep the analog we are accustomed to. If BMW can remedy this by building a dash board to integrate the screen and give owners the ability to run analog displays, I’d be all in on their new design. I like the new M2, but as a brand, until they fix my biggest gripe, I’ll keep buying the previous models when I want a new BMW. Great video Matt & Zach.
If I don't like the way it looks I am not going to spend money on it. BMW needs to get through whatever design phase they're going through as quickly as possible. Also how did they end up making the back seat useless?
I’m 6’0 and can sit behind myself just fine. Only complaint is headroom. You can’t sit up straight and will have to sit back. Definitely can’t get a sunroof
have not watched tst in a while (even tho i do watch the podcast) and i can tell the changes yall have implemented are honestly great, will be watching everything now fr love it
That S58 engine is an absolute savage. I have it in my M3, I can’t imagine that engine in a smaller car like the M2… the S58 will push 600hp + with just a tune. Insane.
7:35 Imagine how much of a failure a driver would have to be to repeatedly get a speeding ticket at the same location so often. That's like Bart Simpson touching the hot stove burner over and over saying "ouch" each time, never learning.
Nice vid! It's great that it drives well, but as my daily, I'm still choosing a G80 M3. I could have it with a manual and an added bonus is that a used '21 or '22 has iDrive 7 so you don't have to deal with the buttonless new system. I also think it looks a ton better than this new M2, plus it rides nicer and has enough practicality to do whatever you need it to. Yes, it's gotten bigger, but it barely weighs more than the M2 and that's wild considering we're talking about a small-ish coupe. Having owned an F87, I'm sure it's a blast to drive, but I'm with Zack. I just can't get over its wacky looks.
I'll keep my CT4V Blackwing deposit. I was waiting for the M2 reviews to see if I'd want to place a deposit on one, but after watching and reading a few, the new M2 just isn't it. Plus I HAAAATTTEEE that hideous dash/infotainment system. You can really tell that GM went with a no-nonsense engineering approach with the 4BW. No gimmicks. No stupid drift mode. 18 inch wheels. Just an all business, well engineered and designed sport sedan that is truly track ready. While I feel that BMW just seems to be made with design first, then engineering approach. But BMW still failed at it. Maybe BMW will listen to its fans and update it for the next model year. The looks of the M2 has actually grown on me, but I hate that god-awful interior and gimmickry. Leave that crap to the non-M models. M models should be all business.
@@John.Christopher I put in a deposit on December 31st, 2022 and still waiting. But I am first on the list for the next allocation, whenever that may be. Hopefully soon.
I'm in the market for something in this price range but I could not walk out to this thing everyday no matter how lovely it is. Perhaps I'll just stick with my Raptor until I can get a 718 Spyder.
I like the video, well done. I’m having a hard time imagining an E92 M3 being able to fit within the footprint of this thing. Man the 2 series is huge.
Great video, BWM M cars always had some of the best analogue dials that gave you everything you needed, I hate all this digital dash stuff, and it really doesnt age well. Do we really need cars this big and heavy!!
Great review gents. Production quality is fantastic! I’m one of the few that loves the lines of the M2. I will wait to see one in person before making any sudden moves but feeling the itch to upgrade from my MK7.5 Golf R.
Liked the old style, just driving and talking about the car, it felt more organic and it's what diversified your channel from others. Also gave a better feel for the driving experience. Polished and production and dialogue just for entertainment sake I guess is the way things are going.
Great writing and review. I personally don't hate the styling. While the previous M2 was prettier in a traditional sense, I think the new M2 looks really aggressive, especially from the side profile with the accentuated fender flares. The fact that it is now wider and more stable also makes it more approachable for someone looking to step up from a lower power RWD car.
I will say the color options are a bit disappointing though. Was hoping for some more interesting combos like the Isle of Man green you can get on the M3
As an m2 comp owner i love that it has manual handbrake and an analogue dash. It's a keeper for me. I do love the new m2 and contrary to other overwhelming opinions i think it looks pretty good. Amazing car.
Loving this format guys, I hope you'll find it worth it to continue doing them like this. It's pretty clear the amount of effort and thought that went into it. Great content like always.
@@TheSmokingTireyes, but I’m sure the majority of folks hating on the design haven’t actually seen one in person. Hard to accurately assess until then imo
I have to agree. I was hating it in photos and then I test drove a black one and thought it looked pretty good. Maybe the fact it was black hid all the awkwardness.
I personally like how it looks. Kudos to the last videos. The two car format with ev and hybrid was better than the first video done like that. This last one has a better rhythm going back to back in between you two.
Hilarious video title. Zack that Ibiza joke had me rolling. I think yall either got really lucky having the auto or chose correctly. Several other reviewers that had manuals seemed to like that it came with a manual but seemed less than impressed with it after a drive. The guys over at throttle house even suggested that if you buy one, buy the auto, cause it's that much better. In their opinion. The kinda people that own a previous M2 in stick and are waiting for a lotus with a stick suggested the auto. That signals it makes a huge difference. If the opportunity arises you all should get a stick version and see if it's still out runs it's face with two less gears that have been stretched to cover the same distance. Killer work guys!
to me, the last gen M2 looked like something a woman would drive. small and rounded, nothing particularly interesting about it, dull, not masculine in the least. this one looks like a bruiser from every angle, super aggressive, with a lot of neat angular shapes, just way more visually interesting looking to my eye. funny how polarizing the damn thing is, i dont get it, at all.
LMAO, love the design hate, carwow was the only one who was afraid to tell the truth, according to throttle house, they had warnings from bmw not to criticize design, so here you have it, SmokingTire not giving a damn and staying genuine
@@mala6238 Exactly, I love all the ppl saying it looks great or love the looks. Yea, show me how much you like it, are you going to buy it? Hell nah. These are the same people crying about wagons but never buy em. LOL
@@StrollingOnMoon Some people sing off key and can't hear why, they actually think they are singing on key. It is the same people who like bad designs and you can't fix it by teaching. It is brain software.
I love the long hood short deck profile ...and the pronounced squarish wheel fenders hearkens back to the original M3. Overall I really like the blend of classic yet quirky 2 door coupe styling ...I'd say it's interesting rather than weird or ugly which I prefer vs anodyne or generic.
I agree. I honestly quite like the look of this M2. Not necessarily more than the last gen. Just in a different way. There are things I would take from both cars and meld together to make my perfect M2
Yooo long time viewer since garage 419. I love the return to form-ish style. Remember that vid years ago when you took that Volvo polestar wagon on a road trip? Wouldn’t hate those style vids either. Well done lads! Come one take my 240 if you’re ever in New Hampshire
Good points about styling. A lot of styles deemed ugly initially are now classics. I kind of like the more angular look of the m2. Reminds me of 80s/90s.
Unless BMW has changed it radically since the last generation M2, I don’t know why anyone would voluntarily choose the Sport+ throttle mapping. It doesn’t give you any extra power, it just means you get 2/3 of the output in the first 1/4 of pedal travel. Yeah, it makes it feel faster taking off, but trying to balance the car mid-corner becomes an exercise in frustration. I think the fact that in the 1st gen, turning off all the stability nannies automagically the throttle in Sport, not Sport+, tells you all you need to know about what the engineers and test drivers thought was the best one for driving fast.
I enjoyed the new camera work, editing style and the way the review was quickly sliced up. It was dynamic n' looked great (though some of the shots on the fisheye lens, idk about them - think I'd almost always prefer a less distorted, wide angle from a greater distance). But overall, this was fantastic. My real regret with this episode, though - the camera placement most certainly forced Matt/ Zach to be separated while doing their review, which is a pity. One of the best things about TST, are the interactions between you guys! Is it possible to find a happy medium, in future? Keeping the great camera work, the quick editing style - but have both Matt & Zach in the car, together! For those cool interactions n' laughs that make TST different from all the other review channels
Its DISGUSTING!! I just dont understand bmw styling?!?! They use to be so nice and clean, but lately!! Its like they are trying to prove bmw fanbois will buy ANYTHING!!!!
I feel like a lot of the awkwardness could have been avoided if they had only kept some of the double circle influence in the headlights even if they needed to square of some edges to match the more squared look in total. The taillights to me don’t match the shape either. Personally I don’t mind the shape that much. However I do not understand why cars have to continue growing within their own classes. Why not save the dimensions and weight targets. The things that make the biggest difference in how a car feels. The last M2 with its double circle headlights and typical double kidney grill (not oversized) and the beautifully styled but not loud taillights. All of these things complimented the shape. Now the lights and arches seem like a bit of an afterthought to me. The last M2 CS with this engine but in the Factory M3/M4 tune would have made the perfect BMW experience. At least for what I feel most enthusiasts are looking for.
I bought a '22 230 last year mainly because of this and another YT channels reviews. I love the styling of the 230/240 and the M2 is growing on me. Those spy pics that came out a few months ago had me gagging but seeing it now, I don't think it's ugly at all. One change that I think would help slightly though is a bezel around the kidneys. Someone on the TH vid said it looked like a Lego car.
The car just looks absolutely stunning. This is the only BMW car of which I really like the style. People were just used to the previous styles. This style removes some curves I really dislike of most BMWs. I love it.
Excellent review. Having owned a 2024 M2 manual for a few months now I can concur with just about everything you have said. It is an amazing car and compares well against any sports car at any price point. Engineering excellence!! A total bargain when price is considered.
I think this car just looks different, that's all. The M3 and M4 took so much hate for their front end and now people are used to it and live they look pretty good. I saw a grey M240i at my Dealership and fell in love with it straight away. Also the rear lights don't look half as bad in person. I would go for a black M2. Where else do you find a straight six with that performance and the superb build quality? The predecessor has an outdated interior and infotainment system. The DCT isn't a smooth as the ZF 8 Speed especially around town and lower speeds. So, I kinda really like the M2.
How much better is this than the already very fast (new) M240i though, when its essentially the same car with a bit more power? Also, my favorite thing about my own M2 was the rapid-fire DCT transmission. It felt race-car quick and was dramatic and great fun to use. I cant imagine the ZF8 offering anywhere near the same blazing fast downshifts.
I was unaware of the G87 M2’s existence until I saw one recently at my local dealer. I want to emphasize that I had never seen one in person, in a photo or video and was therefore totally unaware of the substantial dislike of its styling. I was looking at a base model 2 series coupe and was really impressed with interior design and space for someone like me who is 6’ 3” tall but I said the the salesman that I felt the exterior seemed a little bland for me. He pointed me towards an M2 sitting in the delivery bay awaiting collection. OMG - It was absolutely stunning IMO. I looked at it close up, stood back, walked around it and loved everything about it. My point being that I can’t help but feel that BMW enthusiasts generally loved the original M2 and were shocked when the new one didn’t look anything like what they expected a BMW should be and therefore hated it. I honestly believe the G87 will stand the test of time and will become one of BMW’s all time greats.
Not only does the styling turn off a lot of people on the outside, but I'm also not a fan of a giant rectangle screen that looks glued to the dash. Maybe you forget about it once you get used to it, but looking at it from the side, it looks lazy. Almost like they didn't know what to do with the dash or instrument panel, so they did nothing, and just stuck a huge screen up there.
Just rented one of these on Turo, same color, 6spd manual trans, and man does it cook! Power everywhere, my wife loved the interior styling. Got to drive some of the same hills and roads matt drives. Really a great car, and everywhere I went dudes were breaking their necks and giving me thumbs up. Not a fan of the looks but i think i could get over it.
Even though the ROI in terms of viewership may not be there, I thoroughly enjoy this style of TST videos. Excellent work Matt and Zack.
It can lead to growth hopefully
The ROI is there
Shout out to the TST folks that have been supportive through thick and thin. Haters get left on read.
Facts i really think they can benefit of the core fans with youtube's membership system. and add discord benefits etc.
Agreed. This is excellent motor journalism, so refreshing in this era of ADHD tiktok laziness.
"But like a mule heading to Ibiza, most of the weight comes from what they put inside the body." Well done Zack.
😂😂😂😂
Ya.. when he said that I clapped 😄
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
My man Zach with the bars 😎
Came straight to the comments after hearing that 🤣
Didn’t sound forced at all 🤮
The timing and buildup of "if it's gonna be ugly, it better be fast"
and the delivery of "that'll make a little easier and more convenient getting your ticket on your way to work"
Man, you just get what it takes to assemble a great vid like a masterchef.
That's what TG had for me and keeps pleasing me everytime I re-watch it.
Really appreciating the extra effort, it really shows!
I'd add to the conclusion that yeah you sit in it and don't have to see it...but everyone else does.
Now the new M2 doesn't have the rear seat capability it used to have and is challenging to look at.
Why not buy a Supra manual is my question and save 10k or 10k more and get a M3 and have a good looking car from most angles
The Supra MT is looking better and better by the day.
But yes, huge second on the overall show production!
I don’t remember where but i read that the a90 supra will one day come with an s58 before the z4 platform dies. Correct me if im wrong.
@@Lurkindork I have not read that but if anybody can shed a light on that, I'd love to know aswell!
BMW has denied making a Z4M because they say the numbers don't add up so if Toyota picks up the mantle, that will be a heck of a car.
Idk why but I prefer the laidback feel of the old TST. This is borderline cringy sometimes, especially when theres channels like ThrottleHouse. We already have plenty of channels with fancy camerawork. But I also know the channel probably needed this change to appeal more to the masses and the channels growth lately does prove "who cares what I think"
@@botdingo i agree. This new format only works for non performance drivers cars like the SUVs
Holy shit this channel’s production quality has gone from decent to amazing!! I’m loving the new smoking tire!
Now they just need a few good dedicated shooters who know what they are doing and know how to light.
The lack of in car lighting (BTW guys…shoot early morning or late day for less harsh sun issues) really shows they are not there yet.
Study the Carfection channel for tips. Superb shooting and lighting as well as story narrative over there. Henry Catchpool and his team are on point. Now with the backing of motor trend.
I give this a solid B production value wise.
Love the extra editorial polish guys. Nice work. Watching to the end "for the numbers" so that your effort pays off!
"Polish guys"
:)
Yeah 🇵🇱!!!
@@jareknowak8712 😂😂👍🏻🇵🇱
Matt Farahski and Zack Klapmanski
I prefer the one take format. But I did like “like a mule headed to Ibiza…” 😂
I like the switch up in format you two have implemented recently in your videos, feels like a real bump in quality. Voice over, editing, I’m really enjoying them even more. I hope the considerable efforts it takes pays off in more views 👍👍
Always appreciated the high quality insights and now production quality to match. Great work!
I'll be honest here I really like the M2 and it's grown on me immensely however as good of a car it is it just feels like it's a step forward and backwards from the predecessor it's a bit of a hit and a miss in some aspects
Still the new M2 is definitely one of the best cars you can get in today's market amazing value too it shows that BMW still knows how to make good cars and the M2 lives up to its name it's just so conflicting that the new M2 is really good for what it is then you look at the last gen especially the Comp and CS and you start to miss that kind of elegance and simplicity BMWs once had
Damn these narrated videos are choice. Excellent work Zack and Matt!
I'm on my third 2 Series coupe and I would consider myself the target demographic of this vehicle. My only complaint about the latest 2 Series is that my son feels like the back seats are a little tight. That was never the case in the previous gen. Fortunately, I have the 2022, with the physical buttons. I had a loaner 2023 with the touchscreen and it was an awful experience.
The latest gen has all of the safety features (e.g., blind spot monitoring, 360 camera) I want along with comfort features. It's the perfect Friday to Sunday car for me.
I get that many people don't like the new M2 design, but I like it. It's interesting and memorable. And for under $70K, I get everything I want? I think it's a lot of car for the money.
The Pontiac Aztec is definitely interesting and memorable too.
yep, people are being really whiny with this car...this car is 95% of a m4 for $20k less? sounds amazing if you ask me
Your best review yet - loving this new, more editorialised, style. Please keep it up and thank you!
You guys have completely reeled me back in with this new video style. It reminds me of the OG TST videos and why I fell in love with the channel.
This format is absolutely just killer. This style is just incredible
The new viewers here might view this as every other m2 video. The veterans appreciate the extra polish and intros. Can’t wait for the next review
I really enjoyed your newer video format. The added music, and B roll really add to the already great commentary. I’m glad to see the reviews getting more cinematic without coming off as a top gear clone. Great work!
Love the "newer" style of videos so much, as it seems more like a bourdainesque skript that you are performing - enhanced by great video material! cheers tst crew
edit: and Zack's punchline "grabs you like parent's grab a five year old"...that's simply great and reminds me an awful lot of his infamous punchline "the honda's power is manageable - like a hamster is manageable"...rofl
I appreciate the extra work that went into this video, but honestly I love the Two Takes model. It feels so organic compared to so many other review channels. I'm happy to watch what you put out regardless!
A really cool video would be if you guys could get a 1M from 2011 and both drive it back to back with a manual version of the new M2
1M was a truly good little car, hit all the checkmarks of what a small M car should be. Unfortunately, kids don't seem to care much for character, just the numbers, the gadgets, and the clout.
Unpopular opinion: this M2 is not ugly.
Beautiful BMW? Nope. I reserve that for the E46 M3, as to me, none of the subsequent M3s were ever able to be as gorgeous as the E46 M3 CSL. But this M2 doesn't even have the "beaver tooth" grille and STILL everyone is complaining about it. It's hard to please BMW people, that's for sure. I bet Bangle agrees with me. 🙂
its defenetly weird looking but suprisingly the thing i hate the most is the dashboard , i really hate this new trend of splapping 2 tablets in front of you and calling it a dashboard , looks so basic and cheap .
This color hides the ugly lines a little bit by not being a light metallic color at least on camera and that helps it a bit .
Nice video production , hope its working for you guys!
Totally agree. I'm in the market for a new car and I absolutely despise the dual screen garbage.
BMW is definitely one of the worst offenders when it comes to putting screens in cars. I understand that screens are the future, but you'd think that in an almost six-figure luxury car they could spend a little effort integrating them into the design. Honestly, the new GM trucks look far more upscale with how they integrated their screens.
Agreed, looks like trash and you will be looking at it ALL the time. It just looks cheap and like they couldn't be bothered to design a nice dash. You can still have screens and make it look good, the last gen Mercedes S Class Coupe is a good example of that.
They really messed up the exterior design, even the beautiful mirrors got destroyed after so many years 😢
I absolutely love the design..I don't see a problem with it.
Same here
BMW forgot to add lightness to the new M2. Its curb weight is only 33 pounds less than my Audi S4 (B9) and it's 176 pounds more than an Audi RS3. Since Audi dealers will likely continue putting absurd markups on the RS3, my next car might be a BMW. I would have considered the M2 as my retirement toy, but the more I learn about the new M2, the more interested I am in the M3. The M3 Comp xDrive weighs 176 pounds more than the M2 (curious symmetry there) but the AWD, extra performance, and usable back seats are more than enough to offset and justify the weight difference.
Agree the styling of the M2 kills it for me. Reminds me of when BMW redesigned the 5 series in early 2000's and that was it for me - sold my 1998 540i and moved on rather than trade in for the newest 540... I miss the pre- 2000 days of BMW
The previous M2 and M5 were the last attractive BMW’s to me. I’m a lifelong BMW M buyer, and now I can sadly say there is not one current BMW I like the looks of except maybe they M8, but I’m sure that will be hit with the corporate ugly stick with the next redesign.
I just don’t understand the point of the M2 anymore. Weighs the same as an M4, with a little less power and useless back seats. Just don’t see the value with it
Yeah i think people are better off with a Cayman or an Emira. If practicality matters, I would get an RS3. I have no issues with this car, I actually like the design. The problem is the weight, its a bit heavy for a small sports car.
M2 is cheaper and the exterior dimensions are smaller. The M4 is hugeeee. Even compared to the M3 it’s massive. Not 100% sure, but I believe the backseat dimensions are very similar between the M2 and M4 even though the M4 is significantly larger.
Edit: Also cost. M2 is cheaper.
Really doesn't make any sense. Plus, it isn't that "compact" either. Not even mentioning that very "special" design...
For what it's worth the M4 and M2 weighed the same last generation too.
@@pascutia M4 is a boat, but the M2 isn’t far behind. Cost is a factor but with the M240i coming with available AWD and pretty insane performance from the B58, if I want an automatic transmission sport coupe from BMW, is the M2 that big of an upgrade over the M240i? It just seems that BMW has put the M2 in a weird spot
The S58 is such an amazing engine. It is in the M2 & M3 and puts out anywhere from 450 - 800+ HP.
I'll keep my E92 M3
👍🏽
No one cares about your 15 year old M3 lmao. Have fun with VANOS and rod bearing failures
Back to putting more into your videos that you get out? Or you just can’t help but make the best? Amazing video guys!
I consider myself a BMW purist, and as much as I loved the prior M2 and 1M before it, I actually think BMW did a great job with the looks of this car. I DO NOT like the new driver screen in ANY new models BMW, to me this is a drastic miss, so much, I purchased an older model to keep the analog we are accustomed to. If BMW can remedy this by building a dash board to integrate the screen and give owners the ability to run analog displays, I’d be all in on their new design. I like the new M2, but as a brand, until they fix my biggest gripe, I’ll keep buying the previous models when I want a new BMW. Great video Matt & Zach.
If I don't like the way it looks I am not going to spend money on it.
BMW needs to get through whatever design phase they're going through as quickly as possible.
Also how did they end up making the back seat useless?
I would t say it’s useless. I’m 5’10” and had to tilt my head to sit back there. If you were 5’7” or under it would be fine.
I’m 6’0 and can sit behind myself just fine. Only complaint is headroom. You can’t sit up straight and will have to sit back. Definitely can’t get a sunroof
have not watched tst in a while (even tho i do watch the podcast) and i can tell the changes yall have implemented are honestly great, will be watching everything now fr love it
That front ends tho🫣
That S58 engine is an absolute savage. I have it in my M3, I can’t imagine that engine in a smaller car like the M2… the S58 will push 600hp + with just a tune. Insane.
I actually really like the exterior design. It finally has something from the E36/E34/E46 which is the direction BMW should follow.
Really? You're kidding, right?
Not really. The front bumper only, but everything else is far from the E36/46
Small thing, but the editing from matt on the outside in the beginning to zack in the car felt kinda like og top gear. Wicked cool
Love this new style of videos from you guys, hopefully it pays off in the long run!
7:35 Imagine how much of a failure a driver would have to be to repeatedly get a speeding ticket at the same location so often. That's like Bart Simpson touching the hot stove burner over and over saying "ouch" each time, never learning.
Nice vid! It's great that it drives well, but as my daily, I'm still choosing a G80 M3. I could have it with a manual and an added bonus is that a used '21 or '22 has iDrive 7 so you don't have to deal with the buttonless new system. I also think it looks a ton better than this new M2, plus it rides nicer and has enough practicality to do whatever you need it to. Yes, it's gotten bigger, but it barely weighs more than the M2 and that's wild considering we're talking about a small-ish coupe. Having owned an F87, I'm sure it's a blast to drive, but I'm with Zack. I just can't get over its wacky looks.
Idk man, it looks normal compared to the g80/82 cars with that oversized grille
maybe it’s just been awhile since I’ve been here, but the combo of Matt and Zack is fantastic. one takes are great.. but this is better. well done!
I'll keep my CT4V Blackwing deposit. I was waiting for the M2 reviews to see if I'd want to place a deposit on one, but after watching and reading a few, the new M2 just isn't it. Plus I HAAAATTTEEE that hideous dash/infotainment system. You can really tell that GM went with a no-nonsense engineering approach with the 4BW. No gimmicks. No stupid drift mode. 18 inch wheels. Just an all business, well engineered and designed sport sedan that is truly track ready. While I feel that BMW just seems to be made with design first, then engineering approach. But BMW still failed at it. Maybe BMW will listen to its fans and update it for the next model year. The looks of the M2 has actually grown on me, but I hate that god-awful interior and gimmickry. Leave that crap to the non-M models. M models should be all business.
Don't even think about the M2 bro. Ct4 Blackwing has better handling, steering feel, better shifter, def a lot more fun to drive.
@@John.Christopher Yea, reviews of the M2 have cemented my decision to just stick with the Blackwing.
@@AM-uk7jv hopefully I can grab one when I have the cash before it goes out of production 😆 How long is the wait for you allocation?
@@John.Christopher I put in a deposit on December 31st, 2022 and still waiting. But I am first on the list for the next allocation, whenever that may be. Hopefully soon.
@@AM-uk7jv wonderful. Hope you thoroughly enjoy it
Have you driven the manual? It got destroyed by Throttle House yesterday
I'm in the market for something in this price range but I could not walk out to this thing everyday no matter how lovely it is. Perhaps I'll just stick with my Raptor until I can get a 718 Spyder.
Best video by thesmokingtire. Great Job zack and matt.
Great video. Such a shame as I adore my F87. Looks like I'll be hanging onto mine for a very, very long time.
My 2024 M2 g87 is parked in my garage and I look at it once in the morning and once at night before I go to bed.
Really liking the new format and production quality guys!
Finally found a car review in TH-cam use the word ugly in the title for describing new M2 and didn’t afraid BMW will blacklist you. Thanks a lot.
Front end reminds me of my Hoover upright vacuum and 3800lbs. It may be an M2 in name but certainly not in spirit.
I like the video, well done. I’m having a hard time imagining an E92 M3 being able to fit within the footprint of this thing. Man the 2 series is huge.
Great video, BWM M cars always had some of the best analogue dials that gave you everything you needed, I hate all this digital dash stuff, and it really doesnt age well. Do we really need cars this big and heavy!!
The intro reminded me of the old TUNED videos on THE DRIVE channel!
Love the extra production looks great guys!
Great review gents. Production quality is fantastic! I’m one of the few that loves the lines of the M2. I will wait to see one in person before making any sudden moves but feeling the itch to upgrade from my MK7.5 Golf R.
I love this new format!!! I get it's a lot more work to edit but it's really worth it!!
These new vids are excellent you guys!!!
Liked the old style, just driving and talking about the car, it felt more organic and it's what diversified your channel from others. Also gave a better feel for the driving experience. Polished and production and dialogue just for entertainment sake I guess is the way things are going.
I’ll stick to my e92 thanks
Great writing and descriptions. The format and editing is awesome!
I’m the only person on earth that’s in love with the new m2 lol wish you guys got to review the 6MT version
Yea you probably are
I love everything about the visual of this car except the oddly squared-off grilles. Otherwise, this car is a hit, AND WHAT A REAR.
You ever drive the old one?
@@Supernova09949 eBay bolt on body kit
@@HaloDude557 I didn’t say my taste was good
Great writing and review. I personally don't hate the styling. While the previous M2 was prettier in a traditional sense, I think the new M2 looks really aggressive, especially from the side profile with the accentuated fender flares. The fact that it is now wider and more stable also makes it more approachable for someone looking to step up from a lower power RWD car.
I will say the color options are a bit disappointing though. Was hoping for some more interesting combos like the Isle of Man green you can get on the M3
As an m2 comp owner i love that it has manual handbrake and an analogue dash. It's a keeper for me.
I do love the new m2 and contrary to other overwhelming opinions i think it looks pretty good. Amazing car.
Keep that M2 Comp longe term. They will never make them like that again.
Loving this format guys, I hope you'll find it worth it to continue doing them like this. It's pretty clear the amount of effort and thought that went into it. Great content like always.
Not nearly as ugly as people are making it out to be. We likely haven’t seen it in person yet, how can we say?
We've seen it in person! It's definitely worse than in photos.
@@TheSmokingTireyes, but I’m sure the majority of folks hating on the design haven’t actually seen one in person. Hard to accurately assess until then imo
I have to agree. I was hating it in photos and then I test drove a black one and thought it looked pretty good. Maybe the fact it was black hid all the awkwardness.
You guys did ton of work for this video and it shows, great job and I hope your busy schedules allows you to do more of these in the future!
I personally like how it looks. Kudos to the last videos. The two car format with ev and hybrid was better than the first video done like that. This last one has a better rhythm going back to back in between you two.
Hilarious video title. Zack that Ibiza joke had me rolling. I think yall either got really lucky having the auto or chose correctly. Several other reviewers that had manuals seemed to like that it came with a manual but seemed less than impressed with it after a drive. The guys over at throttle house even suggested that if you buy one, buy the auto, cause it's that much better. In their opinion. The kinda people that own a previous M2 in stick and are waiting for a lotus with a stick suggested the auto. That signals it makes a huge difference. If the opportunity arises you all should get a stick version and see if it's still out runs it's face with two less gears that have been stretched to cover the same distance. Killer work guys!
to me, the last gen M2 looked like something a woman would drive. small and rounded, nothing particularly interesting about it, dull, not masculine in the least. this one looks like a bruiser from every angle, super aggressive, with a lot of neat angular shapes, just way more visually interesting looking to my eye. funny how polarizing the damn thing is, i dont get it, at all.
You can reposition all the apps on the screen.
LMAO, love the design hate, carwow was the only one who was afraid to tell the truth, according to throttle house, they had warnings from bmw not to criticize design, so here you have it, SmokingTire not giving a damn and staying genuine
They didn't invite us to the launch so we never received that bit of, uh, guidance.
Some people do like the design, (I for one love it) it isn't always a matter of "telling the truth", subjective matters are just that, subjective.
@@StrollingOnMoon nobody cares
@@mala6238 Exactly, I love all the ppl saying it looks great or love the looks.
Yea, show me how much you like it, are you going to buy it? Hell nah. These are the same people crying about wagons but never buy em. LOL
@@StrollingOnMoon Some people sing off key and can't hear why, they actually think they are singing on key. It is the same people who like bad designs and you can't fix it by teaching. It is brain software.
Loving the new old style of vids!
I love the long hood short deck profile ...and the pronounced squarish wheel fenders hearkens back to the original M3. Overall I really like the blend of classic yet quirky 2 door coupe styling ...I'd say it's interesting rather than weird or ugly which I prefer vs
anodyne or generic.
Thing is completely heinous, you must be joking. Remember what the previous gen looked like?
I agree. I honestly quite like the look of this M2. Not necessarily more than the last gen. Just in a different way. There are things I would take from both cars and meld together to make my perfect M2
Hey Marley I think you overdosed on copium
Yooo long time viewer since garage 419. I love the return to form-ish style. Remember that vid years ago when you took that Volvo polestar wagon on a road trip? Wouldn’t hate those style vids either. Well done lads! Come one take my 240 if you’re ever in New Hampshire
Good points about styling. A lot of styles deemed ugly initially are now classics. I kind of like the more angular look of the m2. Reminds me of 80s/90s.
This M2 will never be a "classic" design. Ugly doesn't change.
Funny I was thinking the same; exterior design reminds me of '80s styling and not in a bad way
@@spaceoner1 I'd reject the new M2 on two counts: Terrible exterior styling and too much weight. Nice motor though.
Unless BMW has changed it radically since the last generation M2, I don’t know why anyone would voluntarily choose the Sport+ throttle mapping. It doesn’t give you any extra power, it just means you get 2/3 of the output in the first 1/4 of pedal travel. Yeah, it makes it feel faster taking off, but trying to balance the car mid-corner becomes an exercise in frustration.
I think the fact that in the 1st gen, turning off all the stability nannies automagically the throttle in Sport, not Sport+, tells you all you need to know about what the engineers and test drivers thought was the best one for driving fast.
Solidifies M2 CS as the car to have.
I enjoyed the new camera work, editing style and the way the review was quickly sliced up. It was dynamic n' looked great (though some of the shots on the fisheye lens, idk about them - think I'd almost always prefer a less distorted, wide angle from a greater distance). But overall, this was fantastic.
My real regret with this episode, though - the camera placement most certainly forced Matt/ Zach to be separated while doing their review, which is a pity. One of the best things about TST, are the interactions between you guys! Is it possible to find a happy medium, in future? Keeping the great camera work, the quick editing style - but have both Matt & Zach in the car, together! For those cool interactions n' laughs that make TST different from all the other review channels
Its DISGUSTING!! I just dont understand bmw styling?!?! They use to be so nice and clean, but lately!! Its like they are trying to prove bmw fanbois will buy ANYTHING!!!!
Thankfully, it looks better than the M4 😬
@@John.Christopher Like how hard would that be to do?!?! LOL!!
I don’t know why bmw insists on these weird designs while they could be making really beautiful cars
Personally I love the design, but to each their own. Curious to see the driving impressions.
I feel like a lot of the awkwardness could have been avoided if they had only kept some of the double circle influence in the headlights even if they needed to square of some edges to match the more squared look in total. The taillights to me don’t match the shape either. Personally I don’t mind the shape that much. However I do not understand why cars have to continue growing within their own classes. Why not save the dimensions and weight targets. The things that make the biggest difference in how a car feels. The last M2 with its double circle headlights and typical double kidney grill (not oversized) and the beautifully styled but not loud taillights. All of these things complimented the shape. Now the lights and arches seem like a bit of an afterthought to me. The last M2 CS with this engine but in the Factory M3/M4 tune would have made the perfect BMW experience. At least for what I feel most enthusiasts are looking for.
I bought a '22 230 last year mainly because of this and another YT channels reviews. I love the styling of the 230/240 and the M2 is growing on me. Those spy pics that came out a few months ago had me gagging but seeing it now, I don't think it's ugly at all.
One change that I think would help slightly though is a bezel around the kidneys. Someone on the TH vid said it looked like a Lego car.
man you are just coping with your purchase. everyone knows its a visual abomination. I have no doubt its a good car, but my god it looks abysmal.
The car just looks absolutely stunning. This is the only BMW car of which I really like the style. People were just used to the previous styles. This style removes some curves I really dislike of most BMWs. I love it.
If the car weighed 800lbs less it would make sense. But it’s just so hefty. It’s an M4
Excellent review. Having owned a 2024 M2 manual for a few months now I can concur with just about everything you have said. It is an amazing car and compares well against any sports car at any price point. Engineering excellence!! A total bargain when price is considered.
4:59 to skip the ad
I think this car just looks different, that's all. The M3 and M4 took so much hate for their front end and now people are used to it and live they look pretty good. I saw a grey M240i at my Dealership and fell in love with it straight away. Also the rear lights don't look half as bad in person. I would go for a black M2. Where else do you find a straight six with that performance and the superb build quality? The predecessor has an outdated interior and infotainment system. The DCT isn't a smooth as the ZF 8 Speed especially around town and lower speeds. So, I kinda really like the M2.
How much better is this than the already very fast (new) M240i though, when its essentially the same car with a bit more power? Also, my favorite thing about my own M2 was the rapid-fire DCT transmission. It felt race-car quick and was dramatic and great fun to use. I cant imagine the ZF8 offering anywhere near the same blazing fast downshifts.
This style video is great guys, the dynamic between Matt and Zach makes this video excellent.
The background music at the 2:40 and 6:40 marks are absolutely excellent
I was unaware of the G87 M2’s existence until I saw one recently at my local dealer. I want to emphasize that I had never seen one in person, in a photo or video and was therefore totally unaware of the substantial dislike of its styling. I was looking at a base model 2 series coupe and was really impressed with interior design and space for someone like me who is 6’ 3” tall but I said the the salesman that I felt the exterior seemed a little bland for me. He pointed me towards an M2 sitting in the delivery bay awaiting collection. OMG - It was absolutely stunning IMO. I looked at it close up, stood back, walked around it and loved everything about it. My point being that I can’t help but feel that BMW enthusiasts generally loved the original M2 and were shocked when the new one didn’t look anything like what they expected a BMW should be and therefore hated it. I honestly believe the G87 will stand the test of time and will become one of BMW’s all time greats.
Not only does the styling turn off a lot of people on the outside, but I'm also not a fan of a giant rectangle screen that looks glued to the dash. Maybe you forget about it once you get used to it, but looking at it from the side, it looks lazy. Almost like they didn't know what to do with the dash or instrument panel, so they did nothing, and just stuck a huge screen up there.
Love this new format! Excellent writing. Great work, fellas!
Loving this type of format way better!!
I love the looks, and comments from other review sites are overwhelmingly positive in that regard.
The writing and directing of this is so fucking great. That cut in the beginning where you say "It looks....(cut) weird) was amazing
Reminds me of the a tagline for A10 Warthogs…”Ugly but well hung”.
I love these higher quality produced videos. Big throwback to the days of /Tuned
Love the editing style of the video, nice change from the usual reviews.
I don't understand how anyone prefers the old M2's soft and rounded look to the new aggressive, boxy look... I much prefer the G87 to the F87.
Throttle House says the manual version is terrible vs the auto. I think that is interesting. what does that say about the focus on enthusiasts?
Just rented one of these on Turo, same color, 6spd manual trans, and man does it cook!
Power everywhere, my wife loved the interior styling. Got to drive some of the same hills and roads matt drives. Really a great car, and everywhere I went dudes were breaking their necks and giving me thumbs up. Not a fan of the looks but i think i could get over it.