2023 BMW M2 power output revealed early

The 2023 BMW M2 will be the most powerful "baby" BMW M car ever built when it is revealed next month, a leaked internal document suggests.

A confidential BMW bulletin posted on the BimmerPost forum indicates the new M2's 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine (shared with the larger M3 and M4) will produce 338kW in standard form.

This represents a 7kW increase compared to the most potent version of the outgoing M2 (the 331kW/550Nm CS), but 15kW less than the 'base' variants of the M3 and M4.

A torque output from the M2 is not quoted, though given the base M3/M4 and previous M2 CS both developed 550Nm, that figure seems likely for the new "baby" BMW M car.

Power will be sent to the rear wheels through a choice of six-speed manual or eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmissions, BMW has already confirmed.

After production of the standard BMW M2 begins this December, rumours suggest a higher-performance Competition model is in the works, while UK magazine Autocar claims a 350kW M2 CS or CSL is also planned. Neither of these reports have been confirmed.

As previously reported by Drive, the new M2 will be the last newly-launched BMW M car – excluding facelifts or model-year updates – without electrification. Future models are expected to adopt mild-hybrid technology, plug-in hybrid assistance, or be fully electric.

Under the skin, highlights include 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels, large performance brakes from the M4, available Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 track tyres, and an optional carbon-fibre roof.

The exterior is in line for a visual upgrade – with wider wheel arches, new front and rear bumpers, and quad exhaust outlets – while inside the M2 will offer the twin-screen iDrive 8 dashboard from BMW's latest cars, and a choice of standard M sports seats or lightweight M Carbon bucket seats.

The 2023 BMW M2 will be revealed sometime next month, with reports pointing to a debut on the 12th of October. Stay tuned to Drive for more news as the unveiling approaches.