Geneva show: BMW pumps M2 Coupe

BMW has introduced a range of exclusive M Performance customisation options for its potent M2 Coupe, allowing owners to sharpen the looks, performance and sound of their baby M-powered two-door.

In Europe, the range of accessories will be offered individually rather than a complete vehicle package, allowing M2 customers to pick and mix for a bespoke look, or tick every box for the complete set.

Exactly which items will be offered for the Australian market is yet to be confirmed but BMW Group Australia product communications manager Simon Chiarelli told GoAuto the company was hoping to offer some, if not all, M Performance options when the M2 launches locally mid-2016.

“It is our intention that we will make these parts available for the Australian market,” he said. “We haven't finalised what the catalogue will look like, but there is every intention for our accessories department to have these parts available for the vehicle upon its launch in April.”

A range of aesthetic additions headline the M2 trick parts options with carbon-fibre front splitter, side sills, door mirror caps, rear diffuser and subtle boot lip spoiler. BMW says the parts are not just for show and enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamics, unlike the gloss black grille and M-colour body decals which are purely aesthetic and evoke a feel of the iconic 1960s 2002 Turbo.

A special exhaust system adds beefy 80mm quad tailpipes with carbon-fibre shrouds and embossed M symbols. The optional system gives the driver two Bluetooth-selectable modes with a Sport setting for public road motoring or a Track mode for a more shouty and antisocial soundtrack.

While other brands offer optional sports suspension systems, BMW is offering a fully adjustable M Performance coil spring pack with 16 rebound and 12 compression settings to hone the perfect chassis response on different circuits.

No option is offered to upgrade the M2's large four-piston callipers but BMW will fit a special set of high temperature resistant pads to withstand more punishment on high-speed tracks.

On the inside, fettled M2 Coupes have the option of the carbon-fibre trim kit which adds the high-tech and lightweight material to the gear selector, centre console, handbrake, door handles and dashboard.

An M Performance steering wheel has yet more carbon-fibre trim, part-Alcantara covering, blue leather steering angle indicator, and is padded with a harder foam filling for better grip in gloved hands.

For an added track-star feature, BMW will supply a race display for the upgraded steering wheel, which displays information such as acceleration, lap times and a shift light via a window in the wheel rim.

M Performance LED-illuminated sill trims, branded floor mats and stainless steel pedal covers complete the list of performance parts.

BMW is remaining tight-lipped on the interest it has received regarding the all-new model, but it is understood the company is experiencing a significant number of orders ahead of its arrival date.