With respect to car manufacturers setting up their cars to do fast lap times around the Green Hell, a rather famous bloke named James May once said, “The Nürburgring ruins cars.” His statement is true to an extent if we’re talking about a family hatchback or a big, burly SUV. However, if the car in question is a BMW M, it’s a different story. If it is an M CS model, it’s even better. Even Mr. Slowly would agree. This time, it is the new BMW M2 CS that’s in the headlines for clocking a fastest lap at theNürburgring.
The Compact King Of The ‘Ring
On April 11th, 2025, the Nürburgring Nordschleife saw a compact car take a massive leap forward. The new BMW M2 CS clocked a blistering 7:25.5 lap time, officially making it the fastest compact car to ever lap the Green Hell. Behind the wheel was BMW M development ace Jörg Weidinger, who is no stranger to shattering records at this daunting 20.832km circuit.
This new lap time eclipses the previous compact class record by eight full seconds, which in Nürburgring terms is an eternity. For context, Weidinger himself had previously set a benchmark of 7:38.7 in the older BMW M2 back in April 2023. Two years and 13 seconds quicker? That’s quite impressive.
CS Means Business
This is the M2 CS, the crown jewel of the compact M lineup. BMW’s M division has pulled out every trick in the performance playbook to turn an already capable platform into a track-devouring weapon.
Under the bonnet is the tried and tested 3.0-litre inline-six with M TwinPower Turbo tech, producing 530hp and 650Nm. It drives the rear wheels via an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which ensures lightning-fast gear changes.
Coupled with model-specific engine mounts, adaptive M suspension, M compound brakes, and a serious diet plan involving carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), the M2 CS weighs 30 kilograms less than the standard M2. That’s an impressive weight loss and certainly makes the difference felt, especially in a compact sedan like the M2.
BMW M At The Nürburgring
The Nürburgring is often dubbed the “Green Hell” for good reason: over 70 corners, dramatic elevation changes, and unforgiving tarmac. It’s where good cars get humbled and great cars are born. The new M2 CS dominated this racetrack.
BMW’s M division has, for a long time, used the Nürburgring as its proving ground. From concept to production, every M car is honed here, tested, tortured, and tuned to perfection. And the M2 CS carries that legacy forward proudly. Not just as another badge-wearing M car, but as one that belongs in the same league as the M4 CSL, M3 CS, and M4 CS — all Nürburgring veterans in their own right.
A Limited Run For The Lucky Few
Built in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, this limited-edition coupe will hit the road later this year. Pricing is expected to start at €115,000 in Germany. Included as standard are forged M light-alloy wheels and tons of CFRP. While exact production numbers are yet to be announced, reports reveal that fewer than 2,000 units will be produced.
Franciscus van Meel, BMW M’s Managing Director, said, “The BMW M2 CS has achieved a significant milestone with its lap time of 7:25.5 minutes on the Nordschleife, showcasing the potential for combining performance, technology, and exceptional driving dynamics into a single vehicle.”
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