Officially introduced in 2016, the F87 generation BMW M2 quickly established itself as the truest driver's car in the Munich manufacturer's modern lineup. By combining the compact proportions of the 2 Series with wide fender flares and aluminum chassis components borrowed from the larger M3 and M4, BMW engineers created a remarkably sharp dynamic platform. Initial models relied on a specially tuned 3.0-liter N55 inline-six engine equipped with a single twin-scroll turbocharger, generating 365 horsepower and driving the rear wheels through an Active M Differential.

The mid-cycle update saw the arrival of the formidable M2 Competition and the ultra-exclusive M2 CS, both transitioning to the motorsport-derived S55 twin-turbo inline-six engine pushing output to 405 and 444 horsepower respectively. Offering both a traditional six-speed manual gearbox and a fast-shifting seven-speed M dual-clutch transmission, the F87 captured universal acclaim, serving as the benchmark compact luxury sports coupe of its generation.