2019 BMW M2 Competition: A Carimports.co.ke Review
The Big Picture
The 2019 BMW M2 Competition (F87) is widely considered the best driver's car BMW has made in the 21st century. Origin: Germany (Leipzig). First Generation: Launched in 2015 (Standard M2). Current Generation: 2nd Generation (G87, launched 2023). The 2019 Competition model is special because BMW discontinued the standard N55 engine and shoehorned the proper S55 Twin-Turbo engine from the M4 into this tiny chassis. It is angry, loud, and pure.
Quick Specs
Engine Options & Model Codes
Only one engine, but two gearboxes:
- 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 (S55): 405 HP / 550 Nm. STANDARD This is a detuned M4 engine. It revs to 7,600 rpm. Available with a 6-speed Manual (for purists) or 7-speed M-DCT (Dual Clutch) for speed. The DCT is brutally fast.
Interior & Practicality
- M Seats: The Competition model gained proper M-Sport bucket seats with illuminated M2 badges. They hold you tight in corners but are firm for long trips.
- Usable Coupe: Unlike a Supra or Cayman, the M2 has usable back seats (for short people) and a decent 390-litre boot. You can actually use it as a daily driver.
Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs
- Consumption: 8–10 km/l. Better than a V8, but the small 52-litre tank means range is limited (approx 400km).
- Service: The S55 is a complex engine. It requires specific synthetic oil and has a crank hub issue (rare but catastrophic) that enthusiasts often upgrade. Maintenance is expensive.
- Brakes: The Competition has massive 6-piston front brakes. Replacement pads and rotors are costly.
Suitability for Kenyan Roads
Stiff & Low: 120mm clearance. The suspension is fixed (no adaptive dampers) and tuned for the Nürburgring. It is very stiff on Nairobi roads. You will feel every reflector and pothole. It is a weekend toy for smooth tarmac, not a daily commuter for Langata Road.
Safety & Reliability
Based on the 2 Series which scored 5 Stars. It is safe, but the high power output combined with Rear Wheel Drive requires respect, especially in the rain. Traction control is excellent but can be turned off fully.
Prices for 2019 BMW M2 for Sale in Kenya
The following prices represent the cost of buying a 2019 BMW M2 Competition in Kenya. These prices reflect showroom asking prices in major towns including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
| Trim Level | Import Cost (Approx) | Showroom Price | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| M2 Competition (DCT) | Ksh 7.5M | Ksh 8.8M | Ksh 1.3M |
| M2 Competition (Manual) | Ksh 8.0M | Ksh 9.5M | Ksh 1.5M |
The Ci Verdict
Who is this for? The purist driver who believes the M3/M4 have become too big and numb. Who is it NOT for? Those who care about ride comfort or have a sensitive back.
