My test car is the quickest M2 you can order. This means it is equipped with the $3,900 dual-clutch transmission on offer from BMW. While I’d prefer the six-speed manual in such a traditional-style sporting Bimmer, it sure is hard to fault the DCT. Shifts are ridiculously fast and thanks to the steering wheel mounted paddles, the M2 can very much be driven like a manual (roll-backs on a grade and all!).

BMW claims the DCT model will hit 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds whereas the manual will take 4.5. If 2/10 of a second are that important to you and spending nearly four grand for the transmission doesn’t cause tightness in the chest, then go for it – it’s about as good as they come, but I believe those specifying the stick shift are going to be getting the better experience in this car.

The M2 is rated at a combined highway/city fuel consumption average of 11.1 L/100 km with the stick and 10.4 with the DCT. I saw an average of 11.5, but confess to driving in a less-than-efficient manner everywhere I went. The down side to that is having to fill and re-fill the tiny 52 L fuel tank with alarming regularity.

I challenge any true driving enthusiasts to drive this car more conservatively, though. Listening to that engine sing, snapping off lightning-quick shifts, hammering on the eye-popping 15-inch (front) brakes and horsing the little M into corners is an addiction for which very few will seek a cure.

The M2 will keep drivers grinning, corner after corner, passing move after passing move, and still do a fine job of picking up the kid from school and the groceries from the market. It is well-built and masterfully engineered without being over-refined and soulless. It’s a track weapon that works just fine as an everyday car.

Warranty:
4 years/80,000 km; 4 years/80,000 km powertrain; 12 years/unlimited distance corrosion perforation; 4 years/unlimited distance roadside assistance

Competitors:
Audi TTS
Lexus RC F
Mercedes-AMG CLA 45
Porsche Cayman

BMW has given the Bimmerphiles – and the media – the car they’ve demanded, and they’ve done it brilliantly.

Finally.

Pricing: 2016 BMW M2
Base Price: $61,000
Options: Long Beach Blue Metallic Paint, $895; M Double Clutch Transmission, $3,900
Destination: $2,145
A/C Tax: $100
Price as Tested: $68,040

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