A Tribute Reborn For Purists
BMW has just unveiled something truly special for its American enthusiasts — a manual-only M2 Turbo Design Edition, a hand-painted tribute to one of its most legendary models: the 1973 BMW 2002 Turbo.
This exclusive variant isn’t about chasing lap times or adding horsepower. Instead, it’s a celebration of BMW’s motorsport roots, manual gearboxes, and that unmistakable connection between driver and machine — something that’s becoming increasingly rare in modern performance cars.
Exclusively For The U.S. Market
BMW has confirmed that the M2 Turbo Design Edition will be exclusive to the United States, reinforcing how seriously the Bavarian brand takes its American fanbase — particularly those who still value three pedals.
It’s not just another special paint job; it’s a factory-built collector’s car, meticulously hand-painted at BMW’s plant and produced in very limited numbers (though the brand hasn’t revealed how few).
Each example will serve as a rolling homage to the 1973 2002 Turbo, BMW’s first-ever turbocharged production car and a cult icon that paved the way for the M division’s success story.
Design: A Hand-Painted Masterpiece
At first glance, the Turbo Design Edition looks like an M2 that’s just stepped out of the 1970s — but with a sharper edge. The base paint is Alpine White, overlaid with hand-painted BMW M tri-color stripes that run along the bonnet (hood), carbon roof, and boot (trunk) lid.
The detailing is not vinyl, not stickers — these are hand-applied paint accents, an art form in itself that adds hours of craftsmanship to every unit.
Retro Touches, Modern Precision
- M stripes wrap around the bonnet and tail section, just as they did on the 2002 Turbo.
- The “Turbo” script is reversed — a direct nod to the original car, which famously displayed it backward on the front spoiler so that drivers ahead could read it in their mirrors.
- The power dome on the bonnet is painted black for contrast, further accentuating the car’s muscular stance.
- At the rear, a carbon fiber M Performance spoiler adds aerodynamic flair along with a classic “Turbo” badge placement.
Even the dual-spoke alloy wheels are part of the tribute. Finished in black as standard (with gold as an optional upgrade), they perfectly match the nostalgic aesthetic without looking forced or gimmicky.
Interior: M Performance With Heritage Cues
Step inside, and the Turbo Design Edition blends modern M performance luxury with retro-inspired details.
- Carbon fiber inlays run across the dash and center console.
- The door sills and dashboard feature Turbo Design Edition badging, ensuring exclusivity.
- The car comes equipped with M bucket seats, a head-up display, and contrast stitching throughout the cabin.
- The manual shifter — a six-speed unit — is finished with a short throw and tactile engagement that’s pure BMW.
Even though it’s packed with tech, the cabin doesn’t overwhelm. The focus remains on the driving experience — raw, mechanical, and connected.
Performance: Classic Formula, Modern Power
Under the hood lies the familiar yet formidable 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six (S58 engine) found in the standard M2.
BMW hasn’t added extra horsepower for this edition, but the 467 hp (473 PS) and 406 lb-ft of torque it already produces are more than enough to make this coupe thrilling in every gear.
Performance Specs
| Specification | Value |
| Engine | 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-Six |
| Power | 467 hp |
| Torque | 406 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 0–60 mph | 4.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (177 mph with M Driver’s Package) |
The manual-only configuration will no doubt please purists. In a world where automatic and dual-clutch gearboxes dominate, BMW’s decision to restrict this edition to a 6-speed manual feels like a gift to enthusiasts who still appreciate the art of shifting gears.
Handling: Rear-Wheel Joy, No Gimmicks
The M2 Turbo Design Edition carries over the rear-wheel-drive architecture, maintaining the perfect 50:50 balance that BMW’s M cars are known for.
The steering, suspension, and chassis setup are identical to the standard M2, which means you get:
- Adaptive M suspension
- Active M differential
- High-performance brakes (with optional red or blue calipers)
- Sport-tuned traction control
There are no gimmicks — no AWD system or hybrid power. It’s just you, a manual gearbox, and 467 horsepower waiting to be unleashed through the rear wheels.
A True Driver’s Car In The Age Of Automation
What makes this edition so significant is not its power, but its philosophy. In an era where manufacturers are chasing EV acceleration figures and self-driving features, BMW has gone in the opposite direction — back to basics.
By pairing a manual transmission with a hand-painted heritage livery, BMW has effectively created a bridge between the 1973 2002 Turbo and the modern M2, proving that analog joy still has a place in the digital age.
Pricing & Availability
BMW has priced the M2 Turbo Design Edition at $82,900, plus a $1,175 destination and handling fee.
That’s roughly $8,600 more than the standard M2, which starts at $74,300 in the U.S. Considering the craftsmanship involved — from hand-painting to limited production — the price premium seems justified.
While BMW hasn’t specified production numbers, insiders suggest it will be extremely limited, likely under 200 units. Given the brand’s strong M following in the States, expect all units to be spoken for almost immediately.
Comparison: Standard M2 vs Turbo Design Edition
| Feature | Standard M2 | M2 Turbo Design Edition |
| Engine | 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-Six | Same |
| Power | 467 hp | 467 hp |
| Transmission | 6MT / 8AT | 6MT Only |
| Paint | Standard Factory Colors | Hand-Painted Turbo Livery |
| Interior | Regular M2 Layout | Turbo Branding, Carbon Accents |
| Price | $74,300 | $82,900 |
| Market | Global | U.S.-Only |
The takeaway? The Turbo Design Edition isn’t about performance upgrades — it’s about soul. It’s about BMW giving enthusiasts something tangible to celebrate: paint, pattern, and pure passion.
A Nod To The 2002 Turbo Legacy
When the BMW 2002 Turbo debuted in 1973, it was revolutionary — BMW’s first production turbocharged car and one of the earliest to feature forced induction in Europe.
It produced just 168 horsepower, but its light weight and responsive handling made it an instant classic. The reversed “Turbo” lettering on the front spoiler became an icon of confidence and cheekiness.
This M2 tribute carries that same spirit — fast enough to thrill, stylish enough to remember, and rare enough to be collectible.
