BMW adds M Performance exhaust option to M2

BMW’S two-door hi-po hero just got louder, with the car-maker announcing a dealer-fitted M Performance Exhaust with Valve Silencer System to new and existing M2 owners.

The optional exhaust, which is on offer from $4081.82 before GST and fitment charges, will take about two hours to install and replaces the standard system with a stainless steel unit featuring valve control to allow drivers to switch between two modes – ‘sport’ and ‘track’ – from the cockpit.

According to BMW, “the default sport mode provides additional aural entertainment over the standard system” whereas “switching to track mode brings a new level of volume and a guttural six-cylinder soundtrack synonymous with BMW Motorsport pedigree”.

In fact, the track setting makes the exhaust so loud, the M2 becomes illegal to drive on public roads, which has prompted BMW to advise that the setting should only be used in racetrack situations.

The new exhaust system can also be fitted with optional titanium or carbon-fibre tips for $1450.04 and $2015.88 respectively, making the carbon-fibre option over $500 per exhaust tip.

The titanium tips are 80mm in diameter, whereas the carbon-fibre option are 93mm and both feature M engraving.

While freer flowing exhaust systems typically increase power outputs, it is unknown if the M Performance exhaust will liberate any extra kilowatts from the M2’s 3.0-litre turbocharged straight six motor.

In standard form, the engine develops 272kW of peak power and 465Nm of maximum torque, which is fed through the rear wheels via either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Prices for BMW’s baby M model start at $89,615 before on-roads for the manual-only Pure and top out at $98,615 for the auto-equipped version which also adds extra features including an alarm, adaptive headlights, keyless entry and start, and heated front seats.