IT’S one of the most famous performance badges in the world of performance motoring, but there’s a school of thought from some punters that BMW’s M division has lost its way in recent years.

From the brutal V8-powered E39 M5 to the silken pace and impeccable balance of the straight-six E46 M3, BMW’s tuners have been responsible for some amazing machines over the decades.

Lately, though, more powerful but less involving cars such as the X5 M SUV and the straight six turbocharged M3 and M4 twins that lack a sense of connection and involvement have caused angst in the M world.

Thankfully, the new M2 revives the spirit of the greatest M cars in the best way possible.