This is will be the last update before the 2017 BMW M2’s long-term verdict. In the spirit of report card season, here’s a list of notes I’ve been keeping, some of which might not make it into the verdict.
NEEDS IMPROVEMENT:
EXCELLENT
- “Shifter(s)” Many offer paddles and a manual mode on the shift lever. Only a few get their orientation/function right.
- “Steering wheel” I love the contour of the wheel, the obvious thumb rests, the intuitive operation of all the buttons, and two barrel wheels (especially to change radio stations). And of course I love the feel of the steering itself, which was only improved with a new set of Michelin PS4S tires.
- “Bendy lights” That’s what my daughter calls them. The adaptive automatic high-beam LED headlamps (also part of the Executive pack) do an excellent job pointing through corners in my curvy, non-streetlamp neighborhood.
- “Heated seats” Because who doesn’t like these on a chilly morning? They heat quickly, and the three levels are distinct.
- “8 preset buttons” BMW’s allowance to program eight buttons with various functions is sublime, especially due to the sometimes-complexity of iDrive. For instance, I’ve programmed audio tone adjustment, check-oil level, and tire-pressure display with three of them.