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When the limited-edition, hardcore BMW M4 CS launched two years ago, there was a glaring omission. Despite its focus on enthusiast buyers, it wasn't available with a manual. Now, the M2 CS is here to right those wrongs.

It's a stiffer, more aggressive version of the M2 Competition, itself more rowdy than the original M2. And unlike the somewhat disappointing M4 CS, it lets you shift your own gears. If you're fine with a dual-clutch transmission but prefer the M2's tidier dimensions to its bigger brother, you get an M2 CS with a 7-speed DCT.

Compared to the M2 Competition—which, we should note, is the current base model M2—the M2 CS offers more power, lightweight components, and the new-for-the-M2 Adaptive M suspension setup.

The engine is still the S55 motor, which the M2 CS shares with the M2 Competition, M3, and M4. In this application it makes 444 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. That's up 39 hp from the M2 Competition, which makes 405 hp. The torque figure is unchanged.

The hood, roof, and aero bits are also now made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). BMW says the reworked bits improve aerodynamics and cooling in addition to saving weight, though the company didn't give a curb weight for the M2 CS.