The M2, BMW’s entry-level M car, is more driver-oriented than other Ms given its compact dimensions, emphasis on handling, and available stick shift. For 2020, things get more interesting with the addition of the new M2 CS, which debuted at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show. Lighter weight, more power, and handling improvements add up to an even more dynamic M2 that will be a clear step up from the current top dog in the lineup, the M2 Competition. Only a few hundred M2 CSs will sell in the U.S. market.

Under the hood of the new M2 CS is the familiar 3.0-liter S55 turbocharged straight-six, but it gets 39 more horsepower than the M2 Competition for a total of 444 hp. Torque remains the same at 406 pound-feet, and buyers can choose between a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic or a 6-speed manual. The sprint to 60 mph should take 4 seconds flat with the manual or 3.8 seconds with the automatic, and top speed is 174 mph. Fuel-economy figures for the CS aren’t available, but the standard M2 does a respectable 20 mpg city, 27 highway, and 23 combined with the automatic.

BMW’s Adaptive M Suspension hasn’t been available on previous M2s, but it comes standard on the CS, as does the Active M Differential. Carbon-ceramic brakes and matte gold wheels are other options. BMW hasn’t announced the total weight savings of the CS over the standard car, but given that the company uses carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the roof, hood front splitter, rear diffuser and spoiler, and mirrors on the CS, those savings should add up to quite a bit. BMW also uses carbon fiber for the transmission tunnel in the CS to save a few pounds. Being the smallest of the M cars, the M2 is also the most tossable and, depending on the setting, possibly the most fun to drive. The new version is sure to be even better.

M2s are limited for space on the inside, especially for passengers in the back seat, but the interior is well appointed and the 13.8 cubic feet of storage space is impressive for a car this size. The standard M2 comes standard with heated leather seats, navigation, a Harman and Kardon stereo, satellite radio compatibility, and ambient interior lighting. A heated steering wheel and wireless device charging are among the optional extras.

An available option package also bundles forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. While the M2 hasn’t been crash-tested, the standard 2 Series has received the highest available Top Safety Pick Plus status from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The M2 looks great, drives very well, will outrun most other cars on the road, and isn’t outrageously expensive. It normally competes with the likes of the Porsche 718 Cayman range, the Audi TT RS, and the new Toyota Supra.