Whether it’s the original F87, the newer G87 M2, the turbocharged 2-Series, or even the utility of an F44, The BMW 2-Series and M2 have so many options for customization.
Both exterior and interior modifications can be made to enhance the visuals and boost the overall performance of these cars.
In this guide, we’ll highlight some of these upgrades that will help make your car truly unique.
Exterior Mods for the BMW 2-Series/M2
The 2-Series (especially the M2) is already a beast of a car visually. But choosing some simple exterior additions can really change the presence of your car. Here are some of our favorites.
Front Grilles
Your M2’s front grille is its face. By replacing the stock one, you instantly give your cars front end a new look. There’s options for high-gloss black grilles for a more aggressive appearance, or aftermarket mesh designs that completely reshape the character of the front end.
It’s a great mod as it instantly changes the identity of your car by making it feel more aggressive and personalized, and it’s a quick and easy way to get that visual impact you’re chasing.
Mirror Caps
Mirror caps are a little detail that has a big impact. Upgrading to a set of carbon fiber mirror covers adds a touch more class and a motorsport spirit to your car. The lightweight feeling of carbon fiber makes it consistent with the M2's focus on performance.
Why it's a great mod:
- High-end look in your car: Carbon fiber adds a luxurious and durable exterior to your car.
- OEM+ fit: Made to fit over your OEM caps perfectly with no gaps - these are a tight, smooth fitting cap.
Trunk Spoilers
A trunk spoiler is the perfect addition to the 2-Series coupe look. Beyond the looks it also adds some downforce at high speeds. Another simple and easy addition to your car, that will completely change its look.
Why it's a great mod:
- Improved stance: Greatly enhances the rear end appearance of your vehicle; It makes the car look lower and wider.
- Aerodynamic: At high speed, it increases rear down force.
- Affordable & easy: It’s one of the more affordable and easy visual attachments you can get for your 2-Series.
Performance Mods for your M2
The heart of the M2/S-Series is the way it drives. The goal for these performance upgrades is to improve your throttle response and power, and give your car the specs it needs to perform at its best.
Air Intake Systems
Upgraded air intake systems are usually the entry point to any performance tuning project. Replacing the factory intake with a high-flow filter and smooth intake tube lets the engine breathe better.
Why it's a great mod:
- Better throttle response: Less intake restriction allows the turbo to spool faster, releasing power on tap.
- Optimized induction: It brings out the turbo spool and blow-off valve sounds, making your drive more exciting.
- Supports other mods: An upgraded intake is a key part of helping other upgrades.
Downpipes
The stock downpipe often limits airflow because of the factory catalytic converter. A high-flow downpipe is one of the best bolt-on mods for power in your M2.
Why it's a great mod:
- Great power adder: Decreasing back pressure on an aftermarket exhaust system can aid in your turbo's efficiency, and with a tune, you may experience increases of horsepower and torque.
- Enhanced exhaust note: Gives it a deeper tone and can help the turbo noises be even louder.
- Base for power: This mod is a must-have for anyone who wants to take their engine over stock horsepower.
Intercoolers
Turbocharged engines produce a tremendous amount of heat, and excess heat is the enemy of performance.
A high performing intercooler is a must for lowering your incoming air temperature as it cools the incoming air more efficiently.
Why it's a great upgrade:
- Unwavering power: Your car will always make max power on back-to-back hard runs, be it track or a street.
- Supports other mods: If you have other mods increasing the car's boost, an upgraded intercooler is essential for supporting these types of mods and ensuring continued reliability and performance.
- Reduces heat soak: The cooler your intake air temp is, the closer you get to optimal performance.
Valved Exhaust Systems
If you’re really trying to make an impact on your BMW, it’s hard to go past a valved sport exhaust. With the press of a button, you can go from closed valves for quiet and smooth driving, to open valves for the aggressive, powerful noise and feel.
Why this is a great upgrade:
- Control over your sound: A valved exhaust lets you choose when to keep it quiet or let it rip.
- Better exhaust flow: Reduced restriction over the factory system helps improve throttle response and allows the turbo to breathe more efficiently.
- Works perfectly with other mods: A valved exhaust pairs great with other mods as the best foundation for future upgrades.
Where to Begin
If you’re thinking about upgrading your BMW 2-Series or M2, you’re fortunate to have such a compatible car for aftermarket tunes.
If it’s looks you're after, it’s hard to go past a spoiler. There’s plenty of options to choose from, it’s affordable & easy to apply, and it truly makes your car unique.
If it’s performance you’re chasing, it’s hard to go past a valved exhaust system. The additions in power and sound are unmatched, and it’s the perfect upgrade to get you started on your tuning journey.
Whether your goal is deeper personalization, a sportier driving feel, or more performance, the path is straightforward. By focusing on what matters most to you and choosing upgrades that align with your vision, you can shape your sports coupe into something uniquely your own.
