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The original character of the M car is kept even with a re-tuned engine, adjusted suspension, and improved aerodynamics.
BMW's newest line-up of 2-Series coupes has officially received performance upgrades from the minds at AC Schnitzer. Building on 35 years of proprietary tuning in Aachen, the company's newest venture focuses on the boxy, all-new G42 chassis 2-Series. Decades of modification experience have led AC Schnitzer to the conclusion that subtlety wins out, and the company's take on an enhanced M240i is a testament to that.
With a bump in power to 420 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, it's certainly not boring. A custom stainless-steel exhaust system pipes out the sound of the surging turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six through carbon-fiber exhaust tips. In combination with an AC Schnitzer control unit, the exhaust and intake modifications account for a 12% increase in horsepower and a 17% torque gain.
Though the M240i is fitted with BMW's adaptive dampers, a lower center of gravity and improved stance was a focal point for the tuned coupe. The company decided on a 20-25mm drop front and rear through the use of lowering springs, in addition to removing the adaptive dampers in favor of Nürburgring-tested pre-valved shocks. Complimenting the lowered stance is a set of AC Schnitzer-built AC4 Flow Forming 20-inch wheels with a staggered 245 front/255 rear tire setup. A 12mm wheel spacer is recommended as part of the widened stance.
Due to the boxy nature of the M240i, improving aerodynamics was another key piece of the AC Schnitzer additions. In addition to lowering the stance and widening the track, a front splitter and two-piece rear spoiler balance out the visual presence and add downforce at each end. It might be hard to imagine aftermarket aerodynamic pieces seamlessly integrating into a somewhat pedestrian road car, but the engineers in Aachen are clearly versed in blending bodywork and paint-matching.
Despite the unassuming looks, few of the original 2-Series touch points remain inside. The stock steering wheel has been swapped out for a company-derived 365mm leather and Alcantara wheel. The updated wheel has recessed grips on the right and left for the driver's thumbs with an AC Schnitzer logo for the center mark, helping drivers orientate the wheel position during spirited driving. Aluminum shift paddles accompany the custom steering wheel, and aluminum pedals are available as well.
The AC Schnitzer offerings can be purchased as a full-car package or in individual pieces come August 2022. As far as aftermarket parts go, AC Schnitzer is hard to beat in terms of quality and select parts have warranty periods, ranging from two to five years. The company's press material emphasizes the importance of everyday practicality and a high degree of sportiness: a goal the upgraded M240i seems fit to accomplish.