BMW M2 Manual Or Automatic: Which One Feels More Rewarding

The BMW M2 remains one of the few modern performance cars that still gives you a choice between a manual gearbox and an automatic. While rivals like the Audi RS3 and Mercedes-AMG A45 S have gone auto-only, BMW continues to offer drivers the option of three pedals or paddle shifters — a rare sight in 2025.

Both versions use the same 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six, now with 480hp and 600Nm of torque. The six-speed manual offers a direct connection between driver and machine, with well-weighted pedals and a gearbox that is smooth enough for daily use. It also features rev-matching to keep shifts seamless, though this can be switched off for those who prefer to work the throttle themselves. Even in traffic, the clutch isn’t overly heavy, making it manageable for regular commuting.

The eight-speed automatic, on the other hand, is effortlessly refined at low speeds but transforms when set to its sportier modes. Paddle-activated gear changes are instant, and in the most aggressive setting, each upshift delivers a satisfying jolt. It’s undeniably the quicker of the two, getting off the line faster and maintaining momentum with minimal effort.

While the automatic is the better choice for those who mix road and track use or want a more relaxed drive in congestion, the manual holds a unique appeal. On public roads, where neither gearbox allows you to exploit the car’s full performance for long, the manual’s extra layer of engagement makes every drive feel more connected.

In the end, the choice comes down to how you like to drive. For maximum pace and convenience, the automatic is hard to fault. But for those who value involvement over outright speed, the manual keeps the BMW M2 feeling like a proper driver’s car.