While the redesigned BMW 2 Series->ke2065 and the performance-oriented M235i are freely roaming the streets as we speak, the range-topping M2->ke3901 is still a long way from showing itself in production guise. Sure, we've seen the beefed-up coupe->ke141 in several spy photos during the first half of 2014, but the two vehicles spotted on inner city streets and on the Nürburgring track were merely test mules wearing various M235i body parts.

Scheduled to break cover in 2015, it seems the M2 is finally starting to take shape, as our paparazzi have caught the coupe during a new test session on the 'Green Hell.' It's not the first time the M2 takes on the 'Ring's twisty course, but this time around, the BMW->ke178 looks closer to what we'll be seeing in dealerships for the 2016 model year. The differences between the first mules and the new prototype are massive, especially in the bumper area, meaning this is our best look yet at the upcoming M2.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2016 BMW M2.

Spy Shots

There's little doubt that this M2 is fitted with the actual production bumpers. The center, trapezoidal air dam on the front bumper is similar to that seen on the larger M4, while the side intakes are also designed around the same cues. It's a massive departure from the M235i-like bumper the M2 mule showed up with in June 2014. Same goes for the rear end, where the apron has been modified to incorporate a diffuser-like piece and a quad exhaust. The front fenders also appear to be different, as in a bit more flared in the wheel arch area, however the swirly camouflage does a great job at hiding it.

Other noticeable features include the cross-drilled rotors, the large brake calipers, and the twin five-spoke, lightweight wheels. The latter are borrowed from the M4 and come wrapped in track-spec Michelin rubber.

Under the hood of the M2 hides BMW's already familiar turbocharged, 3.0-liter, inline-six engine. The mill is shared with the M4, but the compact coupe won't be as powerful as its 425-horsepower big brother. We expect the M2's N55 turbo to help generate around 380 ponies and 360 pound-feet of torque. Stay tuned to TopSpeed for more details on this gorgeous German machine.

Why It Matters

These new spy shots finally confirm that the M2 will be more than slightly beefed-up M235i as far as design goes. BMW is aiming to build a shrunken M4, which isn't a bad thing when you're trying to offer a more compact and affordable solution to one of the most appealing sports coupe on the market. Judging by the photos and the development stage the coupe appears to be in, it's also safe to assume the new M2 will break cover in the first quarter of 2015, which production to start next summer.

Rendering