WITH 530bhp and a top speed of 188mph, the new BMW M2 CS is the ultimate, limited-edition, high-performance version of the German manufacturer's compact saloon and first examples will be arriving in the UK in the late summer.

BMW reckons that the new, second-generation M2 CS sets a new benchmark in the compact high-performance sports car segment, continuing a prestigious lineage that began with the legendary BMW 2002 Turbo over half a century ago.

Priced from £86,800, it's a car for track-day connoisseurs and comes not just with increased engine power output but also model-specific chassis tuning and lightweight construction with an array of carbon fibre reinforced plastic components.

The six-cylinder, three-litre, in-line, twin-turbo engine gets a 50 hp power boost over the current-generation BMW M2's engine and boasts 650 Nm of torque. As a result, it matches the performance capabilities of both the BMW M3 Competition saloon and BMW M4 Coupé, powering from rest to 62 mph in just 3.8 seconds.

A ducktail spoiler integrated into the carbon fibre boot lid provides an unmistakable road presence and other distinctive features include bronze light-alloy wheels, a stripped-back kidney grille, a newly designed carbon rear diffuser and a matte black front splitter.

Inside, there's a performance-oriented cockpit with advanced digital technology including a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display. A standout feature is the centre console, which has been constructed entirely from carbon fibre, as have the heated and electrically adjustable, merino leather-upholstered front bucket seats.

A heated, flat-bottomed Alcantara steering wheel comes with two M buttons which provide quick access to individually configured vehicle setups.

The CS utilises the same cutting-edge operating concept for driving configurations as the standard M2 with a Setup button on the centre console providing direct access to settings for the engine, chassis, steering and brakes.

But the CS special edition also adds track-optimised functions including adrift Analyser and lap timer. The system also includes a track mode and ten-stage traction control system which can be tailored to the driver's individual preference.

Standard equipment includes three-zone automatic air conditioning, comfort access, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and BMW Live Cockpit Plus including navigation system.

A plethora of safety systems provide partially automated driving and parking capabilities, including driving and parking assistance, front collision warning, cruise control with braking function, speed limit info with blind-spot detection and lane departure warning.