The BMW M2 has always been a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate its compact size, agile handling, and potent performance. The 2023 model year brings a new generation of the BMW M2, codenamed G87, that promises to be even better than before. But for some lucky drivers in South Africa, there is a special version of the M2 that offers something extra: the ZA Version.
The ZA Version is a limited-edition model that celebrates the 50th anniversary of BMW South Africa. Only 50 units will be produced, each with a unique number plaque on the dashboard. The ZA Version is based on the BMW M2 Competition, which means it has a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine that produces 405 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. It also has an M Sport exhaust system, an M differential, an M adaptive suspension, and an M Sport braking system.
But what sets the ZA version apart from the regular BMW M2 Competition are some exclusive features that make it more distinctive and desirable. The most obvious one is the paint color: Hockenheim Silver, which is only available on this model. The ZA Version also has black kidney grilles, mirror caps, side gills, and badges. The wheels are 19-inch forged alloys in a Y-spoke design, finished in matte black with a red accent stripe.
The interior of the ZA Version is also upgraded with some special touches. The seats are covered in black Dakota leather with contrast stitching and perforations in the colors of the South African flag. The same flag motif is also embroidered on the headrests and applied as a decal on the carbon fiber trim on the dashboard. The steering wheel is wrapped in Alcantara with a red center marker and an M Performance logo. The gear and handbrake levers are also covered in Alcantara with contrast stitching.
The ZA Version comes with a generous list of standard equipment, including a Harman Kardon sound system, a head-up display, a wireless charging pad, a rearview camera, and park distance control. It also has some advanced driver assistance features, such as lane departure warning, frontal collision warning, pedestrian warning, and city braking function.