Motorsport has always been Philipp Eng's passion. He began to compete in karting at the age of 13 and moved to Formula BMW at 16. Eng has been a works driver for BMW M Motorsport since 2016 and consistently finishes on the podium, whether in the FIA WEC, DTM, IWSC or IGTC. And when the amiable Austrian isn’t on the racetrack, he reports on it: Phillip makes regular TV appearances as a motorsport expert. Recently, he was given the opportunity to take the new BMW M2 CS for a few laps on the Yas Marina Circuit at Abu Dhabi.
Hello, Philipp, thank you for taking the time to talk to us. What’s your first impression driving the new BMW M2 CS?
Well, I really enjoyed driving the car. It looks pretty cool and the driving dynamics are fantastic. The M2 CS is agile, but also very responsive. It has a lot of power and very good torque. So, I really enjoyed the laps on the track in Abu Dhabi.
In a BMW M model, performance and driving dynamics are particularly important and are always at a very high level: in your opinion, what are the differences between the CS and the base model?
The BMW M2 CS is even more uncompromising. You can really feel that it has more motorsport DNA in it. The ducktail on the boot lid shifts the aerodynamic balance slightly more towards the rear axle. So, you have more grip and more power on the rear axle in fast corners, and that’s what makes this car so special to me. Added to that are the tyres, which have been specially developed and tuned for this car. For me, this is an absolutely cool racing machine that also works on the road.
What are your thoughts on the technical aspects? Compared to the BMW M2: which strengths did the new BMW M2 CS demonstrate in that area?
The differences between the M2 and M2 CS are relatively large. Not only is the CS faster, it also handles more precisely. You can push the limits of the car further than the M2. If you look at its predecessor, the BMW M2 CS F87, which was also a mega cool car and top notch in terms of driving performance – BMW M has still managed to go one better. In any case, I’ve applied for the new BMW M2 CS – let's see if I can get one!
The BMW M2 CS is even more uncompromising. You can really feel that it has more motorsport DNA in it.
BMW M Motorsport works driver
Any observations regarding the suspension or the braking performance of the new BMW M2 CS?
Like I mentioned previously, the car is steadier on the rear thanks to the new aero balance which provides more downforce on the rear axle. And with the optional ceramic brakes, you have even better deceleration and safer braking.
Which interior features made a particular impression on you?
Well, I really like the seats, of course. And the lightweight centre console with the CS logo is really cool. Driver ergonomics are always a top priority at BMW M, and in the M2 CS, they have been perfected once again.
Previously, you’ve taken the new BMW M2 Racing to the test track – a genuine race car. To what extent do the driving dynamics and performance of the new M2 CS approach the feel of an authentic race car?
For a road-legal model, the BMW M2 CS comes very close to the feeling of driving a real motorsport vehicle. And both are great fun to drive.
Let’s talk about appearances: what do you like about the exterior of the new M2 CS?
Well, I really like the boot lid with the integrated ducktail. Mainly because it’s basically made from one piece. I own an M3 CSL E46 myself, and one of the reasons I bought it was because of the boot lid. I think it’s really beautifully made. Whenever I see an M2 CS, it always reminds me of my M3 CSL.
Are there any other M models that you consider to be among your favourites?
Yes, absolutely. I recently took delivery of an M5 Touring as my new company car. It is equipped with M Performance Parts and shines in Frozen Urban Green. It’s my absolute favourite M at the moment. It combines comfort with pure driving pleasure and efficiency. For me, it's always extremely cool to see how technology is transferred from motorsport to production models. The hybrid powertrain in the M5 follows the same principle used in the BMW M Hybrid V8 endurance racing car.
Thank you very much for your time, Philipp.
