In September 2018, we purchased a run out N55 BMW M2 LCI to replace our Audi RS3 demo car. We have much planned for the M2, including ecu remap, intercooler and downpipe etc. but for now, as we put some miles on it prior to the run-in service, we have opted to fit some KW Variant 3s and an Akrapovic evolution system with diffuser.

KW V3s

Being a KW Performance partner, and having made several trips to the factory in Germany to see the quality of their production facilities first hand, it’s no surprise that we picked KW Variant 3s for our M2.

Our suspension of choice for all fast road applications, they offer the desired ride height whilst dramatically improving the ride quality over the stock setup, in addition to unrivalled build quality. It’s no shock (excuse the pun) to learn that BMW themselves use V3s as their M Performance suspension option!

The V3s are constructed from extremely high-grade stainless steel, which means that when you come to adjust them in the future you won’t be plagued by corrosion issues; simply clean the threads and adjust away. They represent the ultimate in setup flexibility: the ability to adjust ride height, 12 different compression settings, and 16 rebound settings.

Installation
Installing the system takes around 3 hours to complete.

However, where possible we like to keep our customers’ cars overnight to allow for a test drive, for the system to settle and for a full 4-wheel laser alignment. This ensures we get the best out of the suspension setup.

The suspension settings can be easily modified once the suspension is on the car by simply turning the dials on the top and bottom of the shocker.

Ride & Handling
Exceptional is the only way to describe the ride quality of the KW V3s, even when you are at the lowest height settings. Our M2 spends its time on the (notoriously terrible) streets of Sheffield and out on the Peak District’s awesome undulating and windy B roads. The M2 rides considerably better than stock, whilst maintaining the incredible steering synonymous with M cars.

Pricing
The KW V3s for the M2 retail at £1895 plus fitting and alignment and are available from our webshop – clptuning.co.uk

Akrapovic Evolution Exhaust System

We have been an Akrapovic dealer since we opened and, in our opinion, they are the finest exhaust systems on the planet. Everybody should have the opportunity to visit their factory, it’s mind-blowing. Everything from the cast titanium to the carbon fibre they produce is made in-house in an environment that would rival any hospital operating theatre.

The system is made from a titanium alloy and comes with exquisite carbon fibre exhaust tips. 24% lighter than the stock system, it will give a 10bhp gain. The main reason to have this system on the M2, however, aside from the unparalleled quality of course, is the sound it produces. The stock system sounds good but the Akra is another level. It really has an addictive soundtrack.  The system comes with an optional sound kit that allows you to open and close the valves with the drive mode button and also a supplied Bluetooth button.

Installation
Installing any Akrapovic system is an absolute pleasure and takes around an hour, by the time you have adjusted the exhaust tips to perfection. This would be extended if you were fitting the sound kit, as extra wiring is required to take control of the exhaust valves. The system always fits better than the stock systems and you never ever have to modify or bend anything to fit – perfect every time, just as you would expect from a quality brand such as Akrapovic.

Costs
Akrapovic Evolution System – £5375
Optional Sound Kit – £520.76
High-Gloss Carbon Diffuser – £1238.69

All available on our webshop – clptuning.co.uk