BMW took the wraps off what is quite possibly the most exciting car they have launched this year, the M2. A replacement for the 1M and a rival for Bimmer’s own M4, the 2016 BMW M2 is the closest M car in character to the original E30 M3.

Issues with identity crisis aside, BMW M2 is a pretty awesome little thing, boasting a turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder inline engine that packs 365 bhp and 343 lb-ft of torque (peak torque is 369 lb-ft with overboost function). That power in a light and compact car means superb performance: 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds (4.4 s with the six-speed manual gearbox) and a top speed of 155 mph (limited).

That’s right. 2016 BMW M2 will come by default with a manual gearbox and the M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) is an optional extra. This is a pure driver’s car built by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. In other words, it’s a real M car. They have also gone to enormous length to make sure the engine’s oil and heat management will remain optimal even in seriously punishing track sessions.

So it comes as no surprise that you have the ability to shut down all assists systems by pushing the DSC OFF button. This will also disable the built-in rev matching system for the manual gearbox, so you can heel and toe to your heart’s content. There is some geekiness in the car’s character though, as you can use the Driving Dynamic Control switch to select a driving mode and an exhaust note to go with it.

High-performance brakes, M developed Electric Power Steering, fully variable differential, and a M Dynamic Mode (MDM) that allows for easy drifting are among the other highlights of the brilliant BMW M2. Despite all this motorsporty features, the car looks and feels like a civilized Bimmer you can drive to work every day if you want to.  The car will launch in the spring of 2016. Pricing is TBA.