2016 BMW M2 looks just as great as it drives (pictures)

The M2 carries heritage not only from the 1 Series M Coupe, but also from the classic 2002 turbo.

The three-liter, six-cylinder engine puts out 365 horsepower and a maximum 369 pound-feet of torque.

What you always hope to see in a sporty coupe: a mechanical hand brake.

The seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission is a $2,900 option. Pricey, but the shiftable gearbox is insanely quick and will hold gears as long as you require.

The M2 comes standard with a rev-matching six-speed manual transmission.

The driver-focused cockpit is a trademark of BMW, and the M2 is no different. All infotainment and climate controls are angled towards the driver, allowing for easy access to technology.

Quad tailpipes out back are the speakers through which a throaty rumble emits.

Lightweight 19-inch forged wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

The Long Beach Blue Metallic paint makes the BMW M2 pop. Other metallic colors available are Black Sapphire and Mineral Gray. Alpine White is the only nonmetallic color available.

The typical BMW proportions are evident in the new M2. Compact sheet metal, a long wheelbase and a steeply raked greenhouse all make this an unmistakable ultimate driving machine.

Large air intakes and a slightly squintier headlight design dominate the front fascia of the 2016 BMW M2.

The 2016 BMW M2 doesn't have to go on the race track, but why deny yourself the opportunity? Trust us, just go.

Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca was the perfect place to put the BMW M2 through its paces.

The BMW M2 has launch control, which BMW says will move the coupe from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds with the automatic transmission.

The BMW M2 Coupe in the Corkscrew at Laguna Seca.