The BMW 2002 Hommage is an M2-based Retro Thriller

Patrick Hoffstetter
by Patrick Hoffstetter

Just in time for the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’este, BMW revealed a stunning concept today that is just magnificent. Unlike last year’s concept, the automaker chose to blend retro and contemporary styling cues to give every kidney grille fan a real treat.

Last year, BMW shared with the world a 3.0L CSL Hommage that contained some cool ideas, but felt disjointed, and to my eyes was even a tad ugly. Many people felt that BMW had lost its way, but this year BMW hit back, knocking it out of the park with a concept known simply as the 2002 Hommage.

Based on the M2, the concept arrives just in time for the 50th anniversary of the 2002 — the car that put BMW on the map. Borrowing some cues from the 2002 Turbo of old while keeping some of the M2’s design language, the striking concept shows what we all want from the automaker: sporting, dashing design.

From the 2002’s squared front, to the “turbo” badging on the front fascia, this car is a greatest hits compilation of the original 2002 and the Turbo. Quad tailpipes, carbon fiber, and LED lighting inject modernity into the quasi-retro design. M mirrors remain, along with a wide stance.

There’s no word on the concept’s power figures, but since it is based on the M2, you can take an educated guess. Still, horsepower and torque isn’t important when dealing with a concept. Take a moment to look at this car and appreciate it. If anything, this proves that Bimmer can still make a stunning vehicle.

We can only hope that BMW adopts more of this design language in the future.

[Images: BMW Group]

Patrick Hoffstetter
Patrick Hoffstetter

Automotive writer based in Austin, TX.

More by Patrick Hoffstetter

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  • Rochester I'd rather have a slow-as-mud Plymouth Prowler than this thing. At least the Prowler looked cool.
  • Kcflyer Don't understand the appeal of this engine combo at all.
  • Dave M. This and the HHR were GM's "retro" failures. Not sure what they were smoking....
  • Kcflyer Sorry to see it go. The interior design and color options in particular are rare in the industry
  • Wolfwagen Here is my stable. not great not bad I try to do as much as possible. I work for an Aftermarket automotive parts company so I can get most parts at a discount.i try to do as much of my own work as possible. My wife hates that I spend time and money fixing the vehicles but she doesn't want car payments either so...2019 VW Atlas 50K (wife's) Only issues so far were Brakes and normal maintenance.A Bad Cat Converter which was covered and a replacement of the rear bank head gasket which was a manufacturing defect due to improper torquing at the factory. All under warranty2003 Saab 9-5 Arc Wagon (my DD) 116 K picked up used last year. Replaced Struts, brakes, hatch struts, motor mounts, D/S swaybar link, Timing belt, water pump and thermostat Power steering pump Fuel pump, Both Front window regular rollers, Heater core and cabin air filter. Oil and transmission changes. Love the car but Saab/GM packaging is a nightmare.2005 Cadillac Deville (former DD now Son # 1 DD) picked up used 5 years ago with only 47K now 83K Plugs, coils, P/s pump, Water pump, hoses, P/S lines (mechanic job) evap valve, brakes, Front brake calipers and rear brake calipers. Currently has oil pan gasket leak - looking to have a mechanic do that2009 Mini Cooper (Daughters dd)picked up 2 years ago 67K Brakes and thermostat house to clear check engine light2001 Mazda Tribue (Son#2 dd) 106K picked last summer after he severely damaged a 2004 Hyundai accent. Oil changes
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