Hm... I don't know, I didn't like the high spec handling. And there was no low spec to test.

Performance wise:
Sure it feels sharp and stable, but it's really stiff. I can feel every small crack in the road going up my ***. Maybe I'm getting old lol. MUCH prefer the M3. But of course, the M3 price is from another world also.

The other thing that is a deal-breaker for me is the noise. The low 45-profile tyres make a horrendous droning noise at 80km/h. To me that is unacceptable as I drive frequently more than that speed.

The SA probably tried to hide it by turning the radio on really loud. But my GF noticed the noise first. Normally I complain of my current ride being noisy but she says she can't hear anything. This time in the M2 she complain first, it's that loud.

When I asked the SA what is that noise, the SA keep quiet. I suspect it is the tyre noise because from 0-70 the engine is dead quiet, which is amazing, coming from my current car(not a Proton ). So perhaps might consider changing tyres or go for lower V-spec. I seriously think it's the tyres.

Interior:
The quality of the car seems to focus on the driver's seat only. Steering column is nice, signal stalks feel like Mercedes or BMW. Even the signal "tick tick" sounds like Merc/BM. Very classy.

Everywhere else however, the plastic is really cheap, sorry to say. But at that price, perhaps there's no other way to compromise. It's not unacceptable, but a bit disappointing given the attention given to the driver. Is this part of the Zoom-zoom philosophy? I don't know.

Exterior:
Hate the wheel arches, there's so much empty gaping space with no covers on the arches.

Love the "air-lock" boot catch. Feels so high-tech haha.

Actually, looks wise, it's up to the individual. So it doesn't matter what I comment.

Conclusion:
Good city car. For young people (probably) with strong back and ***. Very agile in small spaces. If you go outstation with this car, make sure to rest well and take breaks.


OT: In the end, I craved the M3 so much I'm going to starve myself to buy one. It handles better than the M2 and is much more comfortable. Seriously, go test drive one. Then you can aim for it as the next upgrade.

Hm... I don't agree with the "driving style" statement, but I won't comment further as some people might take it personally.

About the tyres though, you mentioned that they are not good. I second the comment, something seems off about it.... perhaps it is old stock and getting "hard"? Anyone else get a loud roaring noise thing at about 75+kmph? Did anyone manage to see the manufacture date on the tyres?

EDIT: BTW regarding the antenna thing, someone put on the CX-7 antenna on the M2, here's how it looks:


This post has been edited by Saros: May 5 2010, 12:15 PM