In recent years, lifted sports cars have evolved into a fascinating niche within the automotive world. Major manufacturers such as Porsche and Lamborghini have poured substantial investments into creating high-riding versions of their performance cars. BMW even joined the conversation in April 2025 when it showcased a Dakar-style concept based on the M2—though, as it turned out, that concept was just an elaborate April Fool’s joke that never materialised.

However, the team at Zeus Off-Road, a European-focused off-road specialist shop based in Dubai, couldn’t shake off the idea of a raised BMW 2-Series. Determined to make it a reality, they embarked on developing what may well be the most adventure-ready BMW M240i ever built.

The BMW M240i doesn’t quite reach the performance extremes of the M2, but it remains a potent machine thanks to its twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. While the stock M240i sits low to the ground, the engineers at Zeus Off-Road removed the factory adaptive M suspension system in favour of a tougher setup. They installed three-way adjustable Flatout coilovers, delivering a three-inch lift and boosting total ground clearance to around eight inches.

Of course, creating a true Dakar-style sports car involves more than simply adding taller suspension. The original BMW bumpers were replaced entirely—Zeus Off-Road fabricated new front and rear bumpers to enhance approach and departure angles. Although the shop didn’t specify the exact figures, it’s safe to assume that swapping out the low-hanging plastic bumpers for compact metal ones has significantly improved off-road capability. The dual-tip exhaust also received a redesign, moving from the outer edges of the bumper to a central position for improved clearance.

To complement the mechanical upgrades, the M240i now rides on 17-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres, essential for tackling rough terrain. Additional modifications include an aluminium skid plate, front recovery points integrated into the bumper, and wider fender flares. The coupe even sports a tow hitch receiver, further underlining its new off-road focus.

All of the BMW’s new exterior components were crafted in-house by the Zeus Off-Road team. To prove the car’s capability, the company is reportedly using the lifted M240i as a genuine dune-bashing machine out in the desert. It’s a bold and unconventional approach to performance, but one that perfectly captures the spirit of adventure.