Unlike its competitor, the Mercedes C63 AMG, which has opted to reduce engine size, the next generation of the BMW M3—set to launch in 2027 or 2028—will retain its power from a six-cylinder engine.
For quite some time, enthusiasts of high-performance sports cars feared that BMW’s transition toward electrification would eventually lead to the removal of internal combustion engines, particularly from the BMW M3 model. This caused significant concern as many believed the heart of the M3 would be lost in favor of fully electric powertrains. However, that scenario won’t become a reality in the near future. In a recent interview published last Thursday, Frank van Meel, the head of BMW’s M division, shared with Bimmer Today that the automaker fully intends to keep offering a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine in the upcoming generation of the M3, slated to launch in 2027 or 2028.
In addition to this, van Meel confirmed that BMW’s engineers are already hard at work ensuring that this powertrain will meet the Euro 7 emission standards, allowing it to continue its legacy in an increasingly regulated market. In a video interview (translated), he stated: “We aim to keep the six-cylinder internal combustion engine operational for as long as possible. If demand from customers remains at its current level and does not significantly decrease, there is no reason to stop producing this engine.”
BMW’s strategy for the future seems to focus on versatility. The automaker plans to offer both gasoline-powered and fully electric versions of the BMW M3, meaning that the future lineup will cater to different consumer preferences. This decision indicates that BMW will have these two versions available side by side. The electric version will be based on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform and feature four electric motors, rumored to deliver up to 1,341 horsepower, significantly outpacing the combustion-engine BMW M3 . However, impressive performance figures alone won’t be enough to replace the beloved inline-six engine, which still holds a special place for many M3 enthusiasts.
Despite the electric version’s projected superiority in terms of acceleration and power, BMW remains committed to keeping the combustion engine alive for as long as the market demands it. Van Meel said, “Even though the electric BMW M3 will be noticeably faster than today’s combustion-powered models, if there is still a demand for traditional internal combustion engines, we will not deny customers the option of owning one.”
In contrast, Mercedes-Benz has taken a different approach with its latest C63 AMG, which has caused a stir among performance car fans. Mercedes replaced the iconic V8 engine with a smaller but more powerful four-cylinder engine, supported by a hybrid system that together produces 680 horsepower and 1,020 Nm of torque. Despite the impressive figures, sales of the 2024 Mercedes C63 AMG have not met expectations, partly due to customer disappointment over the switch from the beloved V8 engine to a four-cylinder alternative. This has highlighted the challenges some automakers face when transitioning to smaller, more efficient engines in a market that has long celebrated the power and performance of larger engines.
Looking ahead, BMW’s next-generation BMW M3 , both in its gasoline and electric forms, is still several years away from reaching showrooms. Before these high-performance models make their debut, BMW first needs to introduce the Neue Klasse platform, which is scheduled to arrive next year. This platform will lay the foundation for the brand’s upcoming electric models, including the electric M3. As for the combustion-powered M3, fans will have to wait until 2027 or 2028 to see the new model, but the good news is that both versions are in the pipeline.
BMW’s decision to maintain a six-cylinder engine alongside its electric counterparts demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing a diverse range of options for its loyal customer base. Unlike some of its competitors, BMW seems to understand that not all drivers are ready to fully embrace electric vehicles, particularly when it comes to high-performance models like the M3. This forward-thinking strategy could help BMW maintain a competitive edge, especially as other automakers face backlash for moving too quickly toward smaller, hybrid, or fully electric powertrains without considering the preferences of traditional performance car buyers.
In summary, while BMW’s future BMW M3 models—whether electric or gasoline-powered—are still a few years away, the company’s decision to preserve its iconic six-cylinder engine is a clear indication that the brand intends to cater to its diverse fan base. With the introduction of the Neue Klasse platform next year, BMW is setting the stage for a future where high-performance, electric-powered cars coexist with the tried-and-true internal combustion engines that have long defined the M3’s legacy. So, whether you’re a fan of electric power or traditional gasoline engines, BMW seems to be keeping both options available for the foreseeable future, ensuring that no one is left behind.
