BMW's Next M3 to Keep Three Pedals and Ditch Plug-In Hybrid
BMW M CEO confirms next-gen M3 will offer ICE and electric power, with a manual transmission possible.
Key Takeaways
- Next-gen M3 to offer ICE and electric power
- New M Ignite engine to debut in current M3 and carry over to new model
- Gas-powered sedan expected to arrive in 2028, roughly a year after the EV
- Manual transmission possible, with a focus on driving emotion
- No plug-in hybrid for the ICE-powered M3
ICE Powertrain to Carry Over
In my experience, the decision to carry over the M Ignite engine is a significant one. This engine, which debuts in the current M3 and M4 next month, uses BMW M Ignite technology to burn cleaner and more efficiently.
As BMW M CEO Frank Van Meel mentioned, the engine will also be used in the next-generation of performance cars, including the M2, which will get it in August.
This decision suggests that BMW is committed to the perfect combustion principle, and is not ready to abandon ICE power just yet.
No Plug-In Hybrid for the M3
One of the most interesting aspects of the next-gen M3 is the decision to ditch the plug-in hybrid powertrain. This is a departure from the M5, which has a beefy 22.1 kWh battery pack.
Van Meel suggested that the ICE-powered M3 will have mild hybrid technology, but it won’t be a plug-in hybrid. This is good news for those who want a more traditional driving experience.
In my opinion, this decision is a nod to the driving enthusiasts who value the purity of the driving experience.
Manual Transmission Possible
Van Meel also hinted that a manual transmission is possible for the next-gen M3. This is a welcome surprise, as many had assumed that the manual transmission would be phased out in favor of automatics.
As Van Meel said, “We want to do it for the driving emotion.” This suggests that BMW is committed to preserving the driving experience, and is willing to offer a manual transmission to those who want it.
Electric Variant to Arrive First
The electric variant of the M3 is expected to arrive in 2027, roughly a year before the gas-powered sedan. This is an interesting move, as it suggests that BMW is prioritizing the electric powertrain.
However, as Van Meel mentioned, the EV won’t just be the quicker car in a straight line, it’ll be faster around a track too. This suggests that BMW is confident in the performance of the electric powertrain.
Specs Comparison
| Model | Engine | Transmission | Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current M3 | 3.0-liter straight-six | Automatic | 473 horsepower |
| Next-gen M3 (ICE) | 3.0-liter straight-six (M Ignite) | Manual/Automatic | TBD |
| Next-gen M3 (Electric) | Electric powertrain | Automatic | TBD |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the next-gen M3 have a manual transmission?
A: Yes, a manual transmission is possible, according to BMW M CEO Frank Van Meel.
Q: Will the ICE-powered M3 be a plug-in hybrid?
A: No, the ICE-powered M3 will not be a plug-in hybrid, but will have mild hybrid technology.
Q: When will the electric variant of the M3 arrive?
A: The electric variant of the M3 is expected to arrive in 2027, roughly a year before the gas-powered sedan.
