Next-Gen BMW M3 to Feature All-New Six-Cylinder Engine Alongside High-Performance Electric Variant

BMW doubles down on performance heritage with a newly developed petrol engine and a cutting-edge EV for the next-generation M3, debuting on the Neue Klasse platform.

BMW Confirms Next-Gen M3 with Electric and Gasoline Variants

BMW is gearing up to revolutionize its iconic M3 nameplate with a dual-variant strategy—an all-electric version and a completely redesigned six-cylinder petrol-powered model. As part of the automaker’s push into electrification and high-tech platforms, the next-gen M3 will be based on the Neue Klasse architecture, which is expected to underpin a new era of BMW performance and innovation.

While the electric M3 promises over 700 horsepower and cutting-edge software systems, BMW is equally committed to preserving the internal combustion engine (ICE) performance legacy through an all-new six-cylinder engine developed exclusively for this generation.

All-New Six-Cylinder Petrol Engine: A Break from S58

BMW has confirmed that the upcoming petrol M3 will not use the current S58 twin-turbo inline-six, but instead feature an entirely new six-cylinder engine tailored to the new M3 platform. Though detailed specifications remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest this engine could include hybrid assistance to deliver output figures potentially rivaling the EV version’s 700 hp mark.

Importantly, BMW has ruled out downsizing to a four-cylinder engine, preserving the M3’s performance DNA and aligning with enthusiast expectations.

Electric M3: Over 700 HP with “Heart of Joy” Driving System

The electric M3 will be built on an 800-volt EV platform and will incorporate BMW’s revolutionary “Heart of Joy” control unit. This integrated software system coordinates the drivetrain, regenerative braking, energy management, and steering for lightning-fast response and unmatched precision.

According to Dr. Mike Reichelt, head of the Neue Klasse program, the focus isn’t just on acceleration but on achieving predictable, real-world handling. The electric M3 is engineered to provide balanced driving dynamics, enabling stable cornering without the need for constant electronic correction—something that aims to please purists and tech-savvy drivers alike.

Launch Timeline and Global Rollout

The Neue Klasse-based 3 Series is set to debut globally by late 2025, with customer deliveries starting early 2026. However, the gasoline-powered M3 variant will arrive slightly later, likely launching by the end of 2026 or early 2027.

BMW is expected to release more details about both variants in the coming months as development milestones are met.