BMW is one of the most recognizable car brands in the world with a lot of history, and the M3 is the most iconic model of the German brand. With almost four decades of production and refinement, it has carved a niche for itself in the performance space alongside its rival from Mercedes with the C63 AMG. The current G80 M3 is already four years old and will be due for replacement very soon, and we have received some exciting news.
While most automakers have been downsizing engines to meet emissions requirements, a few brands like BMW have been able to hold out for as long as possible. Even the C63 AMG has ditched its rumbling V-8 for a tiny hybrid four-cylinder. But while that car has gone soft with a smaller engine, BMW has stuck to its guts and will give the new M3 the engine it deserves.
The M3 Will Have The S58 Straight Six But No M4
BMW M Boss, Frank van Meel, has confirmed that the replacement M3 will come with the beloved S58 twin-turbo inline-six that powers the current BMW M3. This engine currently makes 453 horsepower for the base M3 and up to 550 horsepower in the range-topping M3 CS. This is paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, sending power to the rear wheel or BMW’s xDrive (4WD) system. BMW has promised that the next M3 will have a powertrain setup similar to what we already have now, which is a cause for celebration.
When Mercedes switched to the hybrid four-cylinder, M enthusiasts were worried that BMW would do something similar, but rest assured that this will not be the case. This engine is expected to make around 500 horsepower for the base model and up to 600 horsepower for the most powerful version, while meeting all Euro 7 emission regulations. However, BMW will discontinue a model in its lineup. Sadly, it has been confirmed the 4-series will no longer be available after this current generation. There are plans to make another M3 touring.
The Electric M3 Will Also Be Available
BMW also plans to launch an electric M3 alongside this one with four electric motors, one on each wheel, and we suspect it might be the most powerful M3 with this setup. This electric M3 will be built on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, which is dedicated to the production of future BMW EVs. The BMW i4 M50’s dual motor setup currently makes 544 horsepower in its most powerful version. A quad-motor high-performance setup is expected to make around 700 horsepower.
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