Next BMW M3 Gains ‘New Type’ Six For Unrivaled Road Handling

BMW is preparing a dual-powertrain strategy for the next M3, introducing a fully electric version and a fresh inline-six engine to cater to diverse driver tastes. Engineers say that this new internal combustion unit differs substantially from the current S58 turbocharged six, promising a level of performance that could potentially match the EV’s estimated 700-horsepower output. The anticipated combination of advanced hardware and BMW’s signature high-rev dynamism hints at a potent successor to today’s M3—one that upholds the familiar exhaust note and driver involvement cherished by purists.

Despite the automotive industry’s shift toward electric propulsion, BMW is eager to assure committed fans that internal-combustion performance can still progress. Instead of downsizing to a four-cylinder format as some competitors have, the automaker maintains the M3’s hallmark inline-six layout, albeit in a heavily revised form. Executives have implied adopting hybrid elements, which could enhance torque delivery and overall power, while potentially reducing emissions and boosting efficiency. These innovations are likely to attract an even broader range of enthusiasts, from traditional M devotees to those seeking a next-level sports saloon with a sustainable edge.

Beyond the powertrain, a robust electronics architecture known as the “Heart of Joy” will debut in the new M3 to coordinate vital functions like drivetrain, braking, steering, and energy management under a unified control. Early previews of this system suggest a more precise driving experience, especially when tackling sweeping curves. BMW notes that this integrated controller processes data up to ten times faster than current setups, allowing the car to maintain a near-perfect cornering stance with minimal corrections from the driver. Such an approach is intended to highlight handling finesse as much as raw acceleration, reflecting an automotive landscape where pure speed is no longer the sole performance measure.

Although BMW hasn’t revealed every detail, insiders suggest the next M3 will arrive after the core Neue Klasse 3 Series hits showrooms, meaning a launch window around late 2026 or early 2027. With a powerful new six-cylinder option complementing an electrified stablemate, the new M3 is poised to please longtime aficionados while signifying BMW’s focus on leading-edge technology. The promise of continued power, a refined driving feel, and the legacy of one of the world’s most celebrated sports saloons ensures this model will be a landmark entry in BMW’s evolving lineup.