BMW Confirms Inline-Six Engine for New M3, Dismisses V6 Rumors

BMW Confirms Next M3 Will Stick with Inline-Six Engine

Speculations about the next BMW M3 being powered by a V6 engine have been put to rest by BMW CEO Frank van Meel. In an interview at the Japan Mobility Show, he confirmed that the seventh-generation M3, codenamed “G84,” will continue to feature the iconic inline-six engine.

Van Meel emphasized the importance of maintaining the inline-six setup, stating that it is the best combustion-engine option in the segment. He dismissed rumors about a V6 engine, pointing out that BMW has never produced a production car with a V6 engine and investing in a new engine would be costly and impractical.

While BMW has experimented with V6 engines in the past, none were able to meet the company’s performance standards. The reference to a “new type of six-cylinder engine” is believed to hint at an electrified evolution of the current S58 engine, rather than a V6 or plug-in hybrid.

BMW is expected to introduce a mild-hybrid system to the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine to meet emissions standards, particularly Euro 7. The initial M3 G84 model could produce around 525 horsepower, with potential for up to 560 hp in the future. BMW is also rumored to offer the next-generation M3 exclusively with xDrive and an automatic transmission.

The timeline for the new M3 is tight, with production of the current G80 model set to end in March 2027. The next-generation M3 is scheduled to begin production in mid-2028, possibly in Dingolfing instead of Munich.

In conclusion, BMW’s decision to stick with the inline-six engine for the next M3 reaffirms its commitment to performance and tradition. The move towards electrification and stricter emissions standards has prompted BMW to innovate and adapt, ensuring that the M3 remains a benchmark in the sports sedan segment.