Delayed Arrival: BMW’s Next Special Car on Hold

If you’ve been eagerly anticipating the launch of another rare and exclusive BMW model akin to the Speedtop and Skytop, the wait may be longer than expected. The head of the M division recently disclosed in an interview that while there is potential for a new ultra-exclusive vehicle in the future, there are currently no plans in Munich for such a high-priced specialty model.

Frank van Meel, in an interview with the Australian publication CarSales, expressed optimism about the eventual release of another low-volume BMW. However, there is no active development of a successor to models like the M4 CSL-based 3.0 CSL or the M8-based Skytop and Speedtop. If greenlit, a new exclusive model may not enter production until 2028 or later.

The statement from the BMW M CEO aligns with the current focus on concluding production of the limited Skytop model, which is capped at 50 units. Following this, the Speedtop, a two-door shooting brake scheduled for production in late 2026 with plans for 70 units, will be the next exclusive offering from BMW.

Looking ahead, there is a possibility of a fourth model outside the regular BMW product lineup. Sylvia Neubauer, Vice President of Customer, Brand, and Sales at BMW M, hinted at the potential for an M car separate from the standard portfolio. Discussions are ongoing, with a slot reserved for BMW M in the future.

“We are discussing things, but we need to find the right time to do it. Be assured, we share the same dream and passion. We have been talking with Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design, and the team responsible for small-series planning.”

While the timing may not be ideal currently, given BMW M’s focus on launching around 30 vehicles by 2029, including updates and new entries, there is potential for another specialty model once current projects are completed.

Despite the absence of immediate plans for a new exclusive model, BMW’s tradition of unveiling concepts at events like the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este leaves room for speculation about future releases.

Recent launches of exclusive models like the Skytop and Speedtop, priced at €500,000 each, have been successful, indicating a strong market for ultra-limited BMW vehicles. The 3.0 CSL, priced at €750,000, also saw significant demand upon release.