BMW has shared exciting news for driving enthusiasts. The next-generation ICE-powered BMW M3 is likely to continue offering a manual gearbox despite stricter emissions regulations and declining supplier support. At the same time, BMW will retain its renowned S58 turbocharged straight-six engine with upgrades for Euro 7 compliance. The new M3 will also arrive alongside an all-electric version, giving buyers the freedom to choose their preferred powertrain.
BMW Remains Committed To Manual Gearboxes
BMW M CEO Frank van Meel has confirmed that the company wants to keep the manual gearbox alive for as long as possible. According to him, a three-pedal setup creates a stronger emotional connection between the driver and the car. That driving experience remains a core part of BMW M’s identity.
Strong Customer Demand Supports The Decision
The BMW M2 continues to prove that manual gearboxes still have a loyal fan base. In the United States, buyers are choosing the 6-speed manual and the 8-speed automatic in almost equal numbers. BMW also introduced the limited-run M3 CS Handschalter Edition for the US and Canada earlier this year, highlighting continued demand for manual performance cars.
Updated S58 Engine Will Power The New M3
BMW will continue using its 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged S58 inline-six petrol engine in the next-generation M3. However, engineers have upgraded the engine to meet upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards. The revised unit features pre-chamber combustion and new variable-geometry turbochargers. These improvements enhance combustion efficiency while reducing emissions.
Performance Figures Stay Unchanged
Despite the engineering upgrades, BMW will retain the current power output. The Euro 7-compliant S58 engine will continue producing 530 HP and 650 NM. BMW also claims the revised engine delivers a throatier intake and exhaust note at higher RPM. Meanwhile, engineers have improved cooling to maintain performance during demanding track sessions.
Larger Cooling System Influences Design
The upgraded engine requires a more efficient cooling system. As a result, the next-generation M3 is expected to feature a larger front grille with an even bigger intercooler behind it. BMW says improved cooling remains one of the biggest engineering priorities as emissions standards become stricter.
ICE & Electric M3 Models Will Co-Exist
BMW plans to sell petrol and electric versions of the next-generation M3 simultaneously. Both cars will share a similar exterior design inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse M Concept. However, they will sit on different platforms and use completely different powertrains. This strategy allows buyers to choose between traditional performance and electric driving.
BMW M3 Touring Will Return
BMW has also confirmed another generation of the M3 Touring. The performance estate has become one of BMW M’s strongest-selling models, especially in China. Like the sedan, the Touring will use the updated S58 engine and share most of its mechanical components.
Prices In India
BMW has not announced pricing for the next-generation M3. However, the current BMW M3 is not officially sold in India. If BMW introduces the new model through the CBU route, prices could comfortably exceed ₹1.60 crore (ex-showroom). The upcoming electric M3 is also expected to fall within a similar price range.
India Relevance
Although the BMW M3 remains a niche product in India, it enjoys a strong following among enthusiasts. The decision to retain a manual gearbox will appeal to purists who value driver engagement. If BMW launches the next-generation M3 here, it could attract collectors and performance car buyers looking for one of the last high-performance manual sports sedans.
Conclusion
BMW is proving that driver involvement still matters. By retaining the manual gearbox and refining the iconic S58 engine, the company continues to support enthusiasts despite stricter emissions rules. At the same time, BMW’s decision to offer both petrol and electric M3 models gives buyers greater flexibility. The next-generation M3 therefore promises to preserve its performance heritage while preparing for the future.
