The next-generation BMW M3, a petrol-powered hybrid, has been spotted undergoing testing near BMW’s headquarters in Munich, Germany. This sighting comes ahead of its anticipated official reveal in 2027, with a market release expected the following year.
Captured by CarExpert photographers, the test mule was seen on the streets north of Munich. Although the vehicle was heavily camouflaged and not in its final production form, notable features such as makeshift wheel-arch extensions and wider wheel tracks were visible, giving it an aggressive stance. The presence of twin outboard exhaust outlets, totaling four, confirms its identity as an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle.
BMW’s Dual Approach: ICE and Electric
The test vehicle closely resembles the wide-bodied electric M3 prototype seen earlier this year, which notably lacked exhaust outlets. BMW has confirmed that it will offer both a six-cylinder ICE-powered M3 and a battery-electric version of this iconic sports sedan, with both models being developed simultaneously.
The electric M3 will be based on BMW’s Neue Klasse chassis and electric architecture, which debuted with the BMW iX3 mid-size electric SUV. This platform will be extensively used across BMW’s lineup. Meanwhile, the petrol-powered M3 will utilize a new platform that underpins the broader 3 Series lineup set for 2027, likely adopting a hybrid powertrain similar to the larger BMW M5.
Hybrid Powertrain: A Glimpse into the Future
The current M5 features a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain derived from the XM large SUV, combining BMW’s ‘S68’ 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor. The upcoming M3’s hybrid powertrain is expected to be a powerful, hybridized version of the ‘S58’ 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, currently found in the M3 sedan/wagon and M4 coupe.
“The six-cylinder inline engine is our legacy, and the V8 has got a long history in racing, so we intend to keep going,” BMW M CEO Frank van Meel told Autocar earlier this year.
The highest output from this engine in current models is 405kW/650Nm in the M3 CS sedan and M3 CS Touring (wagon), with the sedan boasting a claimed 0-100km/h time of 3.4 seconds. The test car also features massive brakes with cross-drilled front rotors, although it remains unclear how many chassis components will be shared between the petrol and electric M3 models.
Electric Vision: The Future of M3
Earlier this year, BMW showcased what is believed to be an electric M3 prototype in the Vision Driving Experience concept car. This aggressively styled two-door concept was powered by four electric motors, which BMW claimed produce a staggering 18,000Nm of combined torque. While the power output was not confirmed, it is expected to reach up to 746kW.
“We’re going to make it the best M-car ever dynamically,” Dr. Mike Reichelt, head of BMW’s Neue Klasse division, told British magazine Top Gear. “We’re also going to offer it with a new type of six-cylinder engine, because we understand it may be early for some committed M fans to make the switch. But we are convinced the fully electric M3 is going to hit new heights and reach new target groups, because it’ll behave completely differently.”
Implications and Market Expectations
The introduction of a hybrid M3 represents a significant shift in BMW’s strategy, aligning with broader industry trends towards electrification while maintaining a commitment to traditional performance engines. This dual approach allows BMW to cater to both traditional petrol enthusiasts and the growing market for electric vehicles.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the hybrid M3 is poised to play a crucial role in BMW’s lineup, potentially setting new standards for performance and efficiency. With its official reveal still a year away, anticipation is building among enthusiasts and industry experts alike.
The next steps for BMW will involve refining the hybrid technology and ensuring that both the petrol and electric versions of the M3 meet the high expectations set by previous models. As the release date approaches, more details are expected to emerge, offering a clearer picture of what the future holds for this iconic sports sedan.
