Electric M3 Will Be ‘Significantly Faster’ Than Gas Model

BMW M boss Frank van Meel is adamant the current-generation M3 is the “finest automotive available on the market” in its section. Nonetheless, the G80 “has its struggles” in comparison with what the M division is cooking up subsequent: an electrical M3. Talking with Bimmer In the present day on the sidelines of the 2025 Goodwood Pageant of Pace, the highest brass at M didn’t miss the prospect to reward the ZA0.

With regards to monitor efficiency, van Meel confidently acknowledged the primary M3 with out a combustion engine “will finally be considerably quicker.” Even so, BMW will nonetheless cater to engine-loving lovers with the G84. Throughout the identical interview, the mayor of M City reiterated that one other six-cylinder model is at the moment in improvement.

Engineers are collectively creating the G84 and ZA0, with classes discovered from one utilized to the opposite and vice versa. BMW M is transferring as a lot as potential between the 2 vehicles, although their powertrains will naturally be considerably completely different. That stated, the gas-powered M3 may function some type of electrification.

We’ve reported on the opportunity of a mild-hybrid setup. A plug-in hybrid M3, like the brand new M5, has (fortunately) been dominated out, so the load penalty received’t be as vital. Regardless of the case, don’t maintain out hope for a rear-wheel-drive variant. In consequence, a six-speed handbook gearbox is more and more unlikely.

Why construct one other gasoline model if the EV might be quicker? As a result of BMW is aware of purists nonetheless desire a combustion engine underneath the hood. Whether or not it finally ends up being the B58 or S58 stays to be seen. Regardless, van Meel pledged to retain all six cylinders for what’s prone to be the ultimate gas-fueled M3.

Which one will arrive first? It’s too early for M to reveal a timeframe, however we consider the EV will cleared the path, with manufacturing reportedly beginning in March 2027. The ICE mannequin is predicted to comply with in July 2028. There’s a greater probability of seeing a Touring model of the electrical M3 than of the gasoline mannequin. In reality, the way forward for the common 3 Collection wagon (G51) is at the moment unclear.