Breaking: 2028 BMW M3 G84 Unveiled with Surprising ICE M4 Absence
The automotive world is abuzz with exciting news as BMW is gearing up to continue the legacy of the iconic M3. Insider sources have revealed that BMW has plans in motion for the next-generation M3, known internally as the G84. Enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the anticipated release window of 2027-2028. This revelation comes hot on the heels of the much-anticipated G50 3 Series, scheduled to make its debut towards the end of 2026.
G84 M3 Takes Cues from G50 3 Series
One of the major bombshells from the grapevine is the conspicuous absence of a successor to the current combustion-engine BMW M4. Contrary to expectations, there are no active plans for a new M4 model sporting a traditional internal combustion engine. As is customary in the automotive industry, nothing is set in stone until officially confirmed by BMW. Production strategies could also witness changes up to 18 months before the commencement of manufacturing.
The future G84 M3 is rumored to be coexisting with the first-ever electric M3 (chassis code ZA0). While specific technical details remain under wraps for now, expectations are high for the persistence of the S58 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine in the new BMW M3 (G84). The S68 engine is slated to meet Euro 7 standards, in line with the stringent emissions regulations that will come into play in 2025. The G84 M3, built on the G50 CLAR platform, is anticipated to hit the market towards late 2027 or early 2028, a timeline that dovetails neatly with the production lifespan of the current G80/G82 M3/M4 models planned until Spring 2027. Furthermore, a facelift for the BMW M3 is on the cards for this year, following in the footsteps of the M4's design updates.
Electric vs. ICE M3s Coexistence
With the current landscape showing signs of a cooling electric car market, the strategic move by BMW to introduce a new ICE M3 seems more sensible than ever. Several automakers are now reconsidering their stance on going fully electric by 2030. Moreover, countries like the UK have extended their bans on new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles until 2035, providing manufacturers such as BMW with a cushion to adapt to evolving regulations and shifting consumer demands.
The prospect of having distinct versions of the M3 is indeed tantalizing. Electric vehicle enthusiasts can anticipate the electrifying performance of an electric M3, while traditionalists who savor the classic engine symphony can opt for the combustion-engine M3, promising a visceral auditory experience.