- A next gen BMW M3 prototype was caught testing with inline six ICE power.
- M officials previously told us the new model will feature mild hybrid tech.
- The ICE powered M3 could arrive about one year after the fully electric version.
Performance cars will likely be the last bastion of the ICE era, but BMW M is embracing electrification. The slow-selling XM helped lead the charge and the sub-brand’s first fully electric vehicle will be the M3.
Spy photographers have snapped numerous prototypes over the past year and now they’ve finally spied the gas-powered model. As you can see, the sedan wears a familiar Neue Klasse design that closely echoes its electric counterpart.
Extra Airflow, Extra Purpose
However, a closer inspection reveals additional air intakes in the front bumper. While they’re covered by a mesh screen, it’s clear this sports sedan needs to breathe.
More: BMW’s Next ICE M3 Is A Mild Hybrid, Not A Plug-In Like The M5
That change kind of flies under the radar, but there’s no mistaking things from the rear. Instead of a plain rear bumper, the ICE-powered M3 has a sporty four-tailpipe exhaust system. The bumper itself has also been modified as it features cutouts and a less aerodynamic design.
Shproshots
Details That Matter
The rest of the car is pretty familiar, but it features bulging wheel arches and lightweight wheels that are backed up by a high-performance braking system. They’re joined by flush-mounted door handles, a subtle rear spoiler, and a more dynamic greenhouse.
Spy photographers didn’t get a look inside, but previous pictures of the EV have shown it will follow in the footsteps of the new iX3. This means we can expect Panoramic iDrive and Operating System X. They’ll be joined by a 17.9-inch infotainment system as well as a new steering wheel.
The interior of the new iX3.
What’s Under The Hood?
Little else is known about the model at this point, but BMW M’s Head of Development, Dirk Häcker, has previously told us the car will have an inline-six with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This promises to increase performance and efficiency, while avoiding the added weight and charging headaches of the fully electric model.
Specifics are few and far between, but the model will presumably have a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, a small battery, and an electric motor that could be integrated into the transmission. This should provide outputs in excess of the current ratings of 473 hp, 503 hp, and 523 hp.
How much more remains the big question, but we’ll likely have to wait awhile to find out as the ICE-powered model could arrive roughly one year after the M3 EV. This suggests the gassy version could land in 2028.
