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The upcoming petrol-powered BMW M3 has been spotted undergoing testing at the Nürburgring, and indications suggest that the high-performance sedan may continue to feature a manual transmission.

At the Goodwood Festival of Speed held last week, BMW M division head Frank van Meel confirmed that the brand’s petrol performance models will continue offering manual gearboxes for “as long as possible.”

He noted that in the US, sales of the smaller BMW M2 coupe are equally divided between automatic and manual variants, even though the American market is traditionally dominated by automatic transmissions.

Explaining the appeal of manual gear shifting, van Meel said: “We want to maintain that mechanical connection – shifting gears yourself. It’s an emotional experience, not just a technical one, and it still resonates with enthusiasts.”

However, he acknowledged that incorporating a manual gearbox in mainstream vehicles is becoming increasingly challenging. “The supplier base for manual transmissions is shrinking, and with the integration of advanced driver assistance and mild-hybrid systems, disconnecting the drivetrain becomes more complex. Once you do that, you’re disconnected from those systems too,” he explained.

Despite these difficulties, van Meel reaffirmed BMW’s commitment: “This doesn’t mean it’s impossible. We plan to keep the manual gearbox for as long as we can.”

M3 retains its iconic straight-six engine

A key highlight of the next petrol-powered BMW M3 will be the continuation of its turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine, a core part of the model’s identity.

This approach sets BMW apart from its German competitors. For instance, the Audi RS5 kept the RS4’s 2.9-litre V6 but added plug-in hybrid components, while the Mercedes-AMG C63 transitioned from a V8 to a four-cylinder PHEV powertrain.

BMW’s ‘S58’ engine, also used in the M2 and M4 coupes, has been recently re-engineered to comply with Euro 7 emission standards – a significant technical achievement.

The engine incorporates pre-chamber combustion technology, where a small amount of fuel ignites in a separate chamber before entering the main cylinder. This produces a high-energy jet that ignites the main charge more efficiently than a conventional spark plug.

According to BMW, this process enhances combustion speed, leading to improved energy and fuel efficiency, and consequently, lower emissions.

Van Meel elaborated last year: “The key is maintaining combustion at lambda one (ideal air-fuel ratio). With Euro 7 regulations, fuel can no longer be used for cooling under high performance, so we had to find new methods to manage heat.”

This refined combustion process also helps prevent knocking, enabling the engine to run at a higher compression ratio and generate more power. Additionally, new variable-geometry turbochargers have been introduced.

These upgrades allow BMW to maintain the same power levels while meeting stricter emission standards. The automaker also claims that the latest setup produces a deeper and more engaging induction and exhaust note at higher revs.

BMW has confirmed that “power outputs will be unchanged from the outgoing engines.” For context, the current M3 delivers 523bhp and 479lb ft of torque.

Van Meel further commented: “We’re leading with the M3 today, and we’re not stepping back. That’s why we decided early in development to adapt the existing engine for EU7 compliance – that part is already completed.”

He added, “Looking ahead to the next-generation M3, the drivetrain is already in place. We’re actively working on the combustion-engine variant – it’s firmly part of our future plans.”

Van Meel expressed confidence in maintaining performance levels, though he acknowledged that the new engines pose cooling challenges. “On the track, temperature management is crucial. We’ve enhanced cooling systems accordingly, and with bigger engines and radiators, structural strength becomes even more important.”

This explains the large open grille at the front of the prototype, which houses a substantial intercooler.

When asked whether there’s still room for improving internal combustion performance under tightening regulations and growing EV investments, van Meel simply replied: “Yes.”

Choice between petrol and electric powertrains

Although the next-generation M3 will be available as both a petrol and an electric model, each will be based on distinct architectures, effectively making them two separate cars. However, the petrol version will share its exterior design with the electric one.

The design direction was previewed by the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse. Differences include a larger front grille and a smaller rear diffuser for the petrol model. The electric variant will optimise underbody aerodynamics due to the absence of an exhaust system, whereas the petrol version will retain the signature quad-tip exhaust layout.

Van Meel emphasised that offering both drivetrains allows BMW to cater to all performance enthusiasts. “Some customers prefer the combustion engine for its sound or because they can’t charge easily – that’s perfectly fine. Others focused on racing or dynamics might choose the electric one. I often say, if you can’t decide, get both – one petrol and one electric – and enjoy choosing every day.”

He added, “The same customers can decide between M2, M3, M4 or an M Performance model. Now they can also choose between electric and combustion. Our promise is that the driving experience and emotional connection remain consistent.”

BMW M sales chief Sylvia Neubauer recently confirmed that the petrol M3 will be priced in a similar range to its electric counterpart. “Of course, we won’t convince every petrol enthusiast to switch to an electric M3,” she said. “But some will be persuaded after experiencing it. For everyone else, the combustion engine remains an option.”

Neubauer continued, “There will be certain design differences due to functional needs, but when seen together, the two versions will clearly be siblings.”

M3 Touring to make a comeback

The M3 Touring estate is expected to remain part of the model range. Neubauer commented, “The M3 Touring is one of the best models in our portfolio.”

She noted its unexpected success in China and the strong demand for the larger M5 Touring in the US – two markets traditionally less inclined towards BMW estates. In fact, the M3 Touring is currently the only 3 Series Touring available in China.