The upcoming 2028 M3 will bring fresh styling, a mild-hybrid six-cylinder engine, and a far more minimalist interior. There’s already been plenty of discussion surrounding BMW’s forthcoming all-electric iM3, and understandably so.
As the M division’s first true high-performance EV, it could define the future direction of every M-badged model in the electric era. That said, BMW M isn’t abandoning combustion just yet. Alongside the electric iM3, a new internal-combustion M3 is also in development.
A fresh set of spy photos offers the clearest look yet at the next-generation ICE-powered M3, revealing its bold Neue Klasse-inspired styling. When the current M3 debuted for the 2020 model year, it sparked intense debate, largely due to its oversized, coffin-like kidney grilles. That controversial design feature appears to be headed for retirement.
The front fascia of the new M3 features redesigned headlights that flow neatly into a central grille made up of two much smaller kidney openings, closely resembling those seen on the original Neue Klasse concept. While the prototype is still heavily camouflaged and fitted with temporary body panels, the basic shape of the headlights and grille is clearly visible beneath the wrap.
As expected of a proper M car, the G84 M3 will feature widened front and rear wheel arches, giving it a more aggressive, planted stance. The rear end will also see major changes, including newly designed LED taillights.
The spy shots also hint at what may be the production exhaust layout. Unlike other test mules that placed the quad exhaust tips farther toward the edges of the bumper, this prototype shows the pipes grouped closer together, similar to the current-generation M3.
While the cabin of the next M3 hasn’t yet been revealed, it’s expected to closely follow the Neue Klasse interior philosophy already previewed in models such as the iX3. That likely means a wide “Panoramic iDrive” display, a redesigned steering wheel, and a significant reduction in physical buttons and switches.
BMW has confirmed that the upcoming M3 will continue to use the familiar 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six from the current model, updated to comply with the latest European emissions regulations. Sources indicate the S58 engine will be paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, potentially raising total output to around 560 horsepower.
There’s hope that BMW will manage weight carefully this time around. The latest M5 gained considerable mass due to its plug-in hybrid setup, but with only mild-hybrid assistance, the new M3 should avoid a similar increase.
The existing eight-speed automatic transmission is expected to carry over, possibly with refinements. However, reports suggest the six-speed manual and rear-wheel-drive configuration may not return. While that’s disappointing for purists, BMW’s xDrive system can still be configured to send power exclusively to the rear wheels when desired.
BMW has yet to confirm an official debut date, but the next-generation M3 could be unveiled sometime in 2027 as a 2028 model-year vehicle.
