BMW is gearing up for the subsequent chapter within the M3 Sedan’s legacy, with the next-generation ICE mannequin—formally confirmed by BMW M CEO Frank van Meel in latest interviews. Now, the primary spy pictures of an early mule prototype have surfaced, providing lovers their first glimpse of the upcoming efficiency sedan in movement.
A Mule with Widened Fenders and M {Hardware}
The prototype caught testing isn’t but carrying its manufacturing physique. As an alternative, it sports activities makeshift widened fenders, an indicator of early improvement automobiles designed to check new chassis dimensions and suspension geometry with out revealing ultimate design cues. Even on this early stage, the stance seems to be daring and aggressive.
Behind the camouflage, some key M particulars are clearly seen. The mule is fitted with cross-drilled brake discs entrance and rear, clamped by giant M-specific calipers for max stopping energy. The automotive additionally rides on M aluminum rims, one other signal that BMW engineers are already fine-tuning the high-performance {hardware}. On the rear, the signature quad exhaust pipes verify that that is no peculiar 3 Sequence, retaining alive a design custom stretching again to the E46 M3.
Camouflage and Neue Klasse Design Cues
Like most early BMW take a look at automobiles, the G84 mule depends on heavy camouflage and plastic cladding to disguise its manufacturing particulars. Nonetheless, some options are onerous to overlook. Up entrance, the prototype clearly exhibits a departure from at present’s outsized kidney grille, transferring towards the elongated, horizontal grille design seen on latest Neue Klasse ideas and the upcoming M3 Electrical (ZA0). The grille is flanked by twin LED headlights on either side, although the entrance bumper stays lined by thick plastic panels, retaining the ultimate form beneath wraps.
The facet profile reveals retractable door handles, one other Neue Klasse hallmark, whereas on the again, a refined trunk spoiler and the trademark M quad exhaust pipes stand out. The taillights, nevertheless, are fully lined by the plastic disguise, leaving their ultimate design a thriller for now.
Powertrain: Delicate-Hybrid Six-Cylinder, No Handbook
Whereas visuals are nonetheless in flux, BMW insiders have begun sketching the technical define of the G84 M3. Sources counsel that the subsequent M3 will pair a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. Present rumors lean towards the S58 engine once more, enhanced with an built-in electrical motor within the transmission to ship sharper response and improved effectivity.
Output is anticipated to start at round 525 horsepower, with later variants prone to push between 530 and 560 horsepower. The main target of the hybrid system shall be effectivity and response, not outright energy boosts.
As for transmissions, the writing is on the wall: the six-speed guide gearbox shall be gone. The G84 is anticipated to launch completely with an eight-speed computerized and xDrive all-wheel drive. With the G80/G82 M3/M4 and G87 M2 serving as the ultimate manuals in BMW M’s lineup, purists could should say their final goodbyes to the clutch pedal.
No Plug-In Hybrid, Fortunately
In contrast to the M5 (G90/G99), which includes a heavy plug-in hybrid system, the M3 will keep away from the PHEV route. BMW M’s reasoning is simple: weight administration and packaging. Including a big battery pack would compromise the M3’s agility, responsiveness, and inside house—core attributes that outline the automotive’s character.
By sticking with a lighter mild-hybrid setup, the G84 M3 goals to protect its track-ready steadiness and exact dealing with whereas nonetheless assembly international emissions requirements. Very similar to Porsche’s technique with the subsequent 911 Hybrid, BMW sees this as the easiest way to maintain the M3 true to its motorsport DNA.
The G84 M3 gained’t arrive earlier than 2028, however these early sightings remind us that the M3 is way from completed. As an alternative, it’s making ready for a brand new period—one which blends BMW’s inline-six heritage with the hybrid future.
