The BMW M3 will always be regarded as the ultimate driving machine amongst auto enthusiasts. And after 31 years of M3, BMW is certainly moving the goal posts with the next incarnation. While the new 3-series (G20) will be revealed next year, the M3 will likely only be released in 2020. But with test mules being spotted, new details are starting to emerge about the next-generation model.
According to reports, the 6th-generation M3 will be equipped with a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine known as the S58B30, run through an 8-speed automatic. It’s said that the motor will be equipped with the water-injection system from the M4 GTS and outputs should match that off the M4 GTS – 367kw and 600nm – but remember, there will still be the Competition Pack, CS, and probably a CSL variant too, so expect this to be the power output of the base M3. This makes it more powerful than the 331kw Audi RS5, and puts it roughly on par with the 375kw Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Verde and 375kw Mercedes-AMG C63 S.
There is talk that BMW will add an xDrive all-wheel drive system into the mix, much like they did with the new M5 for optimal traction. And while this is standard on the M5, it’s expected to be an option on the M3. But the big news is that this will be the first “eco” M3 as it will use a 48-volt mild hybrid system and electrically spooled turbochargers. BMW M engineers are also apparently aiming to achieve a near perfect 50:50 weight distribution, and improve torsional rigidity through use of aluminium and other composites. Other high-tech features are said to include including adaptive dampers, variable-rate and variable-effort electrically-assisted steering, a locking differential, and a brake-by-wire system with four individual electric actuators.
The new 3-series sedan will be revealed next year, while the 4-series coupe and 4-series convertible (which switches from the bulky retractable hardtop to a power-operated fabric top) are scheduled for 2020, along with the M4 variant. The Gran Coupe however, follows a different route and will be transformed into an electric vehicle.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: When will the new BMW M3 be released in South Africa?
The next-generation BMW M3 is expected to launch in South Africa sometime in 2020, following the reveal of the new 3-series G20 platform in 2019.
Q: How much power will the new M3 have compared to the current model?
The new M3 will pack 367kW and 600Nm from its twin-turbo 3.0-litre S58B30 engine with water injection, making it significantly more powerful than the current model's 331kW output.
Q: Will the new BMW M3 have all-wheel drive?
Yes, BMW is expected to offer an xDrive all-wheel drive system as an optional extra on the new M3, similar to what they've done with the current M5.
Q: What makes this M3 different from previous generations?
This will be the first "eco" M3 featuring a 48-volt mild hybrid system, electrically spooled turbochargers, and advanced tech like adaptive dampers and brake-by-wire systems.
Q: How does the new M3's power compare to its German rivals?
The 367kW M3 will be more powerful than the 331kW Audi RS5 and roughly match the 375kW Mercedes-AMG C63 S and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Verde.
Should You Buy It?
Hold your horses, speed demons. While the next-gen M3 sounds absolutely mental on paper with its 367kW hybrid setup and all-wheel drive option, you'll need to wait until 2020 to get your hands on one. If you're looking for ultimate driving thrills right now, the current F80 M3 Competition is still available from around R1,200,000, and it's properly brilliant. But if you can wait and want the latest tech, hybrid efficiency, and that extra punch, the new M3 will likely land somewhere around R1,400,000 to R1,500,000 when it arrives. Our verdict: wait for the new one if you're not in a rush, it's going to be something special.
