BMW has shared exciting news for performance car enthusiasts by confirming that the next-generation petrol-powered BMW M3 will continue to offer a manual gearbox. Although stricter global emissions regulations and a shrinking supplier base are making manual transmissions increasingly difficult to maintain, BMW M says it is committed to preserving the classic three-pedal driving experience for as long as possible.
Manual Transmission Remains a Core Part of BMW M’s Identity
In an interview with Autocar UK, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel said that the manual gearbox remains an essential part of the BMW M brand’s heritage and identity. According to him, shifting gears manually creates a unique mechanical connection between the driver and the car.
Van Meel explained that a manual transmission is more than just a piece of engineering—it’s an emotional driving experience. That is why many performance car enthusiasts continue to prefer manual gearboxes even today.
BMW M2 Continues to See Strong Demand for Manual Transmission
BMW says customer demand remains one of the strongest reasons for keeping manual gearboxes alive, especially in the BMW M2.
Even in the United States, where automatic transmissions dominate the market, M2 sales are almost evenly split. According to the company, around 50 percent of buyers choose the 6-speed manual, while the remaining 50 percent opt for the 8-speed automatic version.
In May 2026, BMW also introduced the limited-production M3 CS Handschalter edition exclusively for the U.S. and Canadian markets with a 6-speed manual gearbox, further proving that enthusiasm for manual transmissions is still strong.
Keeping Manual Gearboxes Is Becoming Increasingly Challenging
Frank van Meel acknowledged that offering manual transmissions in the future will not be easy.
He explained that the number of suppliers producing manual gearboxes continues to decline. Additionally, integrating manual transmissions with increasingly sophisticated driver-assistance and safety systems has become far more complex than before. Despite these challenges, BMW remains committed to offering a manual option as long as it is technically feasible.
Next-Generation M3 Will Continue with the S58 Twin-Turbo Engine
While several competitors are switching to plug-in hybrid performance powertrains, BMW has confirmed that the next-generation petrol-powered BMW M3 will continue using the renowned 3.0-litre S58 twin-turbo inline-six petrol engine without adopting a plug-in hybrid system.
To comply with upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations, BMW has introduced several technical upgrades, including:
- Pre-chamber combustion technology for cleaner and more efficient combustion.
- New variable-geometry turbochargers.
- Improved combustion efficiency while maintaining the engine’s performance and signature character.
Power Output Will Remain Unchanged at 530hp
Despite the technical updates, the S58 engine will continue producing 530hp and 650Nm of torque, matching the output of the current M3.
BMW also claims the updated engine delivers a more aggressive induction and exhaust sound at higher RPMs, making the driving experience even more engaging.
Improved Cooling System Will Support High Performance
According to Frank van Meel, managing engine temperatures during high-speed track driving remains one of the biggest engineering challenges.
To overcome this, BMW has significantly upgraded the cooling system. As a result, the next-generation M3 is expected to feature a larger front grille and a higher-capacity intercooler, ensuring consistent performance even under demanding driving conditions.
Petrol and Electric M3 Models Will Be Sold Together
BMW plans to introduce both petrol-powered and fully electric versions of the next-generation M3 simultaneously.
Although both models will share styling inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse M Concept, they will be built on entirely different platforms and use completely different powertrains.
BMW says it wants customers to choose the driving experience they prefer rather than forcing them toward electrification. Buyers who appreciate the sound and character of a petrol engine will still have that option, while those seeking electric performance can opt for the EV version.
ICE and EV Models Expected to Be Priced Similarly
BMW M sales chief Sylvia Neubauer has indicated that the petrol and electric M3 models will be priced within a similar range.
She also confirmed that BMW will continue producing combustion-powered M cars for enthusiasts who are not yet ready to transition to electric vehicles.
Next-Generation BMW M3 Touring Also Confirmed
BMW has also confirmed that the next-generation BMW M3 Touring is on the way.
The current M3 Touring has become one of BMW M’s best-performing models, particularly in China, where demand has been exceptionally strong. The upcoming Touring is expected to share its powertrain and mechanical components with the M3 sedan while continuing to offer the perfect blend of everyday practicality and high-performance driving.