BMW confirms next-generation M3 Touring with petrol and electric power

BMW has confirmed plans to launch the next-generation M3 Touring, which will use the Neue Klasse platform. This platform also underpins the upcoming M3 sedan. The decision follows strong sales of the current G81 M3 Touring, which debuted in June 2022 as BMW M's first production estate. The new model will be the second generation of the M3 Touring.

Key Highlights

• BMW to launch next-gen M3 Touring on Neue Klasse platform.
• Model to offer both combustion and fully electric powertrains.
• Strong demand from US and China drives development.
• The current M3 Touring produces 530 HP and 650 Nm of torque with a 3.0-liter engine.
• Electric version to feature at least a 100 kWh battery and 800 V architecture.

Strong Global Demand Drives Development

Sylvia Neubauer, head of Customer, Brand, and Sales for BMW M, told Autocar UK that demand for the BMW M3 Touring remains high. She noted that the United States and China are the primary markets for the model. In the US, BMW does not offer the standard BMW 3 Series Touring, as the market prefers SUVs and larger vehicles. However, Neubauer said BMW dealers in the US welcome the M3 Touring because customer demand is organic and strong.

Neubauer added that US customers are requesting increased production, prompting BMW to boost output. In China, the market does not typically favor estate cars. Despite this, BMW offers only the M3 Touring and not the regular 3 Series Touring. Neubauer described the M3 Touring in China as a lifestyle statement and reported that it has achieved significant success there and in other global markets.

Powertrain Options and Technical Details

BMW previously told Autocar UK that the next-generation M3 sedan will be available with both combustion and fully electric powertrains. It is likely that the new M3 Touring will also offer these options. The upcoming electric M3 sedan will feature simulated gearshifts and synthetic sounds, which may also appear in the estate version.

The Bavarian automaker confirmed that the battery capacity for the electric M3 sedan will be at least 100kWh. The electric M3 Touring could use a similar setup, including an 800V architecture and four electric motors. For the combustion version, the current sixth-generation M3 Touring produces 530 HP and 650 Nm from its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six engine. BMW is expected to increase power output for the next-generation model.

Market Position and Future Prospects

Neubauer emphasized that the M3 Touring is one of the best models in BMW M's portfolio. The decision to continue the touring variant is supported by its global popularity and strong sales figures.

The next-generation M3 Touring is expected to appeal to both traditional combustion engine enthusiasts and customers seeking electric performance vehicles. BMW has not yet announced a launch date for the next-generation M3 Touring. More details about technical specifications and market availability are expected in the coming months.

Also Read: BMW M5 Expected Launch Date, Specification, Features and More

CarBike 360 Says

BMW’s decision to offer the next-generation M3 Touring with both combustion and electric powertrains highlights its balanced approach to performance and electrification. By catering to traditional enthusiasts and future-focused buyers alike, BMW is reinforcing its commitment to innovation without abandoning its roots, making the upcoming M3 Touring one of the most anticipated performance wagons in the evolving automotive landscape.