Why the New BMW M3 G84 Might Leave Manual Lovers in the Dust
The BMW M3 has a storied history as a performance sedan that enthusiasts hold dear. With the G84 version on the horizon, changes are afoot that may redefine the sports car landscape. While BMW has remained tight-lipped about specific details, inside sources suggest that the M3 G84 is not only being worked on, but is also in advanced stages of development on the new G50 3 Series platform. It’s essential to understand what this means for fans of the iconic M3.
The Disappearance of the Six-Speed Manual Transmission
One of the most talked-about changes regarding the new G84 model is the potential discontinuation of the beloved six-speed manual transmission. Over the last decade, the popularity of manuals has rapidly declined, particularly outside the U.S. Despite a strong enthusiasm for manual gearboxes in America—with a significant percentage of G87 M2 sales opting for the classic stick shift—European markets show a drastically different metric. According to reports, the proportion of manual sales in Europe is plummeting, raising doubts about the viability of offering a manual in future models.
The increasing integration of advanced all-wheel-drive systems, such as BMW's M xDrive, complicates the picture further. This system offers immense torque, making it difficult to pair with a manual transmission efficiently. Although modifying gearboxes to handle more torque is theoretically possible, the costs involved are prohibitive. Thus, BMW appears to be leaning strongly toward automatics, capitalizing on their superior performance and ease of use in everyday driving.
Two Versions of the M3: Combustion and Electric
Adding an intriguing layer to the upcoming G84 model is the confirmation that it will be launched alongside the first-ever electric M3, nicknamed ZA0. It's important to note, however, that the electric M3 isn’t expected to debut until after 2027. The G84 M3 will likely boast a potent 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, but speculation remains about whether it will utilize the renowned B58 or higher-performance S58 engine.
As exciting as these advancements sound, their timing adds an interesting twist to the ongoing debate surrounding internal combustion engines (ICE) versus electric vehicles (EVs). BMW recognizes the shifting dynamics in the automotive space, particularly with the electric vehicle market beginning to cool off. As such, maintaining a focus on both ICE and electric versions of the iconic M3 seems to be a prudent decision. Governments are extending their timelines on bans against ICE vehicles, with the UK recently pushing its deadline to 2035, giving BMW the luxury of time in its transition.
Appealing to a Broad Audience
Diversifying the M3 lineup allows BMW to reach out to two distinctly different groups of enthusiasts. For the die-hard fans of performance cars, the internal combustion engine M3 will continue to deliver that visceral experience that comes from a high-revving engine and the tactile feedback of driving a traditional sports sedan. Meanwhile, forward-thinking fans can anticipate the arrival of a groundbreaking electric M3, which promises to usher in a new era of performance with instant torque and innovative technology.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead
In conclusion, while the upcoming G84 M3 is set to change the landscape of BMW's performance division, it does so by carefully navigating the waters between tradition and modernity. The likely elimination of the six-speed manual transmission highlights a broader trend in the automotive industry, where efficiency often trumps nostalgia. However, by opting to keep an ICE variant alongside its electric model, BMW is not only signaling its commitment to performance but is also adapting to the shifting tides of consumer demand. As we look toward the late 2027 or early 2028 debut for the new G84 M3, excitement continues to build for what may become one of the most pivotal iterations of this legendary nameplate.