As an owner of the current generation (F80) BMW M3, naturally I’m keeping an eye on BMW’s development for the much anticipated redesign. Recent speculation teased by Car Magazine (link below) suggests that BMW may reveal their new M3 as a 2020 model (designated internally as the G80) in multiple formats.
Standard M3/M4
TLDR: 474 HP, AWD (with a selectable RWD drive mode), and automatic only (ZF 8 Speed)
One anticipated model will be the “standard” M3 and M4. In this case, “standard” may actually mean faster and more capable depending on who you ask, but we’ll get to that later. Similar to the drivetrain of the newest BMW M5, we may see this variant of the new M3 available in an AWD format… but through a driver selectable setting it can be put in RWD mode as well - though you may have to give up traction control to use this setting. It also appears that this version of the M3 will depart from its beloved DCT (dual clutch) transmission for the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission which is causing quite the stir in enthusiast community. While the DCT certainly offers lightening fast shifts during high-RPM driving, many claim it’s a bit too harsh at slow speeds or during “normal” driving conditions. This is where the ZF automatic sets itself apart. High RPM shifts are still incredibly fast (the ever so slightly slower shift speed is probably not discernible by most) and the more standard torque converter allows daily-driving to be comfortable and smooth. Best of both worlds? Depends on who you ask!
“Pure” M3/M4
TLDR: 454 HP, RWD, 6 speed manual transmission
The next anticipated model, the so-called “Pure” edition, will be a slightly less powerful M3 but equipped with the enthusiast-loving manual transmission, and a RWD powertrain. This is huge news for some, since the standard 3-series models are no longer available with a manual transmission here in the US. Not to mention, none of the major M3 competitors (MB C63/S, Alpha Giulia, Audi RS5) offer a manual transmission option. However, there are others that are disappointed that BMW is only offering this manual gearbox on a “de-tuned” version of the M3. The thought is that BMW’s existing manual gearbox is not designed or capable of handling much more HP without having reliability concerns. And since the new vehicle take-rate on manual transmissions is very low, there isn’t a strong business case to be made to develop a brand new manual platform that can handle more power. Early reports suggest the “Pure” edition may have dedicated exterior cosmetics, paint options, and interior touches that attempt to increase excitement for this model.
Personally, I think this is all awesome news. I am a manual transmission guy. I am much less concerned about lap time seconds (possibly tenths of seconds), maximum HP, etc., and I’m more interested in driving engagement and driving experience. The latter of which appears to be available in the M3 “pure.” However, those that are not interested in rowing their owns gears, or those that are into track times, AWD benefits, or simply owning the most HP possible, they will be very excited about the new “standard” M3 platform which will certainly be all of those things. Can’t wait to learn more.
For more on BMW’s future M lineup, check out this article from Car Magazine.