The Enduring Roar: Why BMW’s Big Engines, Including the V12, Are Here to Stay
For a decade now, the automotive landscape has been in a state of flux, driven by the accelerating shift towards electrification and increasingly stringent emissions standards. Many have predicted the imminent demise of the large-displacement internal combustion engine, particularly in the premium and ultra-luxury segments. However, as an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the intricacies of automotive engineering and market strategy, I can confidently state that this narrative is far from complete. BMW, a company renowned for its engineering prowess and its ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, is proving this point emphatically. Their commitment to developing and maintaining BMW large engines, including the legendary V12, is not just a nod to heritage, but a strategically sound decision for the coming years.
The whispers of the BMW inline-six engine and the potent BMW V8 engine continuing their evolution have been circulating, but the most compelling news comes from the very apex of BMW’s luxury offerings: Rolls-Royce. For years, the twelve-cylinder powerhouse has been the silent, yet thunderous, heart of these ultra-exclusive machines. The prospect of this magnificent Rolls-Royce V12 engine being phased out seemed almost inevitable given the global push towards greener alternatives. Yet, recent insights from within BMW suggest a different, far more exciting future.
The crux of this story lies in BMW’s proactive approach to future regulations, most notably the increasingly demanding Euro 7 standards. These regulations, particularly within the European Union, have presented significant engineering challenges for automakers reliant on large displacement engines. The
Joachim Post, revealed in an interview with Autocar that their next-generation engines have been designed from the ground up with these future demands in mind. This foresight has positioned them advantageously.
“We can fulfill Euro 7 with some optimization in the exhaust system – with things like the catalysts – so that’s why we have a big advantage in that Euro 7 is not that high an investment for us,” Post explained. This statement is crucial. It signifies that BMW isn’t merely adapting existing technologies; they are innovating in ways that allow their larger engines to remain viable without incurring prohibitive development costs. This is particularly relevant for manufacturers like BMW, who understand that a significant portion of their customer base, especially in key luxury markets, still values the performance, refinement, and unique character that only a larger engine can provide.
This commitment extends beyond mere compliance. Post hinted that the V12, the very engine many believed was on its last legs, will feature in future BMW products. The ambiguity here is tantalizing: “Whether he was referring strictly to Rolls-Royce models or those from the core BMW brand as well is unclear.” For years, the V12 was absent from the core BMW lineup, with the M760i Final Edition marking the end of an era in 2022. The potential return of a V12 within the main BMW brand is a significant development, especially considering the emergence of sub-brands targeting the ultra-luxury space.
One prime candidate for such a powerplant could be the newly solidified BMW Alpina. Positioned above the standard BMW range and directly challenging rivals like Mercedes-Maybach, Alpina has always been synonymous with potent, refined performance. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class S680, for instance, continues to offer a V12, making a comparable offering from Alpina a logical strategic move. While nothing is official, the prospect of the “N74” engine, as it’s known, finding its way into an Alpina model, or even other high-performance BMW variants, adds a layer of excitement to the future of BMW performance engines.
However, it’s important to note that the “N74” engine has, for now, been the exclusive preserve of Rolls-Royce, powering their Ghost, Cullinan, and Phantom models. The reassurance that these six-, eight-, and twelve-cylinder engines are not just surviving but are engineered for the future provides significant comfort to enthusiasts and discerning buyers alike. This is especially true when considering the evolving market for premium gasoline cars and the enduring appeal of their sophisticated powertrains.
The conversation around BMW’s powertrain strategy wouldn’t be complete without addressing the concurrent electrification efforts. The recent tease of an all-electric M3, slated for a 2027 release, underscores BMW’s dedication to a multi-pronged approach. Intriguingly, this electric M3 will be accompanied by a gasoline-fueled counterpart, expected to arrive roughly a year later. This dual-powertrain strategy exemplifies BMW’s nuanced understanding of market adoption rates for electric vehicles, which can vary significantly by region and consumer preference. The ICE model will likely utilize an updated version of the “S58,” the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine, enhanced with mild-hybrid technology to ensure compliance with evolving regulations. This blend of cutting-edge electrification and refined internal combustion is a hallmark of BMW’s forward-thinking approach to new BMW models.
Furthermore, the iconic M4 may also see a new generation. Reports suggest its current life cycle has been extended, with a replacement potentially arriving around 2030. This extension, coupled with the suggestion that a new M4 would continue to be built on the 4 Series platform, implies the ongoing presence of four-cylinder engines within BMW’s broader portfolio. This reinforces the idea that BMW isn’t abandoning any segment but is strategically planning for diverse powertrain options across its entire range, catering to a wide spectrum of customer needs and preferences for luxury sedans and sports cars.
From my perspective, having witnessed the industry’s trajectory for the past decade, BMW’s strategy is not merely about maintaining tradition; it’s about intelligent diversification. Rather than placing all their bets on a single technological horse, they are prudently hedging their bets. Their long-held advocacy for offering multiple powertrains, recognizing the heterogeneous adoption of EVs across different markets, is proving to be a masterstroke. The decision to invest in a new generation of engines means that ICE-powered vehicles will remain a cornerstone of their offering throughout the next decade, and quite possibly beyond. This is a vital consideration for consumers looking at performance SUVs and other high-demand segments where the driving experience is intrinsically linked to engine character.
This renewed commitment to larger internal combustion engines arrives at a particularly opportune moment. The European Union’s recent reversal on an outright sales ban for new combustion engine cars from 2035 has provided a significant reprieve for automakers. BMW, among others, is undoubtedly pleased that conventional powertrains have received a stay of execution. The reality is that electric vehicles, despite their rapid advancements, still have a considerable journey ahead before they fully supplant gasoline cars in the preferences of a vast number of consumers. In 2025, a substantial majority of BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce vehicles sold globally still featured combustion engines. This data point is not a sign of stagnation, but a clear indicator of current market dynamics and consumer behavior in the global automotive market.
The truth is, it’s simply too soon to bid farewell to the internal combustion engine, especially for a brand that has cultivated such a rich heritage and loyal following based on its engineering excellence. For those in search of the ultimate driving machine, whether it’s the exhilarating surge of a twin-turbo V8 or the smooth, imperious power delivery of a V12, BMW’s commitment ensures these experiences will continue to be available. The availability of high-performance engines remains a critical factor for many buyers, and BMW’s strategic foresight ensures they won’t be disappointed. This is particularly relevant for markets like the United States, where large displacement engines and the performance they offer have always held a special place. If you’re in California or Texas, for example, the demand for powerful, refined engines remains exceptionally high, and BMW’s strategy directly addresses these regional preferences for luxury cars for sale.
In conclusion, the future of BMW’s larger engines, including the celebrated V12, is remarkably bright. Their proactive engineering, strategic market understanding, and commitment to diverse powertrain options position them exceptionally well for the years ahead. This ensures that the roar of the engine, the intricate dance of gears, and the visceral connection between driver and machine will remain an integral part of the BMW experience.
Are you ready to experience the enduring power and engineering excellence of BMW’s latest advancements? Explore the current BMW lineup or contact your local BMW dealership to discuss the future of performance driving.
