The Enduring Roar: Why BMW and Rolls-Royce Are Doubling Down on Big Engines in 2025 and Beyond
As an industry veteran with a decade of experience navigating the ever-shifting automotive landscape, I’ve witnessed firsthand the seismic tremors caused by evolving emissions regulations. The impending Euro 7 standards, particularly within the European Union, have cast a long shadow over the future of large-displacement internal combustion engines (ICE). For a time, it seemed inevitable that the era of the V8 and, dare I say, the V12, was drawing to a close. However, contrary to widespread speculation, BMW Group is strategically charting a different course. Far from abandoning its heritage of powerful, visceral engines, the Bavarian powerhouse, along with its ultra-luxury affiliate Rolls-Royce, is not only committed to keeping these titans alive but is actively engineering them to meet the stringent demands of the coming years. This commitment to BMW V12 engines, V8 engine reliability, and inline-six performance is a testament to a nuanced understanding of market realities and technological advancement.
The narrative surrounding the demise of large ICE units has been amplified by the aggressive push towards electrification. While BMW is undeniably investing heavily in its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio – evidenced by the upcoming electric M3 teased for a 2027 release – the company’s Chief Technology Officer, Joachim Post, has offered a crucial counterpoint. In a candid discussion with Autocar, Post revealed that BMW’s next-generation engine architectures have been meticulously designed from the ground up with future, more demanding regulations in mind. This proactive approach means that the beloved BMW inline-six, the potent BMW V8, and crucially, the opulent Rolls-Royce V12, are not simply being extended in their current forms. Instead, they are being engineered for longevity, ensuring their presence in the market well into the next decade.
Post’s assertion that “we can fulfil 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” speaks volumes. This suggests that the investment required to bring existing larger engines into compliance is significantly less than the cost of completely redesigning or abandoning them. This pragmatic approach, particularly concerning powerful luxury car engines, is a significant advantage for BMW Group, allowing them to maintain a diverse powertrain offering without disproportionately inflating development costs.
Perhaps the most electrifying revelation from Post’s interview is the potential return of the V12 to the core BMW brand. While the V12 has remained the exclusive domain of Rolls-Royce since BMW ceased production of its twelve-cylinder M760i Final Edition in 2022, Post alluded to its inclusion in “next generation of BMW products.” This statement, while intentionally vague, has ignited considerable speculation within the automotive enthusiast community and among performance car enthusiasts.
The implications are profound. A V12 engine, known for its unparalleled smoothness, torque, and aural presence, would be a natural fit for performance-oriented sub-brands. The newly established BMW Alpina, positioned to challenge the likes of Mercedes-Maybach, represents a prime candidate. Mercedes-Maybach, after all, continues to offer a V12 in its S-Class S680, a direct competitor to what a V12-powered BMW Alpina could represent. Imagine the exquisite symphony of a twin-turbocharged V12 propelling a bespoke Alpina model, rivaling the effortless grandeur of its German counterpart. While concrete details remain elusive, the potential for a BMW V12 car beyond the Rolls-Royce marque is an exciting prospect for those who appreciate automotive excellence.
However, it’s important to temper expectations. The current “N74” engine, the 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 that graces the Rolls-Royce Ghost, Cullinan, and Phantom, might indeed remain exclusive to the Goodwood-based brand. Even if this proves to be the case, the confirmation that six-, eight-, and twelve-cylinder engines still have a viable future is, in itself, a significant piece of good news for enthusiasts and for the diversity of the automotive market. The emphasis remains on the future of V8 engines and the continued relevance of multi-cylinder configurations.
Beyond the V12, BMW’s commitment to ICE extends to its core performance models. The eagerly anticipated electric M3, slated for a 2027 release, will be complemented by a gasoline-fueled counterpart, expected to debut roughly a year later. This dual-pronged approach, offering both electric and internal combustion options for its halo M models, demonstrates BMW’s understanding that EV adoption is not uniform across all demographics or geographic regions. The ICE M3 is anticipated to utilize an updated version of the “S58” twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine, likely incorporating mild-hybrid technology to further enhance efficiency and meet regulatory requirements. This signals a continued evolution of the BMW M3 engine technology, integrating contemporary solutions with proven performance.
In a related development, Post suggested that the M4 may also be granted another generation. The current model’s lifecycle has reportedly been extended to mid-2029, pushing its replacement to 2030 at the earliest. The prospect of a new M4, built upon the foundation of a regular 4 Series, implies the continued presence of four-cylinder engines within the broader BMW lineup, catering to a different segment of the market. This reinforces the overarching strategy of offering a diverse range of powertrains.
From my perspective as an industry observer, BMW’s strategic decision to invest in and develop its larger ICE engines is a masterstroke of pragmatic foresight. In an era fixated on a singular EV future, BMW is wisely recognizing that automotive powertrain diversity is not a relic of the past but a necessity for sustained success. The company has long championed a multi-powertrain philosophy, acknowledging the varying rates of EV adoption across different global markets. By launching a new generation of engines, BMW is ensuring that compelling ICE-powered vehicles will continue to be available throughout the next decade and, quite possibly, beyond. This commitment to next-generation engine technology ensures that the passion for driving remains accessible.
This renewed commitment to large ICEs arrives at a particularly opportune moment. The European Union’s recent reversal of the outright sales ban on new combustion engine cars from 2035 has undoubtedly provided a welcome reprieve for automakers like BMW. The ability to continue selling and developing ICE vehicles for longer than initially anticipated is a significant boost, particularly for brands that have cultivated a strong identity around their ICE offerings. The reality is that, despite the rapid advancements in EV technology, the complete replacement of gasoline cars in consumer preference is still a distant prospect. In 2025, a substantial 82 percent of all BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce vehicles sold globally still featured combustion engines. This figure underscores the continued demand for and reliance on ICE technology.
The notion that it is simply “too early to say goodbye to ICE” is not just a sentiment; it’s a data-driven reality. For enthusiasts seeking the thrill of a powerful V8 sports car, the refined elegance of a V12 limousine, or the engaging dynamics of an inline-six performance coupe, the future, thanks to BMW’s strategic vision, remains bright. The ongoing development of high-performance engines and the commitment to providing a spectrum of choices cater to a broad range of consumer desires and practical needs. This intelligent approach to powertrain development ensures that the joy of driving, in all its forms, will continue to be a cornerstone of the automotive experience.
For those who cherish the visceral connection between driver, machine, and the open road, the news from BMW is exceptionally encouraging. The commitment to engineering excellence in BMW’s engine lineup and the unwavering dedication to the Rolls-Royce V12 mean that the distinctive roar of a powerful engine will continue to resonate for years to come. Instead of solely focusing on an electrified horizon, BMW is demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of market dynamics and consumer desires, ensuring that the internal combustion engine, particularly its larger and more potent iterations, has a significant and exciting future.
If you’re a driver who appreciates the nuanced performance and the distinct character that only a larger displacement engine can provide, the developments at BMW and Rolls-Royce offer compelling reasons to stay engaged with the automotive world. Explore the latest offerings and consider how these enduring powertrains can enhance your driving experience. Your next unforgettable journey might just be powered by an engine that defies expectations.
