The Enduring Roar: Why BMW’s Powerful Combustion Engines Are Here to Stay
For enthusiasts and industry watchers alike, the automotive landscape has felt like a relentless march toward electrification. The whispers of internal combustion engine (ICE) obsolescence have grown to a roar, fueled by increasingly stringent emissions regulations and ambitious decarbonization goals. Yet, as we stand on the cusp of 2025, a surprising and deeply reassuring trend is emerging from one of the world’s most respected automotive giants: BMW. Far from consigning their legendary large-displacement engines to the history books, BMW is not only committed to their continued development but is actively engineering them to meet and exceed future environmental standards. This isn’t just about maintaining a diverse product portfolio; it’s a strategic embrace of nuanced customer preferences and technological evolution, ensuring the visceral thrill of powerful engines remains a cornerstone of the driving experience for years to come.
As an automotive industry veteran with a decade of hands-on experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the seismic shifts driven by environmental mandates. The European Union’s Euro 7 standard, in particular, has sent shivers through the industry, posing significant challenges for automakers reliant on larger, more powerful combustion units. However, BMW, under the astute leadership of its technical strategists, has approached this challenge not as an insurmountable hurdle, but as an opportunity to innovate. Their proactive engineering philosophy, focused on designing next-generation engines with future regulatory requirements in mind from the outset, has yielded remarkable results.
A Deeper Dive into BMW’s ICE Strategy
The core of this strategy lies in the remarkable resilience and adaptability of BMW’s iconic inline-six and V8 engines. These powertrains have long been synonymous with refined performance, smooth delivery, and exhilarating acceleration, forming the heart of many beloved BMW models. The good news for enthusiasts is that these engines are not just surviving; they are evolving. BMW’s Chief Technology Officer, Joachim Post, has openly discussed the company’s efforts in an interview with Autocar, highlighting the significant advantage their forward-thinking approach provides.
“We can fulfill Euro 7 with some optimization in the exhaust system – with things like the catalysts,” Post explained, underscoring that the investment required to bring these engines into compliance is far less daunting than for those who were less prepared. This implies a deep understanding of catalytic converter technology, exhaust gas recirculation systems, and precise fuel injection management, all critical components in reducing emissions. This is not merely about ticking boxes; it’s about sophisticated engineering that allows for the preservation of performance characteristics while adhering to environmental consciousness. This is a crucial point for premium automotive brands and those seeking high-performance car engines.
The Revered V12: A Testament to Uncompromised Luxury
Perhaps the most striking revelation from BMW’s strategic outlook is the continued life of the V12 engine, a powerplant that has become almost mythical in its rarity. While BMW ceased production of its V12-powered passenger cars for the core brand with the M760i Final Edition in 2022, the luxurious twelve-cylinder marvel will persist. This commitment is primarily directed towards the ultra-luxury segment, most notably under the hood of Rolls-Royce vehicles.
The N74 engine, a twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter behemoth, is the heart and soul of Rolls-Royce’s current lineup, gracing models like the Ghost, Cullinan, and Phantom. Its smooth, effortless power delivery and near-silent operation are integral to the unparalleled opulent experience that defines the Rolls-Royce brand. For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of automotive refinement and luxury vehicle engines, the V12 remains the undisputed champion.
The question remains whether the V12 might find its way into any core BMW models or even sister brands. There’s speculation, and it’s a tantalizing prospect for performance aficionados, that the N74 could be a perfect fit for the newly established BMW Alpina sub-brand. Alpina, positioned as a bridge between BMW’s sporty ethos and ultra-luxury, often targets vehicles that compete with Mercedes-Maybach. The Maybach S680, for instance, still proudly features a V12. Such a move would undoubtedly inject an incredible level of prestige and power into Alpina’s offerings, potentially creating an even more compelling alternative in the ultra-luxury sedan market and high-end automotive segments.
However, it’s important to temper expectations with current official statements. For now, the N74 is confirmed to remain exclusive to Rolls-Royce’s esteemed models. Nevertheless, the very assurance that six-, eight-, and twelve-cylinder engines still have a viable future is a powerful statement of intent from BMW, especially in an era where many manufacturers are rapidly phasing out larger ICEs. This is a significant factor for buyers in the luxury car market, looking for powerful V8 cars or the ultimate in V12 engine performance.
The Performance Spectrum: From M Cars to Mild Hybrids
Beyond the realm of ultra-luxury, BMW’s commitment to ICE extends to its performance-oriented M division and mainstream models. While the brand has indeed teased an all-electric M3, set for a 2027 release, they are simultaneously planning a gasoline-fueled counterpart. This dual-pronged approach is a masterclass in catering to diverse customer needs and regional market realities. The internal combustion M3 is expected to arrive approximately a year after its electric sibling, offering enthusiasts the choice between cutting-edge electric performance and the familiar, visceral thrill of a high-revving engine.
The gasoline-powered M3 will likely be powered by an updated version of the acclaimed “S58” engine – BMW’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. To meet evolving emissions standards and enhance efficiency, this powerplant is expected to incorporate mild-hybrid technology. This integration of electric assistance with the ICE offers a compelling blend of improved responsiveness, optimized fuel economy, and reduced emissions, without sacrificing the characteristic BMW M driving dynamics. This is particularly relevant for buyers in markets like New York City car sales or Los Angeles luxury car dealerships, where a balance of performance and efficiency is increasingly sought after.
In a related development, it’s also suggested that the iconic M4 may see another generation. Reports indicate that the current M4’s lifecycle has been extended, with a replacement potentially not arriving until 2030. This implies that BMW’s engineering teams are actively working on ensuring its powertrain remains competitive and compliant. The suggestion that a future M4 would continue to be built on the standard 4 Series platform also points to the continued presence of four-cylinder engines within BMW’s broader product strategy, underscoring a comprehensive approach to powertrain development across their entire range. This diversity is a key selling point for performance sedans and coupe car models.
A Pragmatic Vision for the Future of Driving
BMW’s strategy of maintaining a robust ICE lineup alongside its burgeoning EV offerings is not a sign of hesitancy, but rather a demonstration of astute market understanding and pragmatic foresight. In an automotive world increasingly polarized by the EV versus ICE debate, BMW is intelligently choosing a middle path, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all electrification strategy is neither feasible nor desirable for all markets and consumer segments.
The decision to launch a new generation of ICE engines, particularly the larger displacement ones, signifies a clear intention to provide compelling gasoline-powered options throughout the next decade and potentially beyond. This commitment comes at a pivotal moment, especially following the European Union’s recent adjustments regarding the outright sales ban on new combustion engine cars from 2035. While the push towards electrification remains, the recent revisions offer a much-needed reprieve and acknowledge the continued demand for and viability of ICE technology.
The statistics speak volumes. In 2025, a significant majority – approximately 82 percent – of all BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce vehicles sold globally were still equipped with combustion engines. This figure highlights the enduring preference for ICE vehicles among a substantial portion of their customer base. To prematurely abandon this segment would be a missed opportunity and a disservice to loyal customers. This makes used BMW V8 models and new inline-six cars highly relevant in the current market.
From an industry expert’s perspective, BMW’s approach is not just smart; it’s essential for sustainable growth. It acknowledges that EV adoption rates vary significantly by region, influenced by infrastructure development, charging availability, consumer cost of ownership, and cultural preferences. By offering a comprehensive range of powertrains, BMW can cater to these diverse needs, ensuring consistent sales and brand loyalty across different markets. This multi-powertrain strategy is particularly valuable for car dealerships and auto financing providers, as it broadens the appeal and accessibility of their offerings.
The technological advancements in ICE are also often underestimated. Modern combustion engines, especially when paired with mild-hybrid systems, are remarkably efficient and produce significantly lower emissions than their predecessors. BMW’s investment in optimizing these powertrains, rather than simply phasing them out, is a testament to their belief in the continued evolution of this technology. This positions them favorably for buyers seeking fuel-efficient performance cars or environmentally conscious engines.
Ultimately, the notion that it’s time to bid farewell to the internal combustion engine is premature. The sheer engineering prowess and passion that BMW invests in its engines – from the refined inline-six to the thunderous V8 and the majestic V12 – are qualities that resonate deeply with driving enthusiasts. The company’s strategic decision to keep these powerful engines alive and evolving is a victory for performance, a nod to luxury, and a pragmatic embrace of a diverse automotive future. For those who appreciate the symphony of a finely tuned engine and the responsive surge of power, BMW’s commitment offers a powerful reason to celebrate and look forward to what’s next on the open road.
Whether you’re a dedicated BMW enthusiast, a discerning luxury car buyer, or simply someone who appreciates the art of automotive engineering, BMW’s continued dedication to its powerful combustion engines offers compelling reasons to explore their offerings. We invite you to visit your local BMW dealership or connect with our expert sales team to discover the exhilarating range of vehicles that perfectly blend thrilling performance with cutting-edge technology, ensuring your driving passion can continue to thrive.
