The Enduring Roar: Why BMW’s Big Engines Are Here to Stay
In the rapidly evolving automotive landscape, where the siren song of electrification grows louder by the day, it’s easy to assume that the era of the large-displacement internal combustion engine (ICE) is drawing to a close. Yet, for enthusiasts and industry observers alike, a crucial question has lingered: will the visceral thrill and impressive power delivery of BMW’s revered inline-six, V8, and even the majestic V12 engines truly fade into memory? As a seasoned professional with a decade navigating the intricacies of automotive engineering and market strategy, I can definitively state that, against conventional wisdom, the answer is a resounding no. BMW’s commitment to these potent powerhouses is not only enduring but strategically vital.
The prevailing narrative, often fueled by increasingly stringent environmental regulations, particularly the looming Euro 7 standard in the European Union, suggests that automakers are being forced to abandon larger engines. This is a legitimate concern, and indeed, the upcoming regulations are causing considerable consternation across the industry. However, BMW, under the astute leadership of its technical strategists, has proactively engineered its next generation of larger engines with these demanding requirements in mind from the outset. This foresight is a significant competitive advantage, ensuring that the inline-six and V8 engines that have defined BMW’s driving dynamics will continue to grace their vehicles, and crucially, so will the exclusive V12, a jewel in the crown of Rolls-Royce.
The departure of the V12 from the core BMW lineup, marked by the M760i Final Edition in 2022, left many wondering if this engine was destined for the annals of automotive history. However, recent insights from within the industry, notably an interview with BMW’s Chief Technology Officer, Joachim Post, shed crucial light on this matter. Post articulated a clear vision: “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.” This statement is a game-changer. It signifies that BMW is not viewing Euro 7 as an insurmountable hurdle, but rather a solvable engineering challenge, one for which they have already laid the groundwork. The investment required to meet these new standards for their larger engines is deemed manageable, a testament to their advanced development capabilities.
What’s particularly intriguing is Post’s suggestion that the next generation of BMW products will feature the V12. The ambiguity surrounding whether this applies solely to Rolls-Royce or could extend to the core BMW brand itself is a subject of considerable speculation. If the twin-turbo, 6.75-liter V12 were to find its way into a BMW model beyond the opulent creations of Goodwood, a compelling logical placement would be within the newly established BMW Alpina. This sub-brand, positioned to rival the ultra-luxury segment typically occupied by Mercedes-Maybach, which still proudly offers a V12 in its S680 S-Class, would be a natural fit. Imagine an Alpina model infused with the effortless torque and unparalleled refinement of BMW’s V12 – a prospect that would undoubtedly excite automotive connoisseurs and high-end performance sedans enthusiasts.
However, it’s important to temper enthusiasm with realism. At present, the “N74” engine, as it’s known internally, may very well remain the exclusive province of Rolls-Royce’s esteemed models: the Ghost, Cullinan, and Phantom. Regardless of its ultimate deployment, the confirmation that six-, eight-, and twelve-cylinder engines still possess a viable future is a deeply reassuring development for a segment of the automotive market that values power, character, and a distinct driving experience. The availability of new V12 engines in luxury vehicles continues to be a hallmark of ultimate automotive craftsmanship.
This commitment to ICE technology extends even to the performance divisions. While BMW has publicly teased an all-electric M3 slated for a 2027 release, demonstrating their embrace of electrification, they are simultaneously planning a gasoline-fueled counterpart. This dual-pronged approach, expected to debut approximately a year after its electric sibling, offers consumers a choice, catering to diverse preferences and market demands. The internal combustion model will reportedly utilize an updated “S58” engine, a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, likely incorporating mild-hybrid technology to seamlessly meet stringent EU regulatory requirements. This demonstrates a pragmatic approach to performance car development, blending cutting-edge electrification with the proven appeal of combustion.
In a related and equally significant development, Post indicated that the M4 may also be granted another lease on life. The current M4’s lifecycle has reportedly been extended to mid-2029, with a successor not expected until the earliest 2030. The BMW CTO’s suggestion that a future M4 would continue to be built upon the standard 4 Series platform implies that a range of powertrain options, including four-cylinder engines, will remain in contention. This flexible manufacturing approach allows BMW to adapt to evolving market needs and regulatory landscapes. The continued existence of models like the BMW M4 competition and its inline-six heart is a testament to the brand’s dedication to its performance heritage.
From my perspective, this strategic embrace of powertrain diversity is a shrewd move. BMW is demonstrating a sophisticated understanding that a one-size-fits-all approach to electrification is not only impractical but potentially detrimental to market share. Rather than casting all their automotive eggs into the solely electric basket, they are wisely recognizing that the adoption of EVs varies significantly by region and consumer preference. Launching a new generation of advanced internal combustion engines ensures that their portfolio will continue to feature ICE-powered models throughout the next decade and, quite possibly, well beyond. This offers consumers choices and caters to diverse driving needs, whether it’s the ultimate driving machine experience or a more environmentally conscious commute.
The renewed commitment to larger ICEs arrives at a particularly opportune moment. Following a notable reversal in the European Union’s proposed outright ban on the sale of new combustion engine cars from 2035, BMW can certainly take solace in this development. The fact that conventional powertrains have been granted a reprieve is a significant win. The reality is that electric vehicles, despite their rapid advancement, still face considerable challenges in fully supplanting gasoline-powered cars in the hearts and minds of consumers. As of 2025, a substantial majority – approximately 82% – of all BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce vehicles sold globally still featured combustion engines. This underscores the enduring appeal and practical necessity of ICE technology for a vast segment of the automotive market.
Ultimately, it is far too early to declare the end of the internal combustion engine, especially for brands that have built their legacy on its power and character. The engineering prowess demonstrated by BMW in adapting their larger engines to meet future emissions standards is a clear indication of their intent to remain at the forefront of automotive innovation, offering a comprehensive range of choices for every discerning driver. The availability of luxury sedans with V8 engines and other powerful configurations continues to be a strong market segment. For those seeking the pinnacle of automotive engineering and performance, the future still holds the promise of a thunderous engine note.
If you’re captivated by the enduring power and sophisticated engineering of premium internal combustion engines, and are curious about the latest advancements in BMW’s lineup, we invite you to explore our curated selection of vehicles or connect with our expert team today. Discover the driving experience that defines automotive excellence.
