BMW M3 EV to match ICE pricing: report

BMW is set to launch its first all-electric M3 alongside a next-generation petrol version soon, with both models expected to be priced “in the same ballpark” despite vastly different powertrain technologies.

According to a report published by UK outlet Autocar, the pricing strategy will allow ICE buyers the opportunity to purchase an M3 with a familiar turbo-petrol driveline while at the same time encouraging those keen on sampling EV power the chance to do just that – and without any price penalty.

“The good news is that from a pricing perspective, they are in the same ballpark,” said BMW M sales boss Sylvia Neubauer.

“There will be functional differences … but when you look at them, you will see that they are twins.”

BMW’s strategy reflects a broader industry trend toward multi-powertrain offerings, particularly in performance segments where EV adoption remains uneven.

Ms Neubauer acknowledged that not all traditional M buyers will be ready to switch to electric, but said the brand is confident the EV’s performance credentials will win over at least part of its customer base.

“Obviously we will not convince 100 per cent (of buyers), but out of 100 people that try it, we will be able to convince some,” she added.

To support the transition, BMW plans to run drive programs allowing customers to experience the EV firsthand.

While BMW M has yet to confirm final specifications for its electric M3, Ms Neubauer insists the vehicle will retain the core attributes of its famed sports nameplate.

“It’s always a BMW M – the driving experience must be true, whether you decide on EV or ICE (power),” she said noting that both models will be designated as an M3.

“It is not only about acceleration and power, but also about driveability, manoeuvrability, and that level of trust and connection between the driver, car and road,” she added.

Due in 2027, the electric M3 will spearhead BMW M’s transition into high-performance EVs and will feature a quad-motor setup producing close to 746kW and an unknown amount of torque driving all four wheels.

The EV will be underpinned by BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture, while the turbocharged six-cylinder petrol M3 – potentially outputting 400kW/650Nm and also with AWD – will continue on an updated version of the current CLAR platform.

BMW says the electric M3’s quad-motor drive system will deliver advanced torque vectoring and handling characteristics beyond what is possible with traditional drivetrains, characteristics likely to appeal to buyers chasing the latest in high-performance technology from the famed German brand.

With near-identical positioning and pricing, the twin approach likely makes the M3 a test case for how performance brands can navigate the transition to electrification without alienating core customers.