01:57 16-01-2026

BMW continues large engine strategy with V8s and V12s for future models

BMW has made it clear that the era of large internal combustion engines is far from over. Despite tightening environmental regulations in Europe, the company plans to keep inline six-cylinder engines, V8s, and even V12s in its lineup.

Adapting Engines to the Euro 7 Standard

According to BMW's technical director Joachim Post, the new generation of engines was designed from the start to meet the Euro 7 standard. Key modifications focus on the exhaust system and catalysts, allowing compliance without a radical redesign. This gives BMW an advantage over competitors, for whom the transition could prove much more costly.

The V12 and Rolls-Royce's Role

Even the twelve-cylinder engine remains part of the group's strategy. This primarily refers to the 6.75-liter V12, which continues to be used in Rolls-Royce Ghost, Cullinan, and Phantom models.

BMW officially stopped producing its own V12s in 2022, but it's not ruled out that this engine could find applications beyond the Rolls-Royce brand in the future, such as in Alpina projects.

Future M Models and Balancing with Electrification

BMW has confirmed that the next M3 will feature not only a fully electric version but also an internal combustion engine option. The gasoline variant will be equipped with an upgraded 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder S58 engine with a mild hybrid system. A similar approach is being considered for the future M4, whose lifecycle could extend until the end of the decade.

BMW is betting on a diverse range of powertrains and isn't rushing to abandon classic engines. Given that in 2025, over 80% of BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce vehicles were still sold with internal combustion engines, the strategy of preserving large engines appears pragmatic and aligned with real customer preferences.