BMW M3 touring to return on neue klasse platform… “Demand Was too strong to ignore” Says brand insider

BMW is preparing to expand its performance lineup with the next-generation M3 Touring, which will be built on the brand’s upcoming Neue Klasse platform the same architecture that will underpin the next-generation M3 sedan.

According to Sylvia Neubauer, Head of Customer, Brand and Sales for BMW M, the decision to continue the performance estate is driven largely by the strong global response to the current-generation model, the G81 M3 Touring.

The M3 Touring, first introduced in June 2022, marked a historic moment for BMW M as its first-ever production estate. Its success has now paved the way for a second-generation model, strengthening BMW’s commitment to niche but high-demand performance segments.

Strong Global Demand Drives Decision

Neubauer explained that while markets like the United States traditionally lean toward SUVs and larger vehicles, the absence of a standard 3 Series Touring has not stopped interest in the performance-focused variant. In fact, BMW dealers in the region reportedly welcomed the M3 Touring, with demand described as “organic and growing”.

This unexpected enthusiasm has encouraged BMW to consider increased production volumes for the upcoming generation, ensuring supply can better match global interest.

China Market: A Different Story

In contrast, the situation in China is more restrained. Estate models have historically struggled to gain mainstream traction there. As a result, BMW currently offers only the M3 Touring, without a standard 3 Series Touring option.

Despite this, the high-performance wagon has managed to carve out a niche lifestyle appeal, achieving respectable success among enthusiasts who value performance combined with practicality.

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Next-Gen M3 Touring: ICE + EV Possibilities

BMW has already confirmed that the upcoming M3 sedan will be offered with both internal combustion engine (ICE) and fully electric (EV) variants. This strongly suggests that the M3 Touring will follow the same dual-path strategy.

The electric version is expected to feature a battery capacity of at least 100 kWh and an advanced 800V architecture, positioning it among the most technologically advanced performance estates in the world.

BMW has also hinted at simulated gear shifts and synthetic sound profiles for the electric M3 lineup, a feature that could extend to the Touring version as well.

Performance Expectations Remain High

The current sixth-generation M3 Touring produces around 530 hp and 650 Nm, powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six engine. While BMW is unlikely to dramatically alter this combustion setup for the next generation, refinements in efficiency and performance tuning are expected.

The real transformation, however, is likely to come from the electric variant, which could redefine what a performance estate can deliver in the era of electrification.