BMW’s performance arm is entering one of the busiest phases in its history. According to comments from Frank Van Meel, CEO of BMW M, the next two and a half years will see an aggressive rollout of new and updated M cars. For enthusiasts, the headline is big: around 30 M and M Performance models are planned by 2029. The fine print, though, tells a more complicated story especially for fans who still love a clutch pedal.
A 30-Model Offensive Across Powertrains
BMW M isn’t putting all its chips on one technology. Van Meel confirmed that future models will span internal combustion, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. Inline-six and V8 engines remain central to the brand’s identity, particularly for markets where charging infrastructure is limited or customer readiness for EVs is still evolving.
What this really means is choice. Rather than forcing a single direction, BMW M is hedging its bets—keeping petrol engines alive while steadily expanding electrified options. Expect both “full-fat” M cars and milder M Performance variants to arrive in quick succession, covering sedans, coupes, and SUVs.
Manual Transmissions: On Borrowed Time
Here’s the tough news. While BMW is one of the last premium brands still offering manuals in high-performance cars, their future looks shaky beyond the end of this decade. Van Meel was candid about the challenge: manuals limit torque capability and complicate fuel-efficiency targets.
Models like the BMW M2, where a significant portion of buyers still choose a manual, may continue for a few more years. But post-2030, keeping three pedals alive will be increasingly difficult under tightening emissions and performance demands. BMW isn’t killing the manual out of neglect—it’s being squeezed out by physics, regulations, and customer trends.
An M SUV That Actually Goes Off-Road?
One of the more intriguing revelations is BMW M’s interest in a true off-road performance SUV. Not another road-focused brute like the X5 M or X6 M, but something designed to tackle serious terrain. Van Meel hinted that motorsport inspiration doesn’t stop at circuits—events like the Dakar Rally are part of BMW’s racing DNA too.
This raises the possibility of a high-performance off-road SUV positioned against hardcore machines such as the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. It’s still early talk, but the idea alone signals BMW M’s willingness to stretch its definition of performance.
No CS SUVs, At Least for Now
What won’t happen anytime soon is a CS (Competition Sport) SUV. Van Meel made it clear that CS badges remain reserved for track-focused cars like the M2, M3, and M4. SUVs, by nature, don’t align with the hardcore circuit intent of CS models—and BMW plans to keep it that way.
The Big Picture
BMW M is doubling down on performance in every form—gas, hybrid, electric, and maybe even off-road. Internal combustion engines aren’t disappearing overnight, but the manual gearbox is heading toward a quiet exit. For purists, it’s bittersweet. For everyone else, the future of BMW M looks faster, broader, and more ambitious than ever.
