The BMW M Concept Neue Klasse Is the Most Attractive M Car in Years
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After extensive teasing from BMW M about the performance of its first electric M3, we finally have a clearer look at its design. Introducing the M Concept Neue Klasse, which takes the design elements from the new i3 sedan and iX3 SUV and incorporates them into a sport sedan for the first time.
It's essential to note that while this concept showcases the electric variant of the next-generation M3, there will also be a traditional internal-combustion model. However, don’t dismiss the electric option just yet, as it will feature electric motors on each wheel and a distinctive battery chemistry that enables faster charging and energy recuperation compared to standard EVs. There are many fast electric vehicles available, but there are reasons to believe that the electric M3 will carve out its unique identity among them.
Now, let's turn our attention to the design, which is the main focus of this concept. Initial reactions are favorable. I appreciate the prominently flared fenders and racing-inspired details BMW plans to introduce on future M models, like the squared “track lights” positioned at the bottom of the bumper and the yellow daytime running lights reminiscent of endurance racing. The M Concept Neue Klasse made its debut on Friday afternoon in France ahead of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which feels fitting.
As someone who was never fond of the overly elongated kidneys on the previous M4, I find the wider design that combines the kidneys and lights into a single graphic much more appealing. The large cooling apertures at both the front and rear of this concept, along with the center pillars connecting to the splitter in the front and the diffuser at the back, also enhance the design.
While M cars have consistently displayed aggression in recent years, this concept successfully retains that fierce character without compromising on elegance or veering into the angular bulkiness of the M2. It’s not just visually appealing; I would argue it’s BMW’s most attractive M car in years.
Inside, the cabin boldly emphasizes the M brand’s tri-color theme with Bathurst Blue seats and Berry Red five-point harnesses. The dashboard features what initially appears to be a digital honeycomb pattern on a knit material, which reveals itself upon closer inspection as backlit.
However, there are concerns regarding interior ergonomics, as BMW has relocated most buttons that would typically be on the dashboard or center console to the steering wheel, making them capacitive rather than traditional physical buttons. While steering wheel controls are useful, the numerous functions on this one are somewhat overwhelming. The digital instrument cluster displays are positioned just below the windshield, similar to other Neue Klasse models. It looks impressive in photos, but I can't comment on its practicality just yet.
With the regular i3 set to arrive at U.S. dealerships next year, this glimpse at the M version appears to be a safe bet for production. It will be fascinating to see how the gas-powered variant might differ from it. With Le Mans approaching this weekend, I'm already envisioning the inevitable GT3 version.
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The BMW M Concept Neue Klasse Is the Most Attractive M Car in Years
BMW has offered us a glimpse of what the electric M3 will look like, and it’s hitting all the right notes.