A New Chapter for BMW M
The G87 BMW M2 has just made its market debut, but it seems to have left behind a legacy of competition badges and manual transmissions. Indeed, no all-wheel drive system in sight, although rumours persist. Worse still, the “Competition” badge is set to disappear, and this does not only concern the G90 M5. In a recent interview, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel confirmed that future M models will no longer carry this badge, as they will essentially be competition models from the outset. Why? Because, according to him, over 80% of customers were already opting for the Competition version. “So, we decided to make this the standard model,” he stated. This is news that could bring tears to the eyes of manual transmission enthusiasts.
Worrying News for Three-Pedal Enthusiasts?
Although van Meel did not provide details on future models, it is clear that we are witnessing the end of an era for manual transmissions. With the G80 M3 and G82 M4, the non-Competition variants were the only ones to offer the option of shifting gears manually. This is because the power of the Competition models was simply too high for the manual transmission to keep up. This is also why the M2 CS cannot be equipped with a manual gearbox.
BMW Manual Transmissions Are Set to Become Rare (and Therefore Expensive)
A separate report from BMW Blog revealed that the Bavarian brand may continue to introduce cars with manual transmissions, but they will be very exclusive. Sylvia Neubauer, Vice President of BMW M for Customer, Brand and Sales, stated: “For the current range, we still have ideas in mind to bring more manuals to certain markets in limited quantities, as we know there are manual transmission enthusiasts.” In summary, if the new M models are competition models without the badge, the only way to access a manual transmission may be through CS models, and even then, only in very small quantities. This means that the most enthusiast-focused BMWs are likely to become very expensive. It seems the situation is akin to Porsche, where manuals are becoming collector’s items.
The Dilemma for Driving Enthusiasts
Imagine a world where the only transmission options are automatic gearboxes, where the joy of shifting gears is replaced by a series of buttons. It’s a bit like replacing a good old vinyl record with music streaming: convenient, but where’s the charm? Driving purists find themselves in a tricky situation, caught between modern technology and their desire to feel every gear change. But fear not, dear friends, there are still a few models to explore, even if their numbers are dwindling faster than a full tank of petrol in an M5.
BMW M Rivals: Who Can Still Compete?
With this evolution, it is interesting to ponder who can still compete with BMW in the sports car arena. Brands like Audi and Mercedes-Benz, with their S and AMG model ranges, continue to attract crowds. However, as BMW abandons the Competition badge, these rivals may well be facing a niche market, where driving enthusiasts are desperately seeking alternatives. To give you an idea, here are a few models to watch:
- Audi RS5 – 450 hp (331 kW), 600 Nm
- Mercedes-AMG C63 – 476 hp (350 kW), 650 Nm
- Porsche 718 Cayman GTS – 400 hp (294 kW), 420 Nm
These models, although differing in philosophy, share a common trait: they still offer that connection between the driver and the machine. But for how much longer?
Pricing and Availability: The Cost of Passion
With the scarcity of manual transmissions and competition models, it is likely that BMW M prices will soar. Models such as the M3 and M4, which were once accessible, may soon become luxury items, reserved for an elite group of thrill-seekers. If you are considering purchasing an M, be prepared to shell out a hefty sum. Prices could reach dizzying heights, especially for models equipped with the coveted manual gearbox.
Verdict: An Uncertain Future for Purists
In summary, the future of BMW’s M models seems to be heading towards standardisation, where every car will be a competition version without a badge. For enthusiasts seeking authentic thrills, this could be a hard blow. Manuals are becoming an endangered species, and those who still wish to experience manual driving will need to prepare to spend a fortune. So, if you are a BMW enthusiast, it may be time to pull out your cheque book and rush for the latest model before it’s too late. Because after all, who knows what the future holds?
