BMW's forthcoming electric M3 ranks among the most eagerly awaited vehicles from the German brand in recent years, whether one welcomes fresh technology or laments change. Prior sightings occurred during winter testing and on the Nurburgring, yet heavy camouflage always obscured details. The M Concept Neue Klasse, revealed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, now supplies the clearest indication yet of the 1000-horsepower electric model's appearance and signals a fresh styling approach for future M cars. In short, the result impresses.

The concept delivers more than styling cues alone. Earlier leaked images of the electric M3 front end already suggested strong resemblance, and the overall shape aligns closely enough to indicate that production versions will mirror the concept aside from minor elements such as side mirrors. While tastes vary, the design appears more cohesive than today's M3 and M4. The shark-nose treatment that succeeds on the regular i3 translates effectively here as well.

On the outside

BMW emphasizes that performance dictates every exterior detail on the M Concept Neue Klasse. The sedan adopts the wide-shouldered stance typical of recent M models, with pronounced wheel arches that evoke a contemporary interpretation of classic proportions, particularly striking in the custom Monza Red finish.

A distinctive hood vent integrates into the front V-shape, an element already visible in leaked production-car photos. Beneath it sit the bold shark nose, kidney grilles, and new lighting units featuring yellow LEDs that BMW intends as a recurring M signature referencing GT racing and the M Hybrid V8 Le Mans entry.

Another novel feature is the so-called trimaran-style bumper, whose multi-hull inspiration creates a distinctive lower fascia. Flanking elements called Track Lights function similarly to auxiliary lamps while adding visual balance. The same motifs repeat at the rear alongside a prominent diffuser, elongated taillights, and a split ducktail spoiler engineered for aerodynamic gains and added rear downforce.

On the inside

Although exterior leaks provided clues, interior details remained scarce until now. The M Concept Neue Klasse adopts the trapezoidal infotainment screen and panoramic driver display from other Neue Klasse models yet orients everything more directly toward the driver, minimizing distractions on the console and door panels.

Newly developed bucket seats appear in Bathurst Blue and Berry Red leather, paired with red five-point harnesses that may not reach production. Red accents extend to the gear selector, steering wheel, shift paddles, and digital displays. Nubuck leather, a first for an M vehicle, covers the steering wheel, door panels, and roll bar, while the floating dashboard receives a backlit black knit surface with a hexagonal motif.

With the concept, the next M3's exterior and interior directions are largely clear. Remaining unknowns center on exact power delivery and driving character. The car employs an 800-volt architecture with a battery exceeding 100 kWh and four individual wheel motors producing more than 1000 horsepower combined. An inline-six M3 will remain available for those who prefer it.