600bhp Vision M Next Concept is the future of BMW M cars

-    The radical looking concept could be considered as a futuristic iteration of the iconic M1 or a spiritual successor to the i8.

-    The design study promises autonomous and intelligent car technologies of the future. 

BMW has given us yet another Vision Next Concept at a special event held at BMW Welt in Germany. But this time around, there is an M placed in between Vision Next. This means that the Vision M Next Concept gives us a glimpse of how cars from BMW’s high-performance M Division will look like in the near future. 

And it’s not just about the looks. The Vision M Next design study also packs in a powertrain which is akin to the one in the i8, only with twice the horsepower. The Power PHEV powertrain comes with a choice of electric all-wheel drive and pure rear-wheel drive, with power coming from either electric motors or a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. The combined output is claimed at 600 horsepower with a top speed of 300kmph and 0-100kmph time of just three seconds. And this powertrain is also capable of delivering a range of around 100km in pure EV mode. 

What’s new is BMW’s new autonomous drive modes. All the Vision Next concepts will get this mode which basically comprises of two selections – Ease and Boost. The Boost mode will let the driver take the wheel but in the Ease mode, the car will drive itself and can also alter the driving concept depending on the occupants’ needs. This technology is developed under BMW’s Autonomous driving, Connectivity, Electrification and Services (ACES). 

Coming back to the appearance, the Vision M Concept may divide opinions, but we must say it is handsome. The low-slung profile has another iteration of the signature kidney grille finished in contrasting orange. The grille opening has a “transparent layer with a laser-etched, illuminated pattern that seems to be floating inside” and are flanked by sleek, twin strip Laser Wire headlights. Even the bonnet has sporty intakes adding a lot of character.

In profile, the M Concept appears to be a mid-engine sports car thanks to its floating roofline (same as in the M1) and gaping intakes behind the gullwing doors. The orange cladded rear wheels measure 22-inches and are different from gorgeous looking 21-inch wheels in the front. BMW says the black side skirts are made from recycled carbon fibre. And at the back, the M1 inspiration continues with three-slat window and intricately designed sleek Laser Wire taillamps. The recycled carbon fibre rear diffusers are very race car like. 

Inside, the driver-centric cockpit design features a ‘boost pod’ interface which has integrated displays, a fingerprint sensor for start button, and an augmented reality.