BMW’s Neue Klasse concepts have given enthusiasts a preview of the brand’s future design direction, but it turns out that this influence will not be limited solely to its electric vehicles. According to Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW’s head of design, the design language showcased in the Neue Klasse sedan and X crossover concepts will be carried across the entire range, including combustion engine models.
Van Hooydonk emphasised that both petrol-powered and electric BMWs will adopt these new design cues, with subtle differences in their design elements and proportions to distinguish them. This is part of a broader strategy to offer modern, cohesive styling across all BMW vehicles, allowing customers to choose between internal combustion or electric drivetrains without feeling they are choosing between different aesthetics.
For fans of the Neue Klasse design, there’s even more to look forward to, as van Hooydonk mentioned that the production models could look “even better” than the concepts. He compared this to the close resemblance of earlier BMW concept cars like the i3 and i8 to their final production versions.
By 2029, BMW is expected to have at least five Neue Klasse models on the road, including a new 3 Series, an M3, several SUVs, and a sporty, high-riding coupe. The first of these models could debut as early as next year, with most arriving between 2026 and 2029, marking an exciting new chapter for BMW across all powertrains.