For years, BMW has billed its cars as the Ultimate Driving Machines, with the powerful M3 arguably being the best example of that claim. And with a redesigned 3 Series already here, that means we’ll see the newest generation of the BMW M3 and M4 in just a year or two. As it attempts to beat out competitors such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio and even the Tesla Model 3 Performance, we may see some big changes on the new M3 sedan and M4 Coupe.

The next BMW M3 and M4

After introducing the new 3 Series, BMW is ready to launch a new generation of the M3 and M4. The current 3 and 4 Series hit the production line in 2018, to make preparations for the next generation of M cars that will likely be unveiled in 2020, with a 2021 model year launch. As always, BMW plans to continue the tradition of amping up the M3 and M4 with the latest in high-performance engineering and design.

According to a recent report from Car and Driver, BMW plans to provide the new M3 and M4 with a new inline-six that produces about 475 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. That’s roughly 50 more horsepower than the most current models. This newly engineered engine is slotted to rev above 7,000 rpm, with Competition variants of the M3 and M4 reportedly breaking the 500 hp mark.

Updates to the powertrain will allegedly allow the engine to produce that extra power by lowering compression and lengthening the engine’s stroke. With more engaging steering and a stiffer chassis, the new M3 and M4 should be even more fun to drive than their predecessors. Other details you may find on the new M3 and M4 include larger wheels and tires, bulging hoods, large spoilers, flared fenders, and gaping air intakes. You should also expect to find a variety of color and trim choices, with interior designs that reflect the car company’s heritage in racing.

Though not confirmed, additional rumors for the new BMW M3 and M4 generation include an all-wheel or rear-wheel drive and the choice of a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. The M3 and M4 will see less weight in the body and the M4 convertible may receive a soft-top in place of its traditional drop-top. BMW plans to unveil the brand new M3 and M4 simultaneously later this year at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

Where the M3 and M4 came from

The BMW M3 was built to be the highest performing version of the 3 Series and has been produced for each new generation of cars since it was introduced. Initially, the M3 was made into a coupe and convertible body style, but it’s only been available as a sedan since 2015. The latest BMW M3 generation, dubbed the F80 M3, was unveiled at the 2014 North American International Auto Show. It’s available with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch and houses a twin-turbo, 3.0-liter, inline-six engine. The F80 M3 can reach 60 mph in under 4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph.

The BMW M4 is the coupe version of the M3, although it’s also available as a convertible. Known as the F82 (coupe) or F83 (convertible), this high-performance two-door houses the same 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged inline-six found in the M3. It is available with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch.

All images provided by the automaker unless otherwise noted.