If you’ve ever tried to explain a BMW model name to someone who doesn’t follow cars, you know the experience. It usually goes something like: “It’s the 340i xDrive… no, not the M340i — that’s different. Well, sort of.” Then they stare at you blankly and go back to their Ford F-150, which is at least honest about what it is.
Well, BMW has done it again, this time by accidentally posting a treasure trove of 2027 model names on its own U.S. online shop before they were supposed to go public. Whether it was a rogue intern or a server migration gone sideways, the result is a gift to auto enthusiasts everywhere: a nearly complete look at what Munich has cooking for 2027.
And I don’t think these names will really tell you much about what you can expect from these vehicles, per usual. (Of course we know these names mean something but they look like alphabet soup and have the same emotional impact as one.)
M2 xDrive: The Purist Nightmare (That’s Also Kind of Exciting)
The headline act from the leak is the confirmation of an M2 xDrive, something that’s been whispered about in car forums the same way people whisper about UFOs… “It’s coming, I just know it.” Then you get the side eye.
For years, the M2 stood alone as the last full-fat M car to only send power to the rear wheels. That era is coming to an end.
Before you start drafting your angry letter to BMW’s CEO, take a breath. The rear-wheel-drive M2 with a manual gearbox isn’t going anywhere. The xDrive version will be the extra option for people who live somewhere it snows, or who just want to feel superior at stoplights. It’ll almost certainly come paired exclusively with an automatic transmission — which, given how good modern BMW automatics are, isn’t exactly a tragedy.
Pricing? Expect a bump of somewhere around $5,000 over the standard car, putting the xDrive version in the $75,000 neighborhood. You’ll also be hauling around an extra 120-ish pounds of all-wheel-drive hardware, so maybe skip the second cup of coffee before weighing yourself in the driver’s seat.
More Electrics, Because Of Course
BMW is clearly all-in on electrification, and the leak confirms a flood of new EVs headed to the U.S. The 3 Series lineup will gain two fully electric variants — the i3 40 xDrive and i3 50 xDrive — both expected to share their bones with the iX3, which arrives in North America this summer. Speaking of which, the iX3 itself is getting three trim levels for 2027, covering both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations.
For those who want their electric crossover shaped like it’s trying to sneak under a garage door, the iX4 is also on the list. Think of it as the iX3’s sportier sibling who goes to the gym a lot, sacrifices a little rear headroom and cargo space, but looks great doing it. Two variants are confirmed there as well.
The X5 is getting a next-generation update, and yes, there will be an electric iX5 joining the family. Even the hulking luxury SUV segment isn’t escaping the EV wave.
What About the 7 Series?
The 7 Series was listed but conveniently blurred out on the web shop — BMW apparently has some sense of theatrical mystery left. What we do know is that the V8 isn’t dead, with an M760 performance model reportedly in the works.
As for the V12? Gone, reserved exclusively for Rolls-Royce, which is the automotive equivalent of sending the family heirloom to live with the rich cousins.
The xRoadi7 Ahead
This leaked list is only part of the picture. BMW is also reportedly working on a next-generation X7 for 2028, an updated X6, and — perhaps most intriguingly — a rugged off-roader aimed at the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes G-Class crowd. The first electric M models, including an M3 EV and an X3 M EV, are expected before the end of 2027.
It’s a packed pipeline, and BMW’s accidental reveal has made waiting for the official announcements a little less interesting. At least we’ll have plenty of time to practice saying “iX3 40 sDrive” without stumbling.
As always, these are pre-production names and configurations that may change before official reveal. Pricing and availability are subject to change.