BMW has officially teased a striking new concept car ahead of the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2025, and it’s making waves for all the right reasons. Inspired by the legendary Z3 M Coupe, the upcoming concept is a Shooting Brake-style sports car that blends heritage, bold design, and performance into a futuristic package.
This concept isn’t just another design exercise—it’s a clear nod to BMW’s iconic design past, particularly the cult-favorite “Clown Shoe” Z3 M Coupe, which despite polarizing styling, gained a massive following for its raw driving dynamics and character. With the teaser revealing key retro cues wrapped in modern proportions, enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement.
Here’s everything we know so far about BMW’s Z3 M Shooting Brake Concept and what it could mean for the future of the German marque.
A Tribute to the ‘Clown Shoe’: Why the Z3 M Still Matters
To understand the buzz around this reveal, we must first revisit the original BMW Z3 M Coupe. Released in the late 1990s, it featured:
- A long hood and short rear deck
- Rear-wheel drive and a muscular inline-6 engine
- A unique Shooting Brake silhouette that divided opinion
Despite its unconventional looks, the Z3 M Coupe is now a modern classic, celebrated for its driving purity, analog controls, and raw power delivery. BMW’s decision to revive its spirit through this concept speaks volumes about the brand’s willingness to tap into emotional nostalgia while heading into a high-tech, electrified future.
What the Teasers Reveal: Retro Meets Future
Though BMW hasn’t unveiled the full vehicle yet, the official teaser images and design sketches provide several clues. The concept features:
- A long bonnet reminiscent of the classic Z models
- A tight greenhouse with a low-slung Shooting Brake rear
- Flared rear haunches evoking the muscular stance of the Z3 M
- Circular LED taillights inspired by retro BMWs
- Futuristic details like slimline headlights and flush door handles
The proportions are unmistakably Z—low, wide, and full of attitude. But instead of simply replicating the old Z3 M, BMW seems to be reinterpreting it through the lens of future mobility and progressive design.
Powertrain Speculations: Will It Be Electric or ICE?
BMW hasn’t confirmed the drivetrain yet, but there are two likely directions:
1. Fully Electric (Based on Neue Klasse Platform)
Given BMW’s push toward electrification and the upcoming Neue Klasse architecture, there’s a strong chance the Z3 M Shooting Brake Concept is:
- An EV with dual-motor AWD setup
- Powered by BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive tech
- Capable of 600+ km range with ultra-fast charging
This would align with the brand’s Vision Neue Klasse concepts, which preview its EV-centric future.
2. Hybrid or Inline-6 Tribute
On the other hand, BMW could surprise purists with a limited-run combustion variant or a hybrid, especially if it aims to produce a special edition for collectors. A modern S58 inline-six, already used in M models, could bring performance and character fans crave.
Whatever the case, BMW’s tease of the Z3 M Shooting Brake blends emotion with performance, whether it’s electric, hybrid, or ICE.
Interior Expectations: Minimalist and Driver-Focused
While interior images haven’t been released, BMW’s recent concepts hint at a clean, driver-centric cockpit. Expect:
- A curved panoramic digital display
- Sustainable materials with leather alternatives
- 3D-printed or recycled trim elements
- Bucket-style sports seats
- Minimal physical buttons, with haptic touch controls
It’s likely the cabin will carry design DNA from the BMW i Vision Circular and i Vision Dee, merging emotional connection with next-gen tech.
Villa d’Este: The Perfect Stage for Automotive Art
BMW’s decision to debut this concept at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este isn’t random. Held annually on the shores of Lake Como, Italy, the event celebrates automotive art and history, often showcasing coach-built masterpieces and legacy nameplates.
Why Villa d’Este Matters:
- It attracts global automotive connoisseurs
- Many iconic BMW concepts have debuted here
- The venue supports storytelling through design heritage
By presenting this car at Villa d’Este, BMW signals that this concept is more than a showpiece—it’s a design manifesto and a statement of legacy.
Could This Concept Enter Production?
BMW hasn’t confirmed production plans, but history tells us not to rule it out. Past concept cars such as the BMW M1 Hommage and 3.0 CSL Hommage influenced future models or limited editions.
If the public and media reception at Villa d’Este is positive, BMW could:
- Build a limited-run collector’s edition Shooting Brake
- Use the design elements for a future Z-series EV sports car
- Launch a customization program for enthusiasts through BMW Individual
BMW has recently shown increased willingness to explore low-volume passion projects, and this concept fits that mold perfectly.
Fan Reactions and Industry Buzz
The teaser alone has lit up social media and forums. Here’s what enthusiasts are saying:
“Finally, BMW remembers how to build a car with soul!”
“The Clown Shoe is back. Shut up and take my money.”
“Please make it manual or at least bring back some analog drama.”
Even critics of BMW’s recent grille-heavy designs are applauding this move, calling it a “return to form” and a bridge between past and future.
Conclusion: A Love Letter to Enthusiasts and Visionaries
With the Z3 M Shooting Brake concept, BMW seems to be crafting a love letter to its enthusiasts, while also aligning with its forward-looking strategy. It’s more than just a nostalgic tribute—it’s a reminder of why people fall in love with cars in the first place.
By marrying classic proportions with modern tech and unveiling it on a global art platform like Villa d’Este, BMW is saying: “Yes, the future is electric, but emotion still matters.”
As we await the full reveal, one thing is clear: BMW’s soul is alive and well, and it’s wearing the silhouette of a Shooting Brake.
