The days of high-revving, big engine BMW M cars are over. The V10 in the M5 will be replaced with a twin-turbo V8, and now details are emerging on the cylinder loss for the next generation M3.

Right now BMW's hottest 3-Series car is propelled by a 4.0-liter 414 hp V8 engine, but when the next generation 3-Series comes in 2012, don't expect the engines to get above six cylinders. BMW’s M Group CEO, Ludwig Willisch told Motor Trend that a turbocharged six-cylinder engine is a must for the next generation M3.

But don't despair just yet. While the horsepower from the six cylinder engine won't likely be as much as the current V8, the weight savings should give the car similar performance with better fuel economy. This will also move more of the car's weight towards the center. Willisch said the V6 is "a more compact engine that could be butted up against the firewall."

BMW has been flexing its horsepower muscle in the last few years, but now the next cars will be more about showing off engineering talent. So while we predict there is still plenty more news to come about car with smaller engines, we also expect that to be supplemented with news of turbocharging and utilization of BMW's EfficiencyDynamics.

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