BMW’s new 3-Series will not be offered with a diesel engine, ending a powertrain tradition that stretches back to the E30 generation in some markets. The redesigned sedan is available with gasoline engines, while electrified alternatives will cover the rest of the lineup.

When BMW announced the latest 3-Series, it confirmed a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. No diesel variant was mentioned, and BMW has now confirmed that diesel production for the 3-Series is coming to an end.

Diesel models continue temporarily

The outgoing G20-generation 320d remains the latest diesel 3-Series. It uses BMW’s 2.0-liter B47 turbo-diesel four-cylinder, producing 188 horsepower and 295 pound-feet (400 Nm) of torque. In certain markets, the range also includes the M340d, powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged diesel inline-six with 340 horsepower and 516 pound-feet (700 Nm) of torque.

Sales of those models are expected to continue for several more months while BMW completes development of the new-generation 3-Series and prepares to begin production. After that transition, diesel buyers will no longer have a 3-Series option.

Diesel engines have been available in every 3-Series generation since the E30, although availability has varied by market. Their removal marks a significant change for European buyers who have traditionally chosen diesel models for their combination of performance and fuel economy.

Plug-in hybrid expected to fill the gap

BMW has not explained why it is dropping diesel power from the 3-Series. However, Euro 7 regulations are making diesel-engine development in Europe more difficult. Plug-in hybrid models are expected to take over the role previously occupied by the diesel variants, combining a combustion engine with electric assistance.

Details about the next plug-in hybrid 3-Series remain limited, but its launch is expected next year. It will likely pair BMW’s familiar 2.0-liter B48 turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor and a relatively large battery pack. That combination could provide more than 62 miles (100 kilometers) of electric-only driving range, although the figure has not been confirmed.

With diesel removed, customers will be able to choose between gasoline-powered mild-hybrid versions, the battery-electric i3, and the anticipated plug-in hybrid 3-Series.