2019 BMW Concept 4

Nosing ahead – BMW’s vision for the next-generation 4 Series is daringly styled but there’s promise aplenty


Reports suggest the S58 turbo-petrol from the X3/X4 M is destined for the new M4

Mixed-reception grille

BMW’s adoption of ever-growing kidney grilles shows no sign of abating and, set against the Concept 4’s flowing sheet metal, the latest example is particularly attention-grabbing. According to BMW’s designers, this bold frontal treatment pays homage to the similarly prominent snouts which adorned the likes of the 328 and 3.0 CSi E9. There’s a chance a study such as the Four tests the waters with consumers as to just how large that kidney grille can get.


BMW Concept 4

BMW Concept 4

Engines

BMW is playing its cards close to its chest when it comes to technical specifications but we can expect the 4 Series engine line-up to largely mirror that of the new 3 Series. Perhaps there’ll be less focus on the four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and diesel, and greater emphasis on the inline-six petrol units. The ubiquitous but brilliantly applied eight-speed ‘box will remain the staple transmission.

What about M?

With the trend towards downsized powerplants now creeping into the performance segment, there’s been a great deal of concern BMW’s M models will soon be mounting four-cylinder turbo units in lieu of its charismatic inline-six and V8 engines. Thankfully, it looks as though the M4 will be spared. Recent reports suggest the S58 inline-six twin-turbo from the X3/X4 M is destined for the new M4. Capable of revving to 7300rpm, this unit will likely be offered in two states of tune: 352 kW/600 Nm in standard guise and 375 kW in Competition models. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is also likely to remain but could be allied with a torque-vectoring performance AWD system similar to that in the M5.

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