The moment you’ve been waiting for is almost here.
BMW made a name for itself with the M3. Its sporty coupe rewrote the performance game and became the benchmark in the industry, not just for the Germans, but for the entire world. Since the E30-generation 3-Series, the M3 has generated a cult-like following that leaves first-time drivers addicted to its dynamic performance. With the new BMW 4-Series, things are changing just a bit. Instead of the M3 Coupe being the go-to performance model in the lineup, BMW will be offering the M4.
The name doesn’t seem to roll off the tongue quite as easily as the M3 has for over 20 years, but that will likely be the only hangup for BMW enthusiasts with the new M4. But before the official production model is unveiled, the BMW Concept M4 Coupe made its debut at the 2013 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
It may have a different name, but the new BMW Concept M4 Coupe is every bit of what we’ve come to expect from the German brand’s M models.
“The BMW Concept M4 Coupe reflects the BMW M philosophy in ideal form: It combines motor racing genes and unrestricted everyday suitability in a highly emotional overall concept,” said Dr. Friedrich Nitschke, President BMW M Division. For four generations, the BMW M3 has put motor racing on the road and the BMW Concept M4 Coupe consistently continues to pursue this fundamental idea. The new model designation “M4” refers – like all other BMW M automobiles – to the series on which this concept car is based.”
The new BMW Concept M4 Coupe was unveiled in a distinct, exclusively-designed Autumn Dust paint color, which brings to mind the classic Darkar Yellow, and Phoenix Yellow of the previous-generation models. Everything about the Concept is based around dynamics and performance with form following function.
The front fascia has that classic, unmistakable BMW face. The double kidney bean grille were modeled with the BMW M “double spoke” design and sport an “M4” badge off to the side. The LED twin round headlights stare ahead, menacingly as the hood with “power dome” that debuted on the E9X-generation M3s hints at the capabilities beneath, and is flanked by two contours. Three large air intakes supply the engine with a fresh breeze while a carbon fiber front splitter, Air Curtain, and Air Breather systems optimize aerodynamics and airflow around the wheels.
The BMW Concept M4 Coupe’s formula is simple: long hood plus long wheelbase plus short front overhang plus set back greenhouse equals a dynamic silhouette. Throw in some powerful rear arches and a CFRP roof, and its performance capabilities become evident. The special M-gills that made their debut on the E46-generation M3 underwent a slight redesign and now incorporate the Air Breather system that works with the Air Curtain to optimize airflow and improve wheel arch ventilation. A set of two-tone, 20-inch M lightweight alloy wheels sport the M double-spoke design and polished outer surfaces allow the M carbon ceramic brakes to peek through.
A smooth and rounded spoiler lip is integrated into the rear trunklid and extends the width of the car, adding visual width in conjunction with the flat LED taillights and bulging rear fenders. Horizontal lines and sculpted shapes are used throughout the rear of the BMW Concept M4 Coupe to accentuate its road-gripping wide track. A pair of twin carbon fiber tailpipes is positioned in the middle of the rear bumper and surrounded by an aerodynamic diffuser and air vents.
The name of the newest M model may come as a bit of a shock to some die-hard enthusiasts, but its performance will be nothing short of extraordinary. Expect minimal changes from the BMW Concept M4 Coupe to the production M4 model.
Now we just have to wait for news on that engine…
BMW Concept M4 Coupe Gallery
Source: BMW
What do you think of the BMW Concept M4 Coupe’s design?
