It’s the first time BMW has given the sportier 3 Series variants their own model line, but brings the mid-size vehicles in line with the larger 5 and 6 Series and i8 hybrid, where the even-numbered models denote a sportier focus. Separating the two model lines also brings BMW in line with Audi’s A4 and A5.

The 4 Series shares its 2,810mm wheelbase with the 3 Series saloon, but features a 2mm wider front and 10mm wider rear track. External dimensions are slightly wider and longer than the saloon, while the roofline is a significant 63mm lower. Engine options are likely to be similar to the higher-end units found in the 3 Series, including the fleet-popular 320d and BMW’s first M4 Coupe.

Exterior changes include a wider air intake in the front bumper, reshaped LED daytime running lights which connect with the kidney grille, sleeker rear light clusters closer in style to the 6 Series and a boomerang-shaped air intake on the wing.

Behind pillarless doors, most of the interior is shared with the saloon, while the rear bench is shaped to look like two individual seats. BMW has yet to reveal what, if anything, will change before the car reaches production.