The BMW Concept 4 has been unveiled with radical styling at the Frankfurt motor show.
Showcasing a dynamic look, the concept points firmly towards the design of the second-generation BMW 4 Series, expected in 2020, and the i4 electric car, expected in 2021.
The huge kidney grille at the front of the car is the most noticeable design feature, dominating the nose of the Concept 4. Following on from a similar design seen on the X7 SUV and 7 Series saloon, it is more vertical than previous examples and includes raised elements for a more three-dimensional visual effect.
Domagoj Dukec, head of BMW Design, points to the kidney grille as always a signature feature of BMW cars. “The BMW Concept 4 presents a confident and classy take on this iconic feature – at the same time, the BMW Concept 4 offers a look ahead to the expressive face of the 4 Series range,” he says.
According to its creators the Concept 4 takes inspiration from the classic 328 and 3.0 CSL models, which it references in its sweeping exterior lines. Currently, the LED lights have no glass cover but are worked into the body instead – but this is a feature unlikely to reach production versions.
There are no images of the car’s interior as yet, with the show car’s dark tints ensuring no view of the cabin could be had. However, given the car’s relationship to the latest 3 Series, it’s likely that the upcoming 4 Series interior will be largely the same as the saloon version.
