We’ve already seen spy shots of the next-generation
BMW 4 Series in Coupe and Convertible flavors but the Gran Coupe five-door
fastback has managed to keep a low profile so far. That’s not the case anymore as
our photographers snapped the first photos of the upcoming 4 Series Gran Coupe,
revealing a very familiar silhouette not even the extensive camouflage can
disguise.
It turns out that the next-generation BMW 4 Series
Gran Coupe looks a lot like the i4 electric vehicle we’ve shown you several
times before. BMW appears to be using the same bodywork for the two models and
that’s unsurprising since both vehicles will share the CLAR modular
architecture as well and will be made on the same assembly line.
However, the 4 Series Gran Coupe will be
differentiated from the i4 from a styling standpoint. The former model’s front
end will be shared with the other members of the 4 Series family while the EV
version will adopt a unique face with a closed-off grille and fewer air intakes
since it does not need them.
As for the 4 Series Gran Coupe, it will sport
similar headlights and taillights with the Coupe and Convertible models, as
these spy photos can attest. The prototype wears the final production lights
which means development is quite advanced.
Obviously, the biggest difference between the BMW i4
and the 4 Series Gran Coupe will be the powertrain. While the former will pack
an all-electric drivetrain allowing it to cover over 600 km on a
single charge, the latter will feature gasoline and diesel engines and possibly
a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Rumor has it BMW will also offer an M4 Gran Coupe
for the first time, so there’s quite a lot to look forward to. Expect the second-generation BMW
4 Series Gran Coupe to debut sometime in 2020 after the Coupe and Convertible.
It will launch in the United States for the 2021 model year.
