If youhopedthe oversized double-kidney grille of the BMW Concept 4 would be discarded for the production version of the next4 Series, look away now… Instagrammers have posted these images that show (ostensibly roadgoing) G22-generation BMWs with “large nostrils”!

When the BMW Concept 4 was unveiled at the 2019 Frankfurt Show it sparked controversy. Purported to be “85% representative” of the production version of the G22-generation BMW 4 Series, the concept was generally applauded, but even the staunchest Bimmer enthusiasts took issue with the double-kidney grille that, apart from looking like the “kidneys” had virtually blended into one another, practically “bit chunks out of the lip of bonnet” and stretched all the way to the very bottom edge of the car’s bumper.

Image credit:Allcarnews

At the time, industry observers commented that even if the much-talked-about design cue would be carried over to a production version, it would be much less elaborate. After all, "where would one fit the front number plate?" Well, the answer is: in the middle of the grille; yesterday, Instagrammers Allcarnewsand Wilcoblokposted these photos that show partially-uncovered BMW 4 Series derivatives and theevidence is damning: the next generation of the Bavarian brand’s business class coupe is indeed “big-nosed”.

Fromwhat we can see, the double-kidney grille isn’t as chiselled out (some might say chintzy) as the BMW Concept 4's, but it’s elaborate nonetheless. The sporty mesh design of the grille and sculpted bumper treatment suggests that the car (shown from directly in front) is an M Sport version such as the M440i xDrive or perhaps M440d xDrive!

Image credit:Wilcoblok

If the M440i (the flagship until the M4 comes in 2021) is identical to its sedan sibling, it’ll be powered by a 3.0-litrestraight-6 turbopetrol that produces 285 kW and 500 Nm of torque and drives all 4 wheels throughan 8-speed sport automatic transmission.Expect a 0-100 kph time of 4.4 seconds and a fuel consumption figure of around 7.7 L/100 km.

It’s uncertain whether an M440d would be produced and, if so, whether it will come to South Africa, but we anticipate such a derivative would be powered by 3.0-litre turbodiesel that produces 240 kW and 700 Nm of torque (it would also be 4-wheel-driven and be mated with an 8-speed auto.Reportedly supported by a 48V electrical system, which gives the car mild-hybrid ability, an M440d XDrive should be capable of hitting 100 kph from standstill in 4.6 seconds and consume an average of between 5.3 and 5.7 L/100 km.

BMW sought to strongly differentiate its 3 Series sedan and its coupe-, convertible- and gran coupe variants when it launched the 4 Series. For the next iterations of the 4, the headlamp treatment is even more distinctive – they’re slimmer and more upwardly angled, while at the back, designers took their cue from the 8 Series’ ornate tail-lamp design.

The 2nd-generation BMW 4 Series Coupe shouldbe unveiled around mid-year. Could it be launched in South Africa before the end of 2020? We’ll keep you posted!

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BMW Concept 4 Previews New 4 Series

BMW M340i xDrive (2019) Launch Review