BMW Concept 4 takes centre stage at Frankfurt Motor Show

It's far less 'out there' than most concept cars, which means this could hold design cues to the next generation of Beemers.

By David Flynn, September 10 2019
BMW Concept 4 takes centre stage at Frankfurt Motor Show

Amid the expected flock of far-out concept cars at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW's Concept 4 coupe sits closer to what might soon end up in your driveway. The German marque describes the Concept 4 "a future-focused interpretation of the BMW Group’s enduring DNA."

Hovering close to the road, the front of the low-riding Concept 4 reshapes the brand's distinctive kidney grille into an oversized vertical maw.

"The kidney grille has always been a signature feature of BMW cars,” reflects Domagoj Dukec, Head of BMW Design, who says the revamped grille "presents a confident and classy take on this iconic feature."

It's flanked by a pair of twin high-intensity LED headlights, slightly angled and worked into the body as if they were part of a 3D sculpture, while the long thin wing mirrors emerge out of the weather strips.

The stretched bonnet, long wheelbase, flowing roofline and short overhangs all combine into a modern, elegant and dynamic coupe outline, BMW proclaims, where "the interplay of tautly-chiselled volumes and a small number of extremely precise contours create a sense of emotion and dynamism."

The 21-inch alloy wheels represent a heavily “dished” take on the sporty five-spoke design. The fronts of the intricate spokes have a high-polished finish, while the set-back surfaces are finely ground to create a slightly darker effect and give the rim design a sophisticated contrast.

The rear of the BMW Concept 4 flows into a prominent tail graphic with a 'glasshouse' indented into the body. Vertical air outlets frame the lower section, with LED rear lights consisting of a single fibre-optic element framing a striking diffuser integrated into the muscular rear apron.

There's no room to doubt that the Concept 4 is built as much for go as for show.

“The BMW Concept 4 embodies the aesthetic essence of the BMW brand. It combines perfect proportions with a clear and precise design,” expounds Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design.

David

David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.


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