The coupe counterpart to the new BMW 3 Series makes its way online before its anticipated unveiling in Detroit next month.

BMW is expected to unveil its new 4 Series in concept form at the upcoming North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month, but you won’t have to wait that long to see what the Bavarian automaker has in store as the first images have just leaked onto the interwebs.

Succeeding the outgoing 3 Series coupe, the new 4 Series is launching a new model line, similar to the differentiation between the 5 Series sedan/wagon and the 6 Series coupe/convertible.

The version you see here is, strictly speaking, a concept, although it is expected to closely preview the production version to follow. Its design is similar to the new 3 Series sedan, only more svelte, with a more aggressive front bumper capped by swept-back headlamps, visually joined (as on the 3) to BMW’s signature twin-kidney grille.

Sharp side vents adorn the flanks, while the shape tapers more sveltely towards the rear. Inside the concept is all two-tone black and brown, with rich leather upholstery, matte wood trim and a brown Alcantara headliner.

Expect the production version to offer powertrain options closely mirroring the 3 Series, with a 2.0-liter turbo four packing 240 horsepower and a 3.0-liter turbo six with 300 hp, both driving through a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic to either the rear wheels or all four.

The 4 Series is expected to be offered in coupe, convertible and four-door Gran Coupe body-styles, with a new M4 to follow at some point as well.

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Chris Quinn | Elite.