BMW has been showing off its new 4 Series model in concept form at this week’s Detroit Motor Show.

The “4” badge may be unfamiliar but this car is the successor to an established favourite of aspiring business car motorists: the 3 Series coupe.

The decision to call the new car a BMW 4 Series represents a further stage in the development of the 3 Series coupe as a distinct model from the 3 Series saloon.

The first 3 Series was a two-door saloon, and was only joined by a four-door later on. In time, though, two-door 3s shared less bodywork with the saloons, and the coupe as the two-door models became, increasingly commanded a hefty price premium in a business car comparison.

The BMW 4 Series concept still keeps a strong visual link to the recently introduced 3 Series saloon but looks quite a bit sportier thanks to a big air intake in the front apron and a partially blanked off grille.

There’s no news yet on pricing or UK introduction dates.