The model is expected in showrooms from the end of the year and will become a standalone model called the 4 Series to set it apart, like the current 6 Series.

Ian Robertson, BMW’s sales and marketing director in the UK, said that the concept is ‘more dynamic and has more presence that the 3 Series so this is why we calling it a 4 Series’.

The concept shown at Detroit is said to be close to the eventual production model and differentiates itself from the current 3 Series by using a wider track and lower roofline to create a more aggressive stance.

Mr Robertson said: ‘This is a new chapter for BMW. We wanted to make a coupe that stands above all others and we are confident that it will define the segment.’