BMW X4 M40i spied during racetrack testing in Germany

It's not uncommon today for automakers to test cars on a racetrack that are likely to never actually see racetrack use. BMW did just this recently when what is thought to be the X4 M40i was spied testing on the Nurburgring in Germany. Automakers love to say that the heralding of their cars were tuned on the Nurburgring. The hunchbacked M40i is a sub-M brand performance car and while it may not have the same levels of performance as something like the M3 or M4, it should be an impressive ride.

The M40i is said to use the same 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder that makes 365 to 375 hp found under the hood of the M235i. To set the M40i apart from the standard models it also gets some body and styling upgrades.

Those upgrades include a more aggressive body kit, larger wheels, and a firmer suspension. The brakes are also beefed up to help the car stop better. Inside the car is expected to get sportier seats to hold occupants in place better and an M-specific steering wheel.

Speculation is that since the test car was spied on the track with no camouflage, it is likely production ready and might go into production before the end of the year. The car might be unveiled at the LA Auto Show.

SOURCE: Autoblog