It seems that plans to rebadge the next generation of BMW's mid-size coupés and cabriolets as the 4-Series have had to be shelved as former partner Rover own the rights to the term 400-Series, including such model names as the 418 and 420.
That means the coupés will retain their 3-Series nomenclature.
The new coupé, seen here testing at Nurburgring, features a relatively long overhang and the front and rear giving it a substantial profile, and the car is expected to feature tapering and the rounded nose of the 6-Series.
Engines featured will include the usual range from the new 3-Series saloon and we can expect BMW's well-respected diesels to make it all the way into the convertible models as well.
Meanwhile, details of a replacement for the M3 remain sketchy, though it does seem like the Bavarians are planning a four-door version of the high performance version this time round. That will be in addition to a two-door coupé and a cabriolet version.
Power is expected to come from a V8 and industry sources suggest it will offer something in the region of 400bhp. Arrival in Ireland is not expected until late next year or early 2007.