Is this the 2015 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe?

Three leaked patent images have prematurely revealed the 2015 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe ahead of its scheduled debut next year.

The 4-Series Gran Coupe is aimed at buyers who want a less expensive 6-Series Gran Coupe and a sportier 3-Series GT. Riding on a modified 3-Series platform, the 4 is nearly identical to the 4-Series coupe from the tip of the front bumper to the A-pillar. Beyond that, it gains a swooping roof line and a lower wheelbase that allows engineers to graft an extra set of doors and a third side window. The rear end is again largely carried over from the coupe.

Interior pictures are not available but the 4 Gran Coupe will likely feature a Germanic dashboard characterized by simple, straight-forward instrumentation, driver-focused controls and premium materials. BMW’s next four-door coupe will offer space for up to four passengers.

Most of the 4-Series Gran Coupe’s engines will be carried over from the existing coupe and convertible variants, meaning buyers will be able to choose between the 428i and the 435i. The 428i will be powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 240 horsepower at 5,000 rpms and 255 lb-ft. of torque from just 1,250 rpms. The more expensive 435i will use a 3.0-liter straight-six mill that will churn out 300 horsepower at 5,800 rpms and 300 lb-ft. of torque from just 1,200 rpms.

Look for the BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe to greet the public for the first time at next March’s Geneva Motor Show and reach U.S. showrooms shortly after as a 2015 model. When launched, it will fight head-to-head against the Audi A5 Sportback and a rumored Mercedes-badged competitor based on the all-new 2015 C-Class.