This is not the first time we are seeing the i4 outside during tests, but the new test vehicle appears to have a few performance upgrades.
The wheels stay rather lackluster, but the heavy-duty brakes, widened rear fenders and special side mirrors all hint that it is an M Performance version of the car that is running pre-production tests right now. The wrap likely conceals more details like this.
Reports came in in early December that the i4 would be available in two variants, i440 and i4 M50 xDrive. The former will utilize a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle and pack a rather humble trim package, including 17-inch wheels. Adaptive suspension, rear spoiler and larger wheels with matching brake calipers will be available at a premium.
The other variant will benefit from dual engines, AWD and all of the options listed above as standard equipment. A third version called i435 will debut later.
The production of the i4 and its M version should begin in Munich, Germany in 2021. Technical specs remain unannounced, but the Concept i4 revealed this spring had 530 PS (523 hp / 390 kW), surpassing the gas-powered M4 Competition by 20 PS (20 hp / 15 kW).