Spy photos have emerged of a prototype for the BMW M4 GT4 racecar undergoing pre-production tests at the Nurburgring in Germany.
The test mule spotted is very similar to a stock M4 but with added aerodynamic elements for more downforce. A large front chin spoiler can be seen along with a low-hanging rear diffuser, side skirts and a giant rear wing.
The modifications made to the test mule aren’t bound for production. Instead, they will be applied to the GT4-spec M4 racecar, which is expected to make its debut sometime in 2017 ahead of the 2018 racing season.
The GT4-spec M4 will also feature the same racing seat, pedal box and braking system featured on the new BMW M6 GTLM racecar. An FIA-spec rollcage, carbon fiber doors, a racing exhaust system and other race-ready equipment will be installed as well.
As per GT4 rules, the M4 GT4 will have the same 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight six engine as the road-going M4. Depending on the balance of performance in the series, power may be reduced over the 430 horsepower production M4 using an air restrictor.
