So far they have refrained from doing so, but a new report suggests that the decision makers at Munich could green light a sports car to go head to head with the 911.

Shifting direction of the 6-Series and making it a true performance car will allow BMW to develop the Porsche fighter that will be powered by a straight-six twin-turbo engine with two high-performance e-motors, producing a combined 500 HP.

Instead of developing a new platform, though, AutomobileMagazine says BMW will use the CLAR architecture that will underpin the next generation 6-Series coupe, convertible and the four-door Gran Coupe.

Having debuted on the new 7-Series, this platform will help, which will lose proportions and it will be around 500 lbs (227 kg) lighter. Power is expected to come from an inline-six quad-turbo engine, which should be good for at least 500 HP, and options will include rear-wheel steering and an air suspension.

The upcoming BMW 6-Series is expected to hit the market in 2018 or 2019, while the new sports car, tentatively named the 9-Series, should follow it at the turn of the decade.

Note: BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage Concept pictured

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