Open top versions of the BMW M3 series were never the true enthusiast’s first choice, but there’s a market out there for high-performance convertibles, and the Bavarians want to keep their slice intact, if not increase it.

Seen here for the very first time, is a camouflaged prototype of the upcoming M4 Convertible that will follow a few months after the presentation of the coupe model next year.

The replacement of the M4 Coupe’s fixed roof with a three-piece folding hardtop will bring a modest weight increase, which in turn will likely add a couple of tenths of a second to the car’s acceleration figures.

Putting aside its more awkward and less elegant profile stemming from the retractable roof, the Convertible model will otherwise be the same as the M4 Coupe, featuring the same aggressive body kit previewed on the concept car earlier this month, and a new 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six with around 420-horses on tap.

Whether these ponies will be directed to the rear wheels exclusively via a DCT dual-clutch transmission or with the option of a six-speed manual, has become a matter of dispute and debate as various rumors have been circulating online. For what it’s worth, BMW is keeping its cards close to its chest and has yet to respond.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS

PHOTO GALLERY

New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-1New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-2New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-3New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-4New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-5New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-6New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-7New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-8New-BMW-M4-Converrtible-9