BMW will unveil its next-generation M3 in concept form at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, just as it did with the M5 sedan months before that car went on sale. Like the original M5 concept, this latest M3 version will be virtually identical to the production model and we now have more details about the car’s final specifications.

Powering the coupe will be an all-new 4.0L V8 unit developing 420hp and it's expected BMW will also be showing a new dual-clutch DSG style transmission to help put power down to the road. Performance should be even better than its Audi RS4 rival thanks to its lighter rear-wheel-drive configuration. To further shed weight, it’s rumoured that BMW might even utilize carbon-fiber for some of the body panels.

BMW will have a tough fight on its hands, especially as it's now competing with the RS4, Lexus IS-F, and the yet-to-be-released C63 AMG.

The recently revised 1-series hatch, including the new three-door model, as well as the facelifted 5-series sedan and Touring will also be appearing at the Geneva show.