Even as the covers came off its shimmering M3, BMW was steadfastly insisting that the sport-tuned version of its 3-Series Coupe was merely a concept.

Concept it may be, but we reckon the M3 is pretty damn close to production.

In fact, replace the fancy reflective paint with something a little less ostentatious and you could be looking at the production model M3.

Check out the power bulge in the aluminium bonnet - a hint to the beast that lurks underneath.

BMW has confirmed that the M3 will definitely be powered by a V8, and we'd put good money on it being a 400bhp 4.0-litre effort.

So it's no surprise to see the gaping air intakes at the front and quad exhausts at the back.

With the exception of the doors and luggage compartment lid, the entire body of the M3 is original. Especially the carbon fibre reinforced plastic roof, which reduces overall vehicle weight and lowers the centre of gravity.

And if you needed any more proof that this is a near-production concept rather than the result of some tripped-out brainstorming session, check out those totally plausible 19-inch aluminium alloys.

Why, they're just the sort of wheels you might see on the road in the very near future...

Read BMW 3-Series Coupe Car Review