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Hidden message in BMW M3 and M4 teaser photos

BMW appears to be having some fun with its eagle-eyed fans, by putting hidden messages in its latest teaser photos.


Fresh images of the yet-to-be-revealed 2021 M3 and M4 have been posted to Instagram, with a discreet message from BMW to anyone attempting to get a clearer picture of the exterior designs.

After the brand unveiled its new-generation 4 Series with a controversial oversized kidney grille in June 2020, enthusiasts have been paying close attention to other upcoming BMWs to see whether this distinct design will continue.

Earlier, leaked images of the 2021 BMW M4 coupe suggest that it – and possibly its M3 sedan twin – will wear the same giant grille as its 4 Series sibling.

BMW has stayed relatively tight-lipped on the design of the upcoming performance models, save for a teaser image of the front of the M4 and the rear of the M3, posted to Instagram by BMW M CEO Markus Flasch.

 

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It looks much the same as any other promotional photo – unless, of course, you're willing to look a little closer.

Visual investigations carried out by BMW Blog (pictured above and below) found when the teaser image was lightened, it revealed a couple of hidden messages.

By applying contrast and highlight effects to the photo, they were able to unearth an inscription reading "nice try" on the boot of the M3 and another reading "nope" on the M4's front fender.

 

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Clearly, Flasch and the BMW design team are aware of how keenly internet sleuths pore over their their teaser images.

For what it's worth, BMW's design boss has already assured giant grille detractors the big kidney won't be featured across the entire range in future.

"We don't want to have any detail repeating on a model, because every model should have a unique character," BMW Head of Design, Domagoj Dukec, said.

The 2021 M3 and M4 are scheduled to be officially unveiled in September. Meantime, you can also see the enhanced teaser images here.

Susannah Guthrie

Susannah Guthrie has been a journalist for over a decade, covering everything from world news to fashion, entertainment, health and now cars. Having previously worked across titles like The New Daily, Elle, Harper's Bazaar, People Magazine and Cosmopolitan, Susannah now relishes testing family cars with the help of her husband and two-year-old son.

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