More BMW M-cars for Australia

BMW has revealed plans to bring the new M2 coupe and hardcore M4 GTS performance cars to Australia. 

The brand's local boss, Marc Werner, told reporters at the launch of the new BMW X1 the company plans to cater to enthusiasts with a range of new products this year. 

First on the hit-list is the new BMW M4 GTS, a lighter, more powerful version of the brand's turbocharged coupe that will go on display at Melbourne's Motorclassica show this weekend.

The car will feature in a display headlined by the brand's stunning 3.0 CSL Hommage R concept that pays tribute to BMW racers of the 1970s. 

While it's too early for Werner to confirm exact details surrounding the model, he says it is a sure fit for the local market. 

"With Australia's love for performance vehicles we have put our hand up to make sure we have our fair share," he says. 

"We are determined to offer it here."

The M4's little brother has a more certain future. 

BMW will offer the compact performance coupe locally from 2016. 

Werner says the "sensational" new model "will open up the M brand to a whole new audience". 

The car gives BMW a much-needed rival to the likes of the Mercedes-AMG A45 and Audi RS3, compact cars that have proved more popular than conventional V8-powered sports sedans. 

The German marque is also set to introduce running changes to the M3 sedan and M4 coupe later this year.

The update is likely to bring more value to the high-performance duo, making it a more tempting rival to the dominant Mercedes-AMG C63.