BMW begins testing Class One DTM car

The German touring car series will switch from V8 engines to four-cylinder units next season, although the ruleset will not come into effect in Super GT until 2020.

It is expected that DTM power outputs will rise by 100bhp to a total of 620bhp, providing a top speed in excess of 180mph.

Driven by Bruno Spengler, who won the DTM title in 2012, the modified M4 made its first appearance at BMW’s Dingolfing group plant ahead of pre-season testing next month.

Jens Marquardt, the marque’s motorsport director, said: “Our first few kilometres of the Class One era went very positively. We are happy with all the functional tests.

“The new turbo sounds awesome. However, its most impressive attribute is its efficiency – despite being considerably more powerful than its predecessor.”

Modifications required to fit the new engine to BMW’s existing DTM challenger include alterations to the air inlets and outlets, plus the intake and exhaust system.

But BMW expects “further evolutionary phases” before the new car is homologated.

Spengler added: “After my first kilometres with the new DTM engine, I can hardly wait for next season.

“I can just imagine how much fun it will be to take to the track. You can feel the extra horsepower.

“The amount of time at full-throttle is reduced – but the top speed is higher than before. We will have to work even harder at the wheel.”

Next year will also mark 50 years since BMW won the European Touring Car Championship with its first turbocharged car, Dieter Quester taking the title with a 2002 TI in its maiden season.

Testing for the new DTM season is scheduled to take place at Estoril from November 11 to 14.