It's been a little more than three months since the next-generation 7 Series->ke323 showed itself free of camouflage in a bunch of leaked photos, and BMW->ke178 is still testing various versions of the sedan->ke142 ahead of its big debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show->ke235 in September. A private unveiling is actually scheduled today (4/15/2015), but it remains to be seen whether more photos will surface following this confidential meeting. Anyway, a new prototype of the 7 Series just hit the streets with plenty of new details for us to gaze at.

The sedan is still camouflaged front to rear -- not that we haven't seen it without the black-and-white wrap already -- but the big news here is that this particular example showcases some unique body parts. Specifically, it seems BMW is readying a sportier version of the new 7 Series, with bits borrowed from the M Performance division. BMW already made it clear it won't be offering an M7,->ke4402 despite "high demand" for such a sedan, but this test car here suggests Munich is working on a model to slot below the Alpina B7,->ke536 currently the most powerful 7 Series-based limousine.

Continue reading to learn more about the next BMW 7 Series.

2016 BMW 7 Series - Spy Shots

The test car above might not seem different from previous 7 Series prototypes, but a closer look reveals what sets it apart from its siblings. Up front, there's a slightly revised bumper, with additional elements turning the regular apron intake into a three-piece grille, while the sides showcase different side skirts. The biggest clue, however, could be what appears to be a set of M wheels. The rollers feature a twin-five-spoke design similar to the current M5's,->ke2922 but they do seem unique.

Read our full review here.

Why it matters

The fact that BMW is working on an M Sport 7 Series is far from shocking, but it may very well mean the Germans still don't want to build an actual M7 to rival Mercedes'->ke187 S63 AMG. But we may find out more about that as the next-generation 7 Series makes it public debut in Frankfurt this autumn.