Our latest spy photos of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36) may not reveal anything new for the exterior [see past spy photos] , but this is the first look at the F36’s interior.

And it looks just like the F30 3 Series interior. But, what’s new is the presence of the iDrive Touch controller. This comes as no surprise as BMW has already announced details for a touch sensitive iDrive controller knob and it’s been previously seen on the 2014 BMW X5 (F15) prototype. The iDrive Touch system will debut with the next X5 in Fall 2013 as that comes before the 4 Series Gran Coupe’s expected debut in 2014.

Inside is some official information on the upcoming iDrive Touch system and a video demonstration.

The … CONTINUED

Preh GmbH, an automotive supplier to BMW, Audi, and Mercedes, of climate controls, driver controls, sensor systems, ECUs, and instruments panels, has released a clip which previews some of the uses and functions which a touchpad iDrive controller could incorporate and facilitate.

A prototype touchpad iDrive controller system has already been spied on the 2014 BMW X5 (F15) test mule, so we can expect it to begin appearing on BMW models by the end of 2013 / early 2014 with the release of the 2014 X5.

Some of the features shown in the video (such as blackpanel surfaces) do not apply, as it was part of a new center console design concept presented by Preh as the 2007 IAA, but what’s interesting is seeing the use of an … CONTINUED

The next generation 2014 X5 (F15) continues its cold weather testing and our spies have spotted the F15 interior for the first time. Below are images of two different prototype X5s, each having different gauges and iDrive buttons. It seems that final designs on those two parts have not yet been finalized and are still undergoing evaluation. The first design seen below shows a larger iDrive button design which features a touchpad surface on top. This dash also features a full black panel display.

Following on the design of the new 6 series (F12/13), 1 series hatchback (F20/21) and new 3 series (F30), the next X5 will feature a large free-standing navigation/infotainment LCD screen. This screen looks to the 8.8 inch panel used in the 6 … CONTINUED