Neue Klasse goes coupe SUV with new BMW iX4
Where the X3 leads, the X4 is always going to follow. BMW has now pulled the covers off the iX4, its first fully electric SUV coupe, and it’s wearing the Neue Klasse design language worn by the new X3, X5 and 3 Series.
Whether you like the look or not, it shows how far BMW is willing to take Neue Klasse. The current X4 only comes with petrol and diesel engines, but the new one adds a fully electric iX4 to the line-up while also giving us a glimpse of what the next ICE-powered X4 could look like.
At this stage, only three variants of the iX4 are available: iX4 40 xDrive (275kW/520Nm), iX4 50 xDrive (345kW/645Nm) and iX4 60 xDrive (450kW/875Nm). While the power figures look exciting, it’s the electric range that has sparked interest. BMW claims the 40 xDrive and 50 xDrive variants can travel up to 638km and 828km, respectively, before requiring a charge. The 60 xDrive, on the other hand, comes with a range of up to 777km.
BMW only quotes the battery capacity for the iX4 50 xDrive, which is rated at 108kWh. The 60 xDrive should get a slightly larger pack, while the 40 xDrive will likely make do with a smaller one.
The iX4 features an 800-volt electrical architecture that also supports DC fast charging up to 400kW, which can add significant range in a matter of mere minutes. For example, BMW claims it can add about 360km of range in 10 minutes. We expect more details to be available some weeks before its local introduction.
Inside, it’s a familiar setup if you’ve seen the i3 or iX3, which is the same Neue Klasse cabin approach, with a minimalist dash and the new Panoramic iDrive display taking over from the traditional instrument cluster. To refresh your memory, there’s a BMW Panoramic iDrive, which combines BMW Panoramic Vision, a 3D head-up display, a 17.9-inch central touchscreen and a new sports steering wheel with integrated controls.
As for the timing, BMW is planning to introduce the 40 xDrive and 50 xDrive to the global market in January 2027, with the M60 order books scheduled to open shortly after. BMW hasn’t confirmed the local arrival for any of the three.
The new Neue Klasse design language has split opinions, but the iX4 is a serious EV on paper, with a claimed 828km of range and impressive 400kW charging. If BMW prices it right for SA, the electric iX4 might make more sense than the X4 ever did.
