BMW is expanding its Neue Klasse electric vehicle line-up with the new iX4, a coupé-style electric SUV that combines a sportier design with new battery technology, faster charging and an updated digital interior.
The new model is scheduled to launch in March 2027, initially with two all-wheel-drive variants. The range-topping iX4 M60 xDrive will follow shortly afterwards, bringing 450kW and a claimed 0-100km/h time of 3.9 seconds.
The iX4 adopts BMW’s latest Neue Klasse design language, with a sloping roofline, short overhangs and a distinctive front end that combines the kidney grille and twin headlights into a single graphic element. At the rear, slim horizontal lights, sculpted surfaces and a pronounced spoiler give the electric SUV coupé a more distinctive appearance.
All versions will come standard with the M Sport package, including 20-inch M light-alloy wheels and M Sport brakes with blue callipers. The iX4 M60 xDrive gets 21-inch wheels as standard, while wheels measuring up to 22 inches will be available as options across the range.
BMW will also offer its Iconic Glow exterior package, which includes adaptive headlights and a non-dazzling high-beam assistant. The package comes standard on the M60 xDrive and is optional on the other variants. A panoramic sunroof with climate comfort glazing is standard across the range.
A digital-focused cabin with BMW Panoramic iDrive
Inside, the iX4 follows the Neue Klasse approach with a minimalist dashboard, premium materials and a focus on driver-oriented technology. BMW says the electric architecture also allows for generous passenger space, with good legroom and headroom despite the coupé-style roofline.
The centrepiece is BMW Panoramic iDrive, running on BMW Operating System X. It combines BMW Panoramic Vision, a 3D head-up display and a 17.9-inch central touchscreen. The standard sports steering wheel features a central upper spoke and integrated controls, while the M60 xDrive gets a model-specific M Sport steering wheel with a 12 o’clock marker and shift paddles.
Drivers can also customise the vehicle’s sound, lighting, displays and driving characteristics through My Modes. BMW Digital Premium adds in-car applications, including M-specific functions that display driving data and vehicle information.
Seat options include electrically adjustable seats with memory, while the M60 xDrive gets ten-way electrically adjustable M Sport seats as standard. The rear seatback folds in a 40:20:40 split. A seven-speaker, 205-watt sound system is standard, with a 13-speaker, 430-watt Harman Kardon system featuring Dolby Atmos fitted to the M60 xDrive.
Up to 828km of range and 400kW charging
The iX4 uses BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, which introduces cylindrical battery cells, an 800V electrical architecture and more efficient electric motors. BMW says the system supports DC charging at up to 400kW, longer driving ranges and bidirectional charging functionality.
At launch, buyers will have two versions to choose from:
– BMW iX4 50 xDrive: Produces 345kW and 645Nm from its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. It uses a 108.7kWh usable battery, accelerates from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds and has a claimed range of up to 828km. Its top speed is 210km/h.
– BMW iX4 40 xDrive: Delivers 275kW and 520Nm, with a 0-100km/h time of 5.6 seconds and a claimed range of up to 638km.
The iX4 50 xDrive’s maximum DC charging rate of 400kW allows BMW to claim that a 10-minute charging stop can add up to 387km of range under suitable conditions.
BMW iX4 M60 xDrive adds 450kW
The range-topping BMW iX4 M60 xDrive will join the line-up shortly after the first two models. It produces 450kW and 875Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds. Its electronically limited top speed is 240km/h, while its claimed range reaches up to 777km.
The M60 xDrive comes with adaptive M suspension, electronically controlled shock absorbers, variable-ratio sport steering and an electronically controlled M locking differential at the rear axle. Drivers also get M Sport and M Sport Plus driving modes.
Across the range, BMW’s Heart of Joy computer manages key driving and powertrain functions. The system forms part of the Neue Klasse software architecture and is designed to respond faster while improving the way the vehicle manages performance and handling.
Driver assistance and launch timing
The new iX4 will offer a range of driver assistance and parking systems. BMW’s Motorway Assistant enables hands-free driving at speeds of up to 130km/h on approved roads in markets where the feature is permitted. The system can also assist with lane changes on suitable routes.
BMW says the iX4 will launch in March 2027, with the two initial drive variants available first. The M60 xDrive will follow, with orders opening in January 2027. BMW South Africa has not yet confirmed whether the new iX4 will be introduced to the local market.
