BMW iX4 Coupé SUV Debuts with Neue Klasse Platform

BMW has unveiled the 2027 iX4, a coupé-style electric SUV based on its Neue Klasse platform. The new model, debuting one year after the iX3, features a 40 mm lower roofline for a sportier silhouette and improved aerodynamic efficiency.

The iX4’s design includes a fast-raked rear windscreen and a short deck with a subtle built-in spoiler. An additional lip extension incorporates the third brake light, while the hexagonal 'valley' on the tailgate houses the propeller roundel. The M Sport package is standard, giving the iX4 an aggressive appearance from launch. Its drag coefficient is 0.23, an improvement over the iX3's 0.24.

Interior and technology

The cabin carries over the Panoramic iDrive concept from the iX3. This includes a 17.9-inch parallelogram infotainment touchscreen and a 43.3-inch Panoramic Vision projection display. The iX4 retains the unconventional steering wheel with centre upper and lower spokes, though a conventional M Sport steering wheel is available as an option.

BMW claims the iX4 offers 'abundant headroom' despite the lower roofline. A standard panoramic glass roof, which lacks a powered sunshade, aids in this perception of space.

Powertrain and performance

The iX4 launches in March 2027 with two dual-motor all-wheel-drive variants. A high-performance M60 xDrive model will join the lineup soon after. The initial variants offer distinct performance and battery specifications.

Both launch variants use an 800-volt architecture, enabling a 10-80% charge in approximately 21 minutes. The iX4’s lower drag coefficient increases WLTP range by 17 km for the 40 xDrive and 23 km for the 50 xDrive compared to their iX3 counterparts with identical battery sizes. The M60 xDrive has a top speed of 240 km/h.

Practicality and features

Boot space is 490 litres, which is 30 litres less than the iX3. With the rear seats folded, capacity expands to 1,600 litres, a 150-litre reduction compared to the iX3. A 58-litre front boot, or frunk, is included.

Regular iX4 models can be optioned with adaptive dampers and sport steering, features not available on the iX3. Standard driver assistance includes autonomous emergency braking, evasive steering assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring with collision avoidance, and rear cross traffic alert with auto brake.

The optional Driving Assistant Plus adds Level 2 semi-autonomous driving with BMW Symbiotic Driving. This system allows for manual steering and mild braking without disabling the assistance. Starting next year, the iX4 will offer an optional Highway and City Assistant for hands-free driving in 21 countries. All iX4s include the necessary hardware and software for this feature at the factory, activatable later via a paid subscription.

M60 xDrive specifics

The performance-focused M60 xDrive adds unique styling and enhanced chassis components. Exterior features include a unique linear graphic on dual front panels with Iconic Glow illumination, M Yellow Lights in the daytime running lights, and smoked wide taillights with new light guides.

It also receives a more pronounced rear spoiler, bespoke door mirrors with M tricolour, standard M Sport seats, and an M Sport steering wheel with a red 12 o’clock marker and Boost/M Mode buttons. The chassis benefits from standard adaptive dampers, variable-ratio sport steering, revised spring and damper tuning, and new anti-roll bar links.

The M60 xDrive variant will join the lineup soon after launch with up to 777 km WLTP range and standard adaptive dampers.