by Key Features of the new iX4
Following the successful launch of the second-generation iX3, which proved BMW’s ability to compete with new Chinese electric vehicles, the German brand is not wasting time and is preparing a more streamlined version — the iX4. Sales of the iX3 were so strong that the appearance of a coupe-like sibling is a completely logical step.
Design and First Impressions
The iX4 is expected to appear in most markets as early as next year. It was first spotted during winter tests, and now photographers have “caught” the model on the Nürburgring track. Thanks to the tight-fitting camouflage that hugs the body, the general contours of the car, which look significantly more aerodynamic than those of the iX3, can be clearly seen.
Read also: New BMW iX4 gets a coupe-like silhouette, but you will feel the difference in equipment
At the front, almost complete similarity with the iX3 is expected: the Neue Klasse-style headlights and the signature “kidney” grille will carry over to the new model unchanged. The main differences lie behind the front doors: the roofline drops significantly lower than in the iX3 and smoothly transitions into a steeply raked rear window above a short tailgate. A small spoiler at the rear will provide a slight aerodynamic boost. The prototype is also equipped with new 22-inch five-spoke wheels, the style of which differs from anything we have seen before.
Interior and Technology
The interior of the iX4 follows the logic of the exterior. Just as the current X4 is a mirror image of the X3, the iX4 will share its cabin with the iX3, differing only in minor details. The main feature will be the Panoramic iDrive display, which debuted on the latest X5. It includes a 17.9-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, located below a thin driver display that stretches across the entire width of the windshield.
Powertrains and Charging
The iX3 is built on an 800-volt architecture that supports charging speeds of up to 400 kW. The iX4 will undoubtedly get the same specifications. On a compatible fast charger, this means significantly less time spent waiting for the battery to top up.
Several versions of the iX4 will be offered, and the lineup is expected to mirror that of the iX3. Recently published specifications from the US BMW site suggest the model range will start with the 40 xDrive and 50 xDrive versions, with other variants arriving later. The more powerful version, the 50 xDrive, is expected to use the same 108.7 kWh battery pack as the iX3, with two electric motors producing 463 hp and 645 Nm of torque. This will allow the coupe-like SUV to accelerate to 100 km/h in the same 4.9 seconds as the iX3.
A “hot” iX4 M version with four motors is expected to join the lineup later, offering more power and specialized chassis updates.
Production and Competitors
BMW is expected to unveil the iX4 this fall, with production expected to begin by the end of the year. The model will not be built in Germany: assembly will take place at the BMW plant in Debrecen, Hungary. When the iX4 arrives in showrooms, its main competitors will be the Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron and the Tesla Model Y.
It is worth noting that BMW’s strategy of producing coupe-like versions of its SUVs has been successful for a long time. Despite having less practical rear space due to the sloping roof, such models often attract buyers who prioritize style over functionality. In the case of the iX4, the company is betting that combining advanced Neue Klasse technology with a more dynamic design will allow it to occupy a niche between the practical iX3 and future flagship models. Considering that production has been moved to Hungary, this may also indicate cost and logistics optimization for the European market, which is a critical factor in the face of stiff competition from Chinese brands.
