Style over space: BMW's next coupe-SUV trades practicality for an electric heart

© A. Krivonosov

BMW is preparing an electric iX4 — the future replacement for today's X4. An early prototype has already been spotted during testing, with the premiere expected in around a year, in mid-2027.

The new iX4 will be a close relative of the iX3: the two models will share a platform and powertrains. But while the iX3 leans on practicality, the iX4 will get a more emotional body with a sloping roofline. The trade-off is space: rear headroom and cargo volume are likely to be smaller.

The front end will largely mirror the iX3, though the bumper may get its own design. The prototype shows arched front pillars, a smooth roofline flowing into an angular tailgate and a number plate recess in the rear bumper. The wheels could be shared with the iX3, but BMW will almost certainly prepare separate options for the iX4 in terms of rims, body colours and interior trim.

The interior is also expected in the style of the iX3: a wide display at the base of the windscreen, a large central screen, hidden air vents and a four-spoke steering wheel. BMW clearly wants Neue Klasse to be more than just a new platform — it's meant to be a distinct visual language.

The flagship version is likely to be the iX4 50 xDrive with two electric motors. Expected output is 469 hp and 645 Nm. For reference, the iX3 with the same setup is quoted at a top speed of 210 km/h, 0–100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a range of up to 805 km on the WLTP cycle.

The main question mark is the fate of the petrol X4. The current expectation is that the new generation will not get a separate ICE version. But if EV demand keeps stalling, BMW may yet rethink the plan. For now, the iX4 looks like the clearest signal yet: the brand's coupe-SUVs are also being moved into the electric era.