BMW iX4

BMW made a statement a few months ago that the company would release 30 new or updated models before the end of 2027. And boy is it making good on that promise. Just a few days ago we reported on the latest BMW 3 Series. This week the German automaker has pulled the wraps off the first ever iX4. It joins the likes of the iX2, iX3 and IX5 as battery-powered SUV options within the larger range.

With the new fully electric BMW iX4, we are expanding the Neue Klasse portfolio with a particularly emotional vehicle. Its striking proportions, elegant coupé silhouette and Neue Klasse technologies combine to create a truly distinctive character. Blending sportiness, expressive design and innovative technology, the BMW iX4 sets a bold new accent within our fully electric BMW portfolio
– Mike Reichelt, Head of Neue Klasse

More EVs

BMW’s range of battery powered products has been growing with each passing quarter. As with the ICE versions, the BMW iX4 is a more swoopy version of the iX3. The all-new iX4 has the same front end as other Neue Klasse models, with a reimagined, crisper version of the company’s twin headlamps and ‘kidney grilles’.

As with other even-numbered X models, the iX4 has as coupe-esque roofline. In this case it terminates in a standard lip spoiler with integral third brake lamp. Wide taillamps, as with other Neue Klasse models is the order of the day. BMW is releasing the iX4 as standrd with and M Sport package. This includes 20-inch M alloy wheels and M Sport brakes with blue calipers.

High-tech Interior

The iX4 has the same smart interior as the BMW iX5 that we drove a few weeks ago. Features include a dashboard-wide display at the base of the windscreen. In addition there are digital displays ahead of the driver and a 17,9-inch touchscreen interface.

Two Powertrains

At the time of introduction BMW has released two derivatives of the iX4. The iX4 40 xDrive has one electric motor on each axle. Together, they produce maximum output of 275 kW and peak torque of 520 N.m. BMW says the iX4 40 xDrive takes 5,6 seconds from rest to 100 km/h. Its maximum range is quoted as 638 kilometres.

Slightly more powerful is an iX4 50 xDrive, which also has has one motor per axle. Combined output is quoted as 345 kW allied with peak torque of 645 N.m. This version gets from 0 to 100 km/h in 4,9 seconds. BMW says it range of up to 828 kilometres.

In 2027 an iX4 M60 xDrive will join the line-up. Considered the M Performance version, it has an M-specific all-wheel-drive applicatio. Peak power 450 kW. As a result it can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3,9 seconds. It also has an electronically limited top speed of 240 km/h. This version has a maximum range of up to 777 kilometres.

We expected that BMW would introduce the iX4 into the local market some time in 2027. However, representatives of the brand in SA tell us that the newcomer is not earmarked for local introduction.