BMW’s sleek, coupe-roofed crossover is getting the electric treatment. The third-generation BMW X4, long the brand’s more extroverted sibling to the practical X3, is reinventing itself for the EV era as the BMW iX4—a fastback variant of the upcoming iX3 that promises over 500 miles of range on a single charge.
Prototypes of the new iX4 have been caught testing ahead of a global debut expected early next year, marking a major milestone for BMW: this will be the first X4 to ditch internal combustion altogether. Since its debut in 2014, the X4 has relied exclusively on petrol and diesel powertrains. Now, it’s fully electric and positioned to blend long-distance efficiency with signature BMW dynamics.
Coupe Style, Electric Substance
Visually, the iX4 closely mirrors its iX3 counterpart, sharing BMW’s latest electric design language—clean surfaces, subtle aero tweaks, and a wide stance—but the dramatically raked roofline sets it apart. The coupe silhouette enhances its sporty appeal while shaving off a few aerodynamic drag points, which in turn adds a touch more range.
That sleekness does come at a cost: rear headroom is expected to be tighter than in the iX3, but BMW believes the trade-off will appeal to style-conscious buyers looking for an EV with presence and performance.
Big Range, Bigger Ambitions
BMW is targeting more than 500 miles per charge, a figure that, if achieved, could make the iX4 the longest-range EV on sale in the UK—at least until the equally new i3 saloon arrives to challenge it on the same platform.
Like the iX3, the iX4 will ride on BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture with an 800-volt electrical system, supporting 400kW DC fast charging. That means you’ll be able to top up from 10 to 80 percent in well under 20 minutes when plugged into the right charger.
Performance to Match the Look
Under the skin, expect the familiar dual-motor setup found in the iX3 50 xDrive. Together, the front and rear motors deliver a combined 464 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, propelling the SUV from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds. That puts the iX4 in the same league as the current M40i—but with zero tailpipe emissions and a much lower center of gravity thanks to its battery pack.
BMW’s engineers are reportedly fine-tuning the chassis for sharper turn-in and better weight distribution than before, aiming to keep the X4’s traditional “sport activity coupe” personality alive in electric form.
Tech-Forward Interior
Inside, the iX4 is expected to showcase BMW’s next-generation panoramic iDrive system, headlined by a massive 17.9-inch infotainment touchscreen seamlessly integrated below a full-width driver display that spans the base of the windshield. The setup hints at a future where HUD and traditional screens blur together. Expect minimalist materials, sustainable trim options, and a design that favors clean lines over clutter.
Farewell to the Old Guard
Production of the outgoing, combustion-powered X4 is set to wrap up within weeks, clearing the decks for the electric newcomer. The timing couldn’t be better—BMW is doubling down on its EV rollout, and the iX4 is poised to become a flagship for the brand’s blend of efficiency, luxury, and driver engagement.
If the prototypes deliver on their promise, the 2026 BMW iX4 could emerge not just as a stylish alternative to the iX3, but as one of the most capable long-range EVs on the market—and perhaps the most complete expression yet of BMW’s electrified future.
Source: Autocar