BMW is expanding its “Neue Klasse” lineup with the launch of the all-new iX4.

The compact electric SUV is similar to the iX3 but has a sloping roofline for a more coupe-like body style.

“With the new fully electric BMW iX4, we are expanding the Neue Klasse portfolio with a particularly emotional vehicle,” said Mike Reichelt, head of BMW’s Neue Klasse, in a news release.

“Its striking proportions, elegant coupe 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.”

Two electric powertrain choices

BMW revealed the new SUV coupe with a pair of electric powertrain choices.

The iX4 50 xDrive will launch the new model, set to arrive in March 2027, while the more powerful iX4 M60 xDrive will arrive sometime later. Both feature dual-motor all-wheel drive.

The EV operates on BMW’s sixth-generation electric drive technology.

The iX4 50 gets an output of 463 hp and 476 lb.-ft. of torque, which BMW said will propel the EV from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The top speed is 210 km/h.

The iX4 50 also gets a BMW-estimated driving range of up to 680 kilometres. The EV’s 112.2-kWh battery can charge at speeds up to 400 kW. BMW estimates recharging from 10 to 80 per cent could be done in as little as 21 minutes. AC charging for at-home Level 2 maxes out at 15.4 kW.

The more powerful iX4 M60 gets 603 hp and 645 lb.-ft. of torque, which BMW said will give the EV a zero to 100 km/h acceleration time of 3.9 seconds.

The top speed is 240 km/h.

Body style improves efficiency

As mentioned earlier, the iX4 is essentially an iX3 but with a coupe-like body style.

That body style improves the SUV’s aerodynamic efficiency. Thanks to its design as well as aero measures such as an active air flap control, the iX4 gets a drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd.

The sloping roofline also gives the iX4 a sportier look.

Otherwise, you get the clean look of BMW’s Neue Klasse era, including a modern BMW kidney grille integrated with the twin headlight and front sensors.

More on the iX4 M60

The more powerful iX4 M60 gets design elements of BMW M for an even sportier look, including the use of the M logo.

This model also rides on 21-inch M light-alloy wheels, has standard BMW Iconic Exterior Illumination (optional on the iX4 50), and a specially trimmed M Sport steering wheel that features a red marker at the 12 o’clock position, coloured stitching, shift paddles and two buttons that give the driver instant access to Boost Mode and M Mode.

The model also has M Sport seats, which feature an illuminated M logo and massage function.

The standard iX4 stereo system is a seven-speaker system with 205 watts while the M60 comes standard with a 13-speaker, 430-watt Harman/Kardon audio system, which features Dolby Atmos.

Modern interior meets you inside

The iX4 gets the Neue Klasse treatment on the inside.

That means the vehicle gets the BMW Panoramic iDrive, which runs on the BMW Operating System X, and includes BMW Panoramic Vision, the thin strip of pillar-to-pillar screen that replaces a typical drive display, a 17.9-inch free-cut centre screen that’s turned slightly toward the driver, a multi-function steering wheel and an optional head-up display.

The operating system can make use of a variety of apps that support video, games and more. A Video app, powered by TiVo, for example, offers a selection of content from news and live and on-demand streaming platforms, with selections constantly expanding.

The interior is also highly customizable with various material and colour options.

Canadian price

The base iX4 50 xDrive will have a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $79,900. BMW didn’t provide a price for the more powerful iX4 M60 xDrive.

The Canadian market launch date has not been provided.

For updates, visit the BMW Canada website.

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