BMW is betting on the new electric iX4 to strengthen its position in the electric vehicle market, combining a range of up to 428 miles according to estimates from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, an 800-volt electrical architecture, and fast charging that recovers up to 184 miles in 10 minutes. The vehicle belongs to the next generation of BMW vehicles built on the Neue Klasse platform and features an SUV design with a sloping roof more closely resembling that of a coupe.
Two Versions and Strong Performance
BMW will begin launching the iX4 50 xDrive in March 2027 at a starting price of $66,200, before destination and handling charges. Later in 2027, the higher-performance M60 xDrive will arrive.
Both versions use two electric motors. The 50 xDrive produces 463 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque and accelerates from zero to 60 miles per hour in 4.7 seconds. The M60 xDrive reaches 603 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque, reducing the acceleration time by about one second compared with the base version.
A Battery and Charging System Focused on Range
The iX4 uses a Gen6 battery with cylindrical lithium-ion cells measuring 46 millimeters in diameter and 95 millimeters in height, providing 112.2 kilowatt-hours of usable energy. BMW says energy density has increased by 20% compared with prismatic Gen5 cells.
BMW is replacing conventional modules with a “pack-to-open-body” construction, in which the battery casing contributes to forming the vehicle floor, helping reduce weight and increase torsional rigidity. The vehicle can accept direct-current charging at up to 400 kilowatts, with charging from 10% to 80% taking 21 minutes. The model also uses an NACS port, enabling compatibility with more than 80,000 Tesla Supercharger connectors worldwide.
What Changes in Practice?
Neue Klasse is not limited to improving range; the electrically excited synchronous motor on the rear axle uses electricity instead of permanent magnets to operate the stator and rotor. BMW says this design reduces energy losses in the powertrain by 40% and cuts weight by 10%.
The vehicle receives the Panoramic iDrive system, which displays information across the lower section of the windshield, along with a 17.9-inch central screen through which up to six elements, such as navigation, weather, and media, can be dragged to the forward display. The vehicle also supports bidirectional charging, including vehicle-to-load and vehicle-to-home functions, as well as Plug & Charge through ten charging providers.
Competition and Limitations
The iX4 surpasses the Tesla Model Y in range according to the announced figures, but it starts at a higher price. Tesla also offers a supervised self-driving option, while BMW provides the Level 2-rated Symbiotic Drive system, allowing the driver to adjust the steering or press the brakes without disabling the assistance functions. The iX4 supports hands-free driving on highways, but it does not offer point-to-point assisted driving; the article says this capability will not arrive before 2027 at the earliest.
The model therefore represents an important expansion of BMW’s electric lineup, but its price, the availability of infrastructure capable of supporting 400-kilowatt charging, and the difference in driver-assistance functions remain decisive factors when comparing it with competitors. The range and charging figures provided here are also announced or estimated figures, and actual results may vary depending on usage conditions.