BMW iX4 trades boot space for extra electric range
Words: Kyle Cassidy
BMW has revealed the iX4, a sleeker sibling to the iX3 that promises up to around 827km between charges. Its coupé-style roofline improves aerodynamic efficiency, giving the 50 xDrive approximately 27km more range than the equivalent iX3.
There’s a familiar trade-off: the tapered rear cuts boot capacity by 30 litres to 490 litres. A small ducktail spoiler helps manage airflow while adding to the sportier appearance.
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M Sport trim will be standard, with no equivalent of the iX3’s basic trim level.
The 40 xDrive produces 275kW and 520Nm, with a claimed range of approximately 637km. Stepping up to the 50 xDrive brings 345kW and 645Nm, along with the headline range figure.
A hotter M60 xDrive will follow, taking aim at the Tesla Model Y Performance with 450kW, 875Nm and a provisional range of around 777km. It also gets adaptive sports suspension as standard, an option on the other two versions.
BMW’s launch specifications put the 40 xDrive’s 0–100km/h time at 5.6 seconds. The 50 xDrive trims that to 4.9 seconds, while the M60’s provisional time is 3.9 seconds.
The 50 xDrive uses a battery with 108.7kWh of usable capacity and supports DC charging at up to 400kW through the car’s 800V architecture. BMW claims a suitable high-power charger can add up to approximately 386km of driving range in ten minutes, with actual performance dependent on charging and battery conditions. The range claims use the WLTP test cycle.
Inside, the iX4 follows the iX3’s layout, combining a 17.9-inch central touchscreen with BMW’s Panoramic iDrive display across the base of the windscreen. Folding the rear seats opens up 1600 litres of luggage space, 150 litres less than in the more upright iX3.
For Kiwi buyers, New Zealand pricing and final local specifications have yet to be confirmed.
