BMW Launches Electric iX4 Coupe-SUV with 603 HP M60 Variant

Key points

• The iX4 shares its wheelbase, length, and width with the iX3 but features a dramatically sloped roofline, reducing cargo space and rear headroom.
• The base 50 xDrive model produces 463 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds with a 428-mile range estimate.
• The M60 xDrive variant boosts output to 603 hp and 645 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph.
• Both models utilize an 800-volt architecture supporting 400 kW DC fast charging, adding 184 miles of range in 10 minutes.
• The iX4 50 xDrive starts at $66,200, while the M60 xDrive is expected to follow shortly after the initial launch.
• The vehicle features BMW's 'Heart of Joy' electronic control unit and a 17.9-inch trapezoidal touchscreen with Panoramic Vision display.

Background

BMW previously discontinued the gas-powered X4, signaling a shift toward electric-only variants for the coupe-SUV segment. Earlier reports indicated the iX4 would replace the X4 as part of BMW's broader Neue Klasse strategy, which also includes the i3 sedan and iX3 SUV. The brand had previously explored two-door i4 coupes and convertibles, but the iX4 represents the first electric crossover coupe in the lineup.

How outlets are covering it

Jalopnik emphasizes the iX4's dramatic styling and its role in continuing BMW's legacy in the crossover coupe segment, noting that the M60 variant offers performance comparable to the M3 Competition. Car and Driver focuses on the M60's 603-hp output and its position within the broader EV SUV market. MotorTrend highlights the technical similarities between the iX4 and iX3, noting that the iX4 is essentially a cut-roof version of the iX3 with standard M Sport styling. BMWBLOG provides detailed comparisons between the iX4 M60 and other BMW M Performance models, such as the i4 M60 and the upcoming electric M3, noting that the iX4 M60's 603 hp is slightly lower than the expected 620-630 hp for the electric M3.

Why it matters

The iX4 represents BMW's commitment to maintaining niche body styles in the electric era, countering the trend of consolidating SUVs into fewer, more generic models. Its launch also signals BMW's strategy to compete with Chinese EVs by offering high-performance, long-range electric vehicles with distinctive design. The M60 variant's performance and pricing will influence the market for premium electric SUVs, potentially setting a benchmark for competitors.

What to watch

BMW expects to launch the iX4 50 xDrive in March 2027, followed by the M60 xDrive later in the year. The company is also planning to introduce a cheaper, less-powerful iX4 40 model, potentially with rear-wheel drive. Further details on pricing for the M60 and the iX4 40 are expected in the coming months.