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BMW iX4 Debuts as Most Powerful X4 Ever
BMW has unveiled the new iX4, an electric SUV that replaces the X4 and becomes the most powerful X4 ever made, with 603 hp and a 0-62 mph time of 3.9 seconds.
By Charlotte Redford · 5 min read
BMW has revived the X4 as an electric vehicle, launching the new iX4 as part of its Neue Klasse family. The new model is the most powerful X4 ever produced, with the M60 xDrive version developing 603 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque. That output eclipses the previous range-topper, the X4 M Competition, which made 503 hp and 479 lb-ft.
The iX4 M60 xDrive accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in a claimed 3.9 seconds, just shy of the 3.8-second estimate BMW published for the facelifted X4 M Competition in 2021. Top speed is capped at 149 mph, well below the 178 mph achieved by the F98 X4 M. The new electric SUV uses a dual-motor setup and a 112.2 kWh battery pack, with a revised rear motor featuring a new stator and a more powerful inverter.
Dimensionally, the iX4 is only marginally larger than the outgoing G02 X4. It is half an inch longer, less than an inch wider, and actually half an inch shorter in height, while the wheelbase grows by two inches (25 mm). The design stays true to the X4's sporty brief, with a sloping hatch and a subtle rear spoiler, though M60 versions get a more prominent one. Larger 22-inch wheels are available, and a higher beltline gives the new model a more upright stance. The M mirrors and roof spoiler from the previous M and M Performance models are gone.
Inside, the iX4 adopts the Neue Klasse cabin layout, which means a panoramic glass roof replaces the old X4's smaller opening unit. Leather remains optional, and cargo and passenger space are unlikely to suffer. The steering wheel and the shift to haptic controls instead of physical buttons are likely to divide opinion. A panoramic display replaces the traditional driver's gauge cluster, and BMW has added AI-assisted voice commands for more conversational interaction.
Technology features carried over from the previous X4 include built-in navigation, app integration, a head-up display, and wireless phone charging. The iX4 supports DC fast charging at up to 400 kW and AC charging at 15.4 kW, though BMW has not yet released a driving range figure or charging times for the M60 xDrive. The iX4 joins the growing Neue Klasse line-up, which includes the iX3 M60 xDrive that shares the same 603 hp powertrain.
The new iX4 represents a significant shift for BMW's mid-size coupe-SUV, trading the old model's combustion engines for electric power while maintaining its sporty character. The previous X4 M Competition, with its 503 hp, was the most powerful X4 until now, but the iX4 M60 xDrive surpasses it by a wide margin. However, the electric model's lower top speed and slightly slower 0-62 mph time compared to the X4 M Competition suggest that outright straight-line speed is not the only measure of performance.
BMW has not announced pricing or a launch date for the iX4, but the model is expected to arrive in showrooms as part of the brand's expanding electric range. The iX4's introduction follows the unveiling of the iX3 M60 xDrive, which uses the same dual-motor setup and battery capacity. Both models are built on the Neue Klasse architecture, which emphasises customisation and app integration.
The iX4's design is a clear departure from the G02 X4, with a completely new suit for the Neue Klasse generation. The tail lights appear slightly larger than on other Neue Klasse models, and the overall look is described as good, if a bit disconnected from the previous generation. The interior is unmistakably new, with the panoramic display and haptic controls marking a significant change in how drivers interact with the car.
For buyers, the iX4 offers more power and a more modern interior, but it also loses some of the old X4's character, such as the M mirrors and the opening glass roof. The new model's top speed is limited to 149 mph, which may disappoint those who valued the X4 M's 178 mph maximum. Nevertheless, the iX4 M60 xDrive's 3.9-second sprint to 62 mph makes it quicker than a rear-wheel-drive BMW M3, according to BMW.
The iX4 is part of BMW's broader push into electric vehicles, joining the iX3 and other Neue Klasse models. The company has not yet confirmed a full specification list or UK pricing, but the iX4 is expected to go on sale in the coming months. The model will compete in the growing electric coupe-SUV segment, where rivals include the Tesla Model Y and the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron.
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