BMW has revived the Neue Klasse identify, however not as a sequence of sedans and coupes. As a substitute of repeating the technique from over 60 years in the past, Neue Klasse now represents an all-encompassing product portfolio. Within the first wave alone, BMW plans to launch 40 new or up to date fashions by the top of 2027. Practically each automobile within the model’s lineup will construct upon improvements launched final month with the next-generation iX3.
The all-new SUV marks the beginning of a broad household of electrical autos that may debut in fast succession. Whereas some Neue Klasse EVs will develop the lineup, others are anticipated to exchange current fashions. We’ve already mentioned the robust chance that the iX5 and iX7 will function indirect successors to the current iX. Likewise, it’s value questioning whether or not BMW nonetheless wants the i4, on condition that an i3 sedan is across the nook.
Will The i3 Sedan Conflict With The i4 Gran Coupe?
The “NA0” i3 sedan is slated to reach subsequent 12 months as a real international mannequin, not restricted to China like in the present day’s CLAR-based, long-wheelbase 3 Sequence EV (“G28”). As soon as it launches, it’s sure to overlap with the i4 Gran Coupe, and logic suggests it can cannibalize a good portion of its gross sales.
That brings us to in the present day’s query: Does BMW nonetheless want an electrical Gran Coupe? Munich is a grasp of spin-off fashions, so the i4’s future may not be sealed simply but. The 2 automobiles will coexist for some time. The “G26” i4 is rumored to remain in manufacturing till mid-2028, whereas its two-door “G22” Coupe and “G23” Convertible siblings might continue until mid-2029.
However who would purchase an i4 Gran Coupe anyway as soon as the i3 arrives? The newcomer will definitely have far superior specs, particularly if it mirrors the 2027 iX3’s impressive figures. Until BMW builds one other i4 utilizing Neue Klasse expertise, the i3 will inevitably make the Gran Coupe really feel dated. Not simply when it comes to {hardware}, but in addition styling and in-car expertise.
Ought to BMW put money into a next-generation i4 Gran Coupe? Traditionalists may favor the traditional three-box sedan with a virtually flat roof, however many shoppers recognize the smooth coupe-esque silhouette. The sloping roofline reduces rear headroom, however the liftback format affords simpler loading for bulkier objects, one thing a standard trunk can’t match.
The i3 Touring May Be a part of The i3 Sedan
That stated, consumers wanting a tailgate with out resorting to an SUV might quickly have another choice: an electric 3 Series Touring (“NA1”) is reportedly on the way in which. Ideally, BMW would develop a brand new i4 Gran Coupe to fulfill those that prioritize type over practicality. With the 8 Sequence Gran Coupe nearing retirement, it will be a disgrace to shrink the GC lineup down to simply the child 2 Sequence.
Extra selection is at all times welcome, however that’s simpler stated than executed. Sustaining two intently associated fashions provides complexity simply as BMW’s lineup enters a interval of main transformation. Nonetheless, changing the i3 right into a five-door liftback wouldn’t be an insurmountable problem. Finally, it comes all the way down to value and whether or not BMW believes a brand new i4 would justify the funding. Lengthy story brief: Would sufficient individuals purchase one?
Even when the corporate decides towards one other electrical Gran Coupe, the i4 identify might reside on by way of two-door fashions. Stories recommend a coupe (“NA2”) and a convertible (“NA3”) are into account, with the previous having higher odds of reaching manufacturing. Both manner, the next-generation i4 received’t be a part of BMW’s preliminary 40-plus Neue Klasse rollout.
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