BMW has revived the Neue Klasse title, however not as a sequence of sedans and coupes. As an alternative 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. Almost each car 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 increase the lineup, others are anticipated to switch current fashions. We’ve already mentioned the robust chance that the iX5 and iX7 will function oblique successors to the present 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 world mannequin, not restricted to China like right this moment’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 right this moment’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 vehicles 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 could proceed till 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 spectacular figures. Except 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 would possibly desire the basic three-box sedan with a virtually flat roof, however many purchasers admire the glossy coupe-esque silhouette. The sloping roofline reduces rear headroom, however the liftback format gives simpler loading for bulkier gadgets, one thing a standard trunk can’t match.
The i3 Touring Might Be part of The i3 Sedan
That stated, consumers wanting a tailgate with out resorting to an SUV could quickly have an alternative choice: an electrical 3 Sequence Touring (“NA1”) is reportedly on the best way. 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 might be a disgrace to shrink the GC lineup down to only the infant 2 Sequence.
Extra selection is at all times welcome, however that’s simpler stated than completed. Sustaining two carefully 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 right down to value and whether or not BMW believes a brand new i4 would justify the funding. Lengthy story brief: Would sufficient folks purchase one?
Even when the corporate decides in opposition to one other electrical Gran Coupe, the i4 title could stay on via two-door fashions. Experiences recommend a coupe (“NA2”) and a convertible (“NA3”) are into consideration, with the previous having higher odds of reaching manufacturing. Both approach, the next-generation i4 received’t be a part of BMW’s preliminary 40-plus Neue Klasse rollout.
