BMW revived the Neue Klasse name, but not as a series of sedans and coupes. Instead of repeating the strategy from over 60 years ago, Neue Klasse today stands for a comprehensive product portfolio. In the first wave alone, BMW plans to bring 40 new or updated models onto the market by the end of 2027. Almost every vehicle in the brand’s lineup will build on innovations introduced last month with the next-generation iX3.
The all-new SUV marks the beginning of a broad family of electric vehicles that will come to market in rapid succession. While some New Class electric vehicles will expand the range, others are expected to replace existing models. We’ve already discussed the strong possibility that the iX5 and iX7 will serve as indirect successors to the current iX. Likewise, it’s worth asking whether BMW still needs the i4, considering that an i3 sedan is just around the corner.
Will the i3 sedan collide with the i4 Gran Coupe?
The i3 “NA0” sedan is set to launch next year as a truly global model and will no longer be limited to China like today’s long-wheelbase CLAR-based 3 Series EV (“G28”). Once it launches, it will inevitably overlap with the i4 Gran Coupe, and logic suggests it will cannibalize a significant portion of its sales.
That brings us to today’s question: Does BMW still need an electric Gran Coupe? Munich is a master of spin-off models, so the future of the i4 may not be sealed yet. The two cars will continue to coexist for a while. The “G26” i4 is rumored to remain in production until mid-2028, while its two-door “G22” coupe and “G23” convertible siblings may continue production until mid-2029.
But who would buy an i4 Gran Coupe once the i3 is here? The newcomer is sure to have far better specs, especially if it mirrors the impressive numbers of the 2027 iX3. Unless BMW builds another i4 with new-class technology, the i3 will inevitably make the Gran Coupe look dated. Not just in terms of hardware, but also in terms of design and vehicle technology.
Should BMW invest in a next-generation i4 Gran Coupe? Traditionalists may prefer the classic three-box sedan with a nearly flat roof, but many customers appreciate the sleek, coupe-like silhouette. The sloping roofline reduces rear headroom, but the liftback layout makes it easier to load bulkier items, something a traditional trunk can’t keep up with.
The i3 Touring could join the i3 sedan
However, buyers who want a hatchback without resorting to an SUV may soon have another option: an electric 3 Series Touring (“NA1”) is reportedly on the way. Ideally, BMW would develop a new i4 Gran Coupe to satisfy those who value style over practicality. With the 8 Series Gran Coupe soon to be retired, it would be a shame to limit the GC offering to the small 2 Series.
More variety is always welcome, but that’s easier said than done. Retaining two closely related models adds complexity at a time when BMW’s product range is entering a period of major change. Still, converting the i3 into a five-door liftback wouldn’t be an insurmountable challenge. Ultimately it comes down to cost and whether BMW believes a new i4 would justify the investment. Long story short: Would enough people buy one?
Even if the company decides against another electric Gran Coupe, the i4 name could live on through two-door models. A coupe (“NA2”) and a convertible (“NA3”) are reportedly being considered, with the former having a better chance of going into production. Whatever the case, the next-generation i4 will not be part of BMW’s initial launch of the New Class 40+.
