2026 BMW i4 Update: Enhanced Performance and Range
The BMW i4 electric sedan has received significant updates for 2026, featuring a new M60 flagship variant and improved driving range for rear-wheel-drive models. The changes aim to enhance both performance and efficiency, positioning the i4 more competitively in the electric vehicle market.
New M60 Flagship Variant
The i4 M60 xDrive, set to replace the current M50 from July 2025 production, boasts a combined power output of 442kW from its dual electric motors. This represents a 42kW increase from the previous 400kW, making it more powerful than the petrol-powered M3 CS and M4 CS. The torque output remains at 795Nm. The all-wheel-drive i4 M60 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 3.7 seconds, a 0.2-second improvement over its predecessor.
Range Improvements for Rear-Wheel-Drive Models
The eDrive35 and eDrive40 rear-wheel-drive variants have been upgraded with silicon carbide semiconductor components. These changes reduce energy consumption by approximately 4.5%, potentially adding up to 22 kilometers of driving range. This enhancement addresses range anxiety and improves the overall efficiency of the i4 lineup.
Styling Updates and Feature Enhancements
The 2026 i4 features revised headlights, new tail-lights with optional laser-light technology, an updated steering wheel, and new central air-vent designs. Additionally, new alloy wheels and exterior paint colors are available, offering customers more personalization options. These updates align with the refresh unveiled in April 2024 for the global market.
Australian Market Considerations
While the updates are confirmed for international markets, BMW Australia has not provided a clear timeline for when these changes will be implemented locally. A spokesperson for BMW Australia stated that updates regarding the i4 lineup for Australia will be announced in due course. The electric i4 has been a strong seller for BMW Australia, outselling the 4 Series Gran Coupe by more than eight to one in 2024.
Broader BMW Updates
The i4 updates are part of a broader refresh across BMW’s lineup. Other changes include simplified setup for Digital Key technology, allowing for easier smartphone and smartwatch integration for vehicle access. New exterior and interior color options are also being introduced for other models like the X1 and X2, starting from July 2025 production.
As BMW continues to evolve its electric and conventional offerings, the updates to the i4 demonstrate the brand’s commitment to enhancing performance, efficiency, and customer experience across its vehicle lineup.
