BMW is preparing to phase out the BMW i4 as it introduces the next-generation BMW i3, reflecting a shift toward its latest electric vehicle platform and technology.
The newly unveiled i3, presented in Munich by outgoing CEO Oliver Zipse, is built on BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture and represents a significant upgrade over the i4 in terms of performance and efficiency. The i3 50 xDrive variant features a 345 kW all-wheel-drive system and is expected to offer a range of up to 900 kilometres, although final certification figures are pending.
The model also introduces an 800-volt system capable of charging from 10% to 80% in around 21 minutes at peak charging power of up to 400 kW, supported by BMW’s sixth-generation electric drivetrain technology.
By comparison, the i4—launched in 2021 and based on a multi-energy platform—offers a maximum range of 613 kilometres and peak charging power of 205 kW, highlighting the technological gap between the two models.
BMW executives indicated that the i3 will effectively take over the i4’s role in the lineup. Bernd Körber described the i3 as “more or less the successor” to the i4, while Jochen Goller noted that the transition follows a typical product lifecycle, with older models gradually phased out as new ones ramp up.
Production of the i4 is expected to end within the next one to two years, though exact timing remains uncertain. Reports suggest the phase-out could occur as early as the end of 2026 or extend into 2027, depending on market demand and production planning. Both models are manufactured at BMW’s Munich plant.
While the i4 may retain some short-term advantages, such as its larger fastback-style cargo opening, BMW is already planning additional variants of the i3, including a Touring estate version aimed at improving practicality.
The transition underscores BMW’s broader strategy to migrate its core models to dedicated electric platforms, as competition intensifies in the premium EV segment.
At the same time, BMW is expected to continue developing future iterations of the 4 Series, potentially including new electric variants, ensuring the i4 nameplate may return in a different form.
