BMW’s 4 Series Remains a Key Model, Retaining Combustion Engines Alongside EVs

• BMW considers the 4 Series a crucial part of its lineup.
• A new generation will launch alongside the upcoming 3 Series.
• Expect both traditional combustion and electric variants.

Rumors about the discontinuation of BMW’s 4 Series have been circulating for some time, but recent updates make it clear the model is here to stay. While some manufacturers are reducing their two-door options, BMW is doubling down on the 4 Series' future.

The Munich-based automaker is actively developing the next 4 Series, which will debut alongside the new “Neue Klasse” 3 Series as a sportier, design-oriented alternative. Enthusiasts can also look forward to a new M4 model.

Combustion and Electric Powertrains Expected

The 4 Series became a standalone model in 2013 after splitting from the 3 Series and entered its second generation in 2020. It also laid the groundwork for the fully electric i4. Despite the 3 Series pivoting towards an electric-first “Neue Klasse” platform, BMW has confirmed the gas-powered 4 Series coupe will continue.

Joachim Post, BMW’s head of research and development, shared with Autocar that the 4 Series remains a vital part of BMW’s sporty image and performance legacy. He emphasized, "The 4 Series is an important car for us. It’s sportier, and BMW is a sporty brand with a clear performance heritage. It will continue to play an important role going forward."

This marks the first official word about the third-generation 4 Series. In contrast, Audi has discontinued the A5 Coupe, and Mercedes-Benz has merged its coupe offerings into the new CLE. BMW is seizing this opportunity to maintain its presence in the coupe market.

Even though coupes and convertibles sell less than sedans, BMW benefits from shared development costs. Post explained, "Whenever we do a 3 Series or X3, we also think about the 4 Series or X4. That way, we can create synergies and build derivatives more easily." This also hints at the continuation of BMW’s SUV coupes like the upcoming X4 and a likely new X6.

The Future M4 and Powertrain Innovations

The upcoming 4 Series will be built on the Neue Klasse architecture, supporting various powertrain options. The next i4, closely related to the forthcoming i3 EV, is expected alongside efficient gasoline versions.

Reports suggest the electric variant might feature a battery capacity up to 108 kWh, offering an estimated range exceeding 497 miles under WLTP standards. However, the most exciting news for performance fans is the M4’s future.

Post indicated that performance derivatives often originate from these models, hinting at the next-generation M4. BMW has revealed that the new M3 will offer two powertrain options: one fully electric with four motors and advanced torque vectoring, and another retaining the internal combustion engine with an updated S58 inline-six. It’s expected the M4 will follow this dual approach.

Post also highlighted BMW's advantage with next-gen gasoline engines designed to meet upcoming Euro 7 emission standards, providing more flexibility than many competitors.