2026 BMW i4 Debuts with More Range

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BMW has officially revealed full details of the updated 2026 BMW i4 Gran Coupé, marking a more focused approach for its popular electric sedan. The refreshed model will be offered exclusively in the entry-level eDrive 35 variant, as BMW Australia has decided to discontinue the higher-spec eDrive 40 and performance-oriented M50 versions from its local lineup. This strategic decision reflects market demand, as the eDrive 35 has consistently accounted for the majority of i4 sales since the model’s launch.

2026 i4

The 2026 BMW i4 eDrive 35 will now start from $88,900 before on-road costs, representing a $1100 price increase compared to the outgoing version. Despite the bump in pricing, BMW has improved the car’s range and added more standard features, enhancing overall value. Importantly, the new pricing keeps the i4 below Australia’s Luxury Car Tax (LCT) threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles, currently set at $91,387, though choosing additional options could still push it above that limit.

BMW’s decision to simplify the lineup follows sales data showing that, since the i4’s Australian debut in 2022, over 75 percent of the 3340 units sold have been the eDrive 35 model — equating to more than 2500 vehicles. Given this clear customer preference, the brand has concentrated its efforts on refining the most popular variant rather than maintaining multiple trim levels.

BMW i4

One of the most notable updates for 2026 is an improvement in driving range. Thanks to new silicon-carbide semiconductor technology, the i4’s energy efficiency has improved by around 4.5 percent, extending its ADR-rated range to 448 kilometres, up from the previous 430km figure. Powertrain specifications remain unchanged, with the rear-wheel-drive setup still producing 210kW and 410Nm from a single electric motor. The i4 retains its 66.4kWh usable battery capacity, capable of 11kW AC and 180kW DC fast charging, with a 0–100km/h sprint time of 6.0 seconds.

Visually, the 2026 i4 adopts a sharper and sportier look. The M Sport package—previously unavailable on the eDrive 35—is now standard, adding aggressive M bumpers, side skirts, and 18-inch M alloy wheels. The model also gains new LED headlights with redesigned daytime running light signatures and a diamond-patterned kidney grille. Inside, upgrades include an electrically operated glass sunroof, heated front seats, lumbar support, and a new M leather steering wheel with a flat bottom and 12 o’clock marker. The cabin is finished with brushed aluminium M interior trims, while new convenience additions such as tyre pressure monitoring and BMW’s ‘Tyre Repair Kit Plus’ system—featuring a built-in compressor and sealant—round out the standard equipment.

2026 BMW i4

Sales data underscores the i4’s success in BMW’s electrification strategy. In 2024, the eDrive 35 accounted for 82 percent of i4 sales, while in 2025 to date, it has grown to 93 percent of total deliveries. The model has even outsold its petrol-powered 4 Series Gran Coupé sibling by a ratio of 8:1 in 2024 and an astonishing 38:1 so far in 2025. Overall, the i4 contributes about 17 percent of BMW’s total electric vehicle sales in Australia, reinforcing its status as one of the brand’s most important EVs.

The 2026 BMW i4 Gran Coupé eDrive 35 is available for order now, with customer deliveries expected before the end of 2025. With improved range, added features, and a more dynamic appearance, BMW aims to strengthen the i4’s position as one of the most attractive luxury electric sedans in its segment.

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