The 2026 BMW i4 electric vehicle lineup is receiving significant technical updates. These changes focus on both efficiency and performance, enhancing the appeal of the electric Gran Coupe. The most popular models gain driving range, while the top-tier performance model gets a substantial power boost and a new name. Production for the 2026 i4 line will begin in November, bringing these improvements to customers soon. These updates demonstrate BMW’s continued commitment to refining its successful EV platform.
New Inverter Technology Improves Efficiency
A key update for the 2026 model year is the adoption of silicon carbide (SiC) inverters. These advanced components were previously announced for the i5 range. The SiC inverters are integrated into the power electronics. This technology makes the energy transfer from the high-voltage battery to the electric motors more efficient. These SiC components offer greater resistance to heat than older silicon semiconductors.
Range Gains Across the Lineup
This efficiency improvement translates directly into extended driving range for the rear-wheel-drive models. The 2026 i4 eDrive40 now benefits from this SiC technology. Customers can now expect over 300 miles of range on a full charge, regardless of the wheel choice. Specifically, the eDrive40 with 18-inch wheels sees an estimated 15-mile improvement, reaching 333 miles. The 19-inch wheel package now has an estimated range of 307 miles, a 12-mile gain.
The New Flagship: i4 M60
The top of the i4 range receives more than just the efficiency benefits of the SiC inverters. The former i4 M50 is now known as the 2026 BMW i4 M60. This name change signifies a substantial step up in performance. The dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain is now significantly more potent. It solidifies its position as the ultimate electric M Performance machine.
Enhanced Standard Equipment List
The entire i4 range receives new standard and optional equipment. For instance, the Seal & Drive Tire Kit is now included as standard across all models. The optional Parking Assistant Professional package now adds the useful Drive Recorder function. For styling, black mirror caps and M Sport brakes with blue calipers are bundled into the Shadowline package. Furthermore, these attractive components are also available as standalone options. Glass Controls, which add a premium touch to the interior, are now available optionally on all i4 models.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance
The 2026 BMW i4 M60 receives a major boost in power output. It produces a starting output of 510 hp, a 41 hp increase over the outgoing M50. When the My Modes Sport setting is selected, the maximum output jumps to 593 hp. This is an impressive gain of 57 hp compared to the M50. This newfound power allows the M60 to complete the 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.6 seconds. Despite the significant power increase, the M60 also sees range improvements thanks to the SiC inverters. It has an estimated range of 278 miles with 19-inch wheels and 232 miles with 20-inch wheels.
Summary of the 2026 BMW i4 Updates
The 2026 BMW i4 update measures successfully focus on technical refinement. Using silicon carbide inverters, BMW has boosted the efficiency of its eDrive40 model, securing a 300+ mile range estimate. Additionally, the replacement of the M50 with the i4 M60 brings significant performance capability to the flagship model. The M60 now boasts up to 593 hp and a quicker 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. These improvements, combined with updated standard features, ensure the i4 remains highly competitive in the premium electric sedan segment.
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Source: BMW
