Despite a shrinking market for coupes, BMW is committed to continuing production of the 4-Series, including both combustion engine and electric versions. This decision, confirmed by BMW’s head of engineering Joachim Post, demonstrates the brand’s willingness to adapt rather than abandon the segment. The upcoming third-generation 4-Series will leverage platform synergies with the next-gen 3-Series to reduce development costs, ensuring its viability in an evolving automotive landscape.
Coupe Relevance in a Changing Market
The automotive industry is shifting rapidly toward electrification, and manufacturers are streamlining portfolios. Competitors like Audi have discontinued the A5 Coupe, and Mercedes-Benz has consolidated its coupe offerings. This leaves BMW with an opportunity to solidify its position in the coupe market. Post emphasizes the 4-Series’ importance to BMW’s sporty brand identity, stating it is “not expensive” to produce thanks to shared development with the 3-Series.
Platform Synergies and Future Powertrains
BMW’s strategy relies on “high synergies” between models like the 4-Series, X4, and X6. By utilizing shared components, BMW can offer lower-volume body styles without the full cost of entirely new platforms. The next-generation 4-Series is expected to feature both combustion and electric versions.
- Combustion models will use an updated version of the CLAR platform, also found in the next 3-Series.
- Electric versions will ride on BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture, which also underpins the upcoming i3 and iX3.
This dual-platform approach allows BMW to cater to diverse consumer preferences while maintaining efficiency. An electric iM4 Coupe is now highly plausible, given the confirmation of an electric iM3 using the Neue Klasse platform.
V8s and Euro 7 Compliance
Contrary to speculation about phasing out high-performance engines, BMW has confirmed its next-generation engines will comply with Euro 7 regulations without significant investment. The current twin-turbo 3.0-liter S58 straight-six (used in the M3 and M4) will continue in a mild-hybrid form, and even larger engines – including the 6.75-liter V12 powering Rolls-Royce vehicles – are safe for the foreseeable future.
“We can fulfill Euro 7 with some optimization… so that’s why we have a big advantage in that Euro 7 is not that high an investment for us,” Post explained.
This ensures BMW can continue offering high-performance models alongside its growing EV lineup, satisfying both traditional enthusiasts and environmentally conscious buyers.
BMW’s commitment to the 4-Series, along with its continued development of combustion engines, signals a balanced approach to the future of automotive performance. By leveraging platform synergies and adapting to regulatory changes, BMW aims to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
