BMW reportedly plans electric i4 Cabrio for 2028

Following the impending end of the BMW i4 Gran Coupé, the Munich-based automaker apparently plans to introduce a fully electric i4 Cabriolet. According to insider information, the model is said to be developed under the internal code NA3 and will be based on the Neue Klasse electric architecture. First spy shots have already emerged. According to the independent BMW Blog, the lifestyle model due in 2028 will feature four seats and a classic fabric soft top, similar to the convertible version of the combustion-powered BMW 4 Series. As BMW is developing the vehicle from the ground up as a battery-electric model based on the Neue Klasse platform introduced with the new iX3, it is no longer constrained by the packaging requirements of combustion-engine architectures. This allows for shorter overhangs and a potentially longer wheelbase, creating more interior space and improving comfort despite the compact exterior dimensions. The design is expected to feature a closed-off front end, aerodynamic wheels and a radically simplified cabin interface. An i4 Cabrio would underline BMW’s commitment to a high-margin niche segment, despite the recent discontinuation of several other roadster and convertible model lines. Initially, however, the battery-electric model is expected to remain alongside its combustion-powered counterpart. According to BMW Blog, BMW plans to offer the i4 Cabrio alongside the combustion-engine 4 Series Cabrio (G23). Production of the latter at the Dingolfing plant is reportedly set to continue until mid-2029. Early spy shots show that the i4 Cabrio prototype already features production-ready body panels, while BMW is still using provisional headlight and taillight units. The final lighting signature is expected to align with the design language of the new i3 saloon. Details such as red brake calipers point to sporty variants, including an M Sport package. Whether BMW will also launch a dedicated M version of the battery-electric convertible remains unclear. However, such a move would not come as a surprise. Inside, the i4 Cabrio is expected to adopt the Neue Klasse’s radically simplified interior concept. BMW has significantly reduced the number of physical controls and replaced the familiar iDrive rotary controller with a new operating concept already introduced in other Neue Klasse models. The i4 Cabrio is thus expected to carry over the minimalist cockpit design of the i3 saloon while adapting it to the brand’s open-top model range. Interestingly, BMW is reportedly preparing to launch the i4 Cabrio while planning to phase out the i4 Gran Coupé, which debuted in 2021. The recently launched i3 saloon occupies a similar size class but is based on the Neue Klasse platform, placing it technically well ahead of the outgoing i4, which uses the mixed-architecture CLAR platform. According to BMW Blog, at least one year is expected to separate the end of production of the current i4 Gran Coupé and the launch of the i4 Cabrio. Adding to the naming complexity, the i4 Cabrio is expected to be closely aligned technically with the i3 saloon and the recently announced i3 Touring. bmwblog.com, bmwblog.com (spy shots)