New Zealand Welcomes the Updated BMW i4 Gran Coupé
The BMW i4 Gran Coupé is making a highly anticipated comeback to New Zealand, with a refreshed design, enhanced technology, and a longer drive range. Arriving before the end of 2025, the new i4 will be offered in a single, high-spec variant: the i4 eDrive40. This move solidifies BMW’s commitment to electrification in the NZ market and gives local buyers a more refined and capable electric sedan to consider in a growing EV landscape.
Variant and Pricing
NZ buyers will have access to one trim level of the updated i4, the eDrive40. Priced from $124,900, the model positions itself as a premium option within the competitive mid-range EV sector. The pricing reflects a balance between cutting-edge technology and the practicality of everyday driving, targeting customers who want luxury, performance, and efficiency in one package.
Design Tweaks and Aesthetic Refresh
The redesigned i4 carries BMW’s latest design language, delivering a sharper silhouette, improved aerodynamics, and a more dynamic front fascia. Subtle changes to lines and creases give the four-door coupe a more modern presence on NZ roads while preserving the i4’s distinctive character. Expect refined exterior lighting, updated wheels, and a cabin that emphasizes minimalism with high-quality materials.
Technology and Cabin Upgrades
Inside, the i4 eDrive40 benefits from a suite of enhanced tech features aimed at improving comfort, convenience, and driving confidence. Expect an updated infotainment system with faster response times and more intuitive interfaces, along with improved driver-assistance tech that helps during daily commutes and longer trips. A focus on sustainable materials and refined switchgear also enhances the overall tactile feel of the interior.
Performance and Efficiency
The i4 eDrive40 continues to offer an electric driving experience that blends performance with efficiency. While the exact EPA or WLTP range can vary with driving conditions, the refreshed model is tuned to optimize energy use across urban and highway speeds, delivering smooth acceleration, strong mid-range torque, and confident high-speed cruising. BMW’s traction and stability systems work in concert with the single-motor, rear- or all-wheel-drive setup (depending on the spec) to deliver predictable handling in NZ’s diverse road conditions.
Charging and Real-World Use
Charging capabilities are a crucial part of any modern EV. The updated i4 eDrive40 is designed to support rapid DC charging and convenient AC charging, helping owners top up during weekend trips to scenic NZ locations or city commutes. BMW NZ likely equips the i4 with charge latency optimization and energy-saving modes, ensuring drivers can maximize range without sacrificing everyday usability.
What This Means for NZ EV Buyers
The return of the i4 Gran Coupé with an updated, tech-forward package reinforces New Zealand’s growing appetite for premium electric vehicles. The single-spec approach simplifies choice for buyers who want a turnkey, well-equipped EV with strong performance credentials. For existing BMW i4 enthusiasts, the new model offers a reason to upgrade or upgrade their EV portfolios, while for newcomers, it provides a compelling entry point into the brand’s electric lineup.
Competition and Market Context
In a market with rising interest in EV sedans and gran coupés, the updated i4 faces competition from other luxury EVs offering long-range capability and advanced tech. BMW’s strategy of focusing on a single, well-equipped variant helps streamline local dealer stock, support clearer pricing, and ensure buyers receive a cohesive ownership experience with strong after-sales support and access to BMW’s i* network of charging and maintenance services.
Availability and Next Steps
BMW New Zealand has confirmed the i4 eDrive40 will arrive before the end of 2025. Local buyers can expect nationwide showrooms to feature the new model, with test-drive opportunities and full vehicle demonstrations. For those considering a leap into premium electric mobility, the i4 eDrive40 represents BMW’s refined approach to the growing EV segment in New Zealand.
