The BMW line-up is one of the broadest of any manufacturer.
From the 1 Series hatchback to the M8 supercar and large X7 SUV, this firm has it all. But even in a line-up this varied, there is still scope for new models – particularly with the rise of electrification.
Here we have a look at what new BMWs to expect in 2020 and 2021.
iX3
With Audi, Mercedes and Jaguar all having electric SUVs already, BMW has been a bit behind the curve in this department. However, with its new iX3, the manufacturer will have soon caught up. Based on the popular X3, this electric SUV will be BMW’s first new EV since the i3 broke cover in 2013. Expect a range of around 250 miles (making it comparable with Audi and Mercedes) and for it to debut shortly, before going on sale before the end of 2020.
X2 xDrive25e/facelift
BMW is one of the best-known brands for both SUVs and plug-in hybrids, and it will be combining these factors yet again with a new electrified version of its stylish compact X2 model. With its X1 sibling already on sale with a plug-in hybrid, the more sporty-looking X2 will feature the same 1.5-litre petrol unit paired to a powerful electric motor. Expect an electric range of around 30 miles. With the X1 recently being facelifted, you can expect the same from the X2 (likely in 2021) – giving it an improved infotainment system and a bolder look.
5 Series facelift
The 5 Series is one of BMW’s core models, and remains a big-seller in the UK. And imminently we should expect to see a facelifted model arrive on sale. The manufacturer has only recently introduced mild-hybrid tech to this executive car, but later in 2020, an updated model will debut with a revised front and rear end and expected improvements on the technology front.
New 2 Series
With a new ‘Gran Coupe’ version of the new 2 Series already going on sale this year, it won’t be long before the regular Coupe and Cabriolet versions of this 1 Series-based model materialise. They’re likely to arrive at the end of 2020 or start of 2021, and be more similar from the 1 Series hatchback than ever before. Leaked images of the car show a sleek rear end and a far more angular design than the model currently on sale.
New 4 Series
With the 3 Series already being on sale for 18 months, it’s about time we saw the new 4 Series, too (essentially coupe and cabriolet versions of the saloon). BMW has recently said this model is entering its final stages of testing, which should mean that the car is unveiled before the end of 2020. It takes advantage of mild-hybrid engine technology for the first time, with a sporty 369bhp M440i xDrive already confirmed to spearhead the line-up. The Coupe will debut originally, but expect a Cabriolet and Gran Coupe in the near future as well.
Further 3 Series variants
And speaking of the new 3 Series, BMW has already shown two new variants of its popular executive model. For starters, the firm is expanding its line-up of 330e plug-in hybrid models – including the introduction of an all-wheel-drive model (they’re usually rear-wheel-drive) as well as a Touring estate model. This will be BMW’s first plug-in hybrid estate car. Also set to arrive in showrooms shortly is the M340d xDrive – a 335bhp 3.0-litre diesel, which is the most powerful of its kind to feature in the 3 Series.
i4
BMW will quickly increase its number of EVs available over the next couple of years, and following the iX3 will be the i4. BMW showcased a Concept i4 earlier this year, and that car is set to closely resemble the production model. Not too many details are known yet, though it’s set to feature an exceptionally powerful battery pack and electric motor, which BMW has said will produce 523bhp, and offer an electric range of 373 miles. Less powerful options could also follow, and it’s set to go head-to-head with the Tesla Model 3, as this is one of the most popular new cars in the UK now.
iNEXT showcase SUV
You might wonder how any new SUVs could slot into BMW’s line-up, but another is set to arrive in 2021 – the iNEXT. Set to be unlike virtually any other model in the BMW line-up, this new car will be a showcase of electrification and autonomous technology. There’s still a lot that’s unknown about it, though given it’s already been spied testing, it looks as if the model could arrive as soon as 2021.
