Automotive
Illustration by AutomotiveAddicts.com
BMW may finally be preparing the electric convertible many enthusiasts have been waiting for. According to a new report from BMWBlog, the next-generation BMW i4 lineup is expected to include a soft-top convertible variant, potentially arriving around 2028 as part of the brand’s Neue Klasse EV family. If it reaches production, the i4 Convertible would give BMW something rare in today’s market: a fully electric, two-door, four-seat drop-top with grand touring appeal.
The reported internal codename for the i4 Convertible is NA3, following the NA2 codename tied to the upcoming i4 coupe. The broader Neue Klasse lineup is already expected to include the next i3 sedan and i3 Touring, with BMW using the architecture to reset its EV design, software, battery technology, and driving character. A convertible would be a more emotional addition to that rollout, especially in a segment where most electric vehicles are crossovers, sedans, or high-priced exotics.
Illustration by AutomotiveAddicts.com
A soft-top makes the most sense for a car like this. Folding hardtops add weight and complexity, two things EV engineers already work hard to control because of battery mass and packaging demands. A traditional fabric roof should help preserve trunk space, keep the silhouette elegant, and give the i4 Convertible a more classic luxury feel. The expected 2+2 layout also fits the formula, with two usable front seats and smaller rear seats that are more about flexibility than true family duty.
The appeal of an electric convertible is different from a gas-powered one, but that does not make it less interesting. You lose the exhaust note, but you gain near-silent open-air cruising, instant electric torque, and a calmer connection to the world around you. Anyone who experienced cars like the BMW i8 Roadster understands how special that sensation can be. With the roof down, an EV convertible can feel relaxed and futuristic at low speeds, yet still quick and engaging when the road opens up.
The market for electric convertibles remains surprisingly thin. In the U.S., options are limited and expensive, with vehicles like the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore and GMC Hummer EV offering very different interpretations of open-air electric driving. A BMW i4 Convertible could land in a more attainable premium space, giving buyers a stylish EV alternative to a traditional 4 Series Convertible while still delivering the brand’s familiar mix of performance, luxury, and daily usability. BMW has not officially confirmed the model, but if the report proves accurate, this could become one of the most appealing Neue Klasse products for drivers who still believe a car should make every trip feel a little special.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
