BMW ICE, the concept that inspired the X4

It is called the BMW ICE and it became the concept that inspired the BMW X4. This curious prototype has the shape of a sporty coupé with the transmission of the BMW X5, the interior of the BMW Z4 and a distinctive tailgate. The classic cars department of the Bavarian brand, BMW Classic, has revealed that it is a new concept developed by the German manufacturer in 2004. The acronym ICE stands for Integrated Concept Engineering.

This eye-catching prototype became BMW’s first foray into the sporty coupé segment and also the forerunner of iconic models such as the BMW X4 and the BMW X6. BMW Classic wanted to present the model in full detail and was joined by designer David Carp.

BMW ICE, the forerunner of the BMW X4 and BMW X6

Broadly speaking, the BMW ICE was shaped by the brand’s design studio in Los Angeles and recalls the era of Chris Bangle. Those models stood out for their sculpted lines and differently shaped light clusters. The rear of the BMW ICE recalls the Infiniti G35, and the interior offers a comfortable, high driving position.

The overall dimensions of the BMW ICE are slightly shorter and lower than those of a current BMW X3. As we have mentioned, the drivetrain belongs to a first-generation BMW X5 and the cabin to that of a BMW Z4 roadster, making it a 2+2. The interiors are completed by a panoramic roof divided into sections that can open in several ways.

https://youtu.be/9YIxCBtoh3c

At the front, the oval kidney grilles and twin circular light clusters stand out, set into a bumper without a specific shape. The BMW ICE Concept also features light clusters in the side mirrors. According to the designer, David Carp, the BMW ICE is inspired by the concept called the BMW X Coupé, which debuted at the 2001 Detroit Motor Show. The reason why the Bavarian brand decided not to put this curious concept into production is unknown, and the video does not explain it either. What do you think?