The BMW i4 stands out as a formidable electric vehicle (EV), challenging not only its electric counterparts but also the conventional gas-powered M cars. This dual-purpose EV efficiently blends high-performance driving with an impressive range, making it a standout in the EV landscape.
Performance Prowess
The i4 lineup boasts two primary models, the xDrive40 and the M50, each catering to distinct performance needs. The xDrive40 flexes its muscles with a robust 396 horsepower, while the M50 cranks it up a notch with an exhilarating 536 horsepower. Surprisingly, the M50 earns accolades for its superior ride and handling when compared to the M3, a beloved high-performance sedan. This reaffirms BMW’s commitment to combining performance with electric power.
Impressive Range and Charging
In terms of range, the xDrive40 leads the i4 lineup with an EPA-estimated 307 miles on a full charge. This impressive range ensures the i4 can handle longer journeys with ease. Moreover, the i4 shines in the charging department, with a commendable DC-fast charging capacity, allowing speeds of up to 200 kW. This means rapid replenishment for those on the go.
Comfortable Daily Driving
For everyday driving, the i4 doesn’t disappoint. It offers a comfortable and spacious interior that’s ideal for daily commutes and longer trips. However, some critics have noted that the steering could be more engaging, suggesting room for improvement in this aspect.
2024 Updates
In 2024, BMW introduced the xDrive40 model, featuring all-wheel drive and a powerful 396-horsepower engine. This new addition enhances the i4 lineup, delivering an impressive EPA-estimated 307 miles of driving range with standard 18-inch wheels and approximately 282 miles with optional 19-inch wheels. Besides this notable addition, the i4 remains mostly consistent with the previous year’s model.
Our Recommendations
For those considering the i4, the M50 model stands out as the preferred choice. With enhanced power and performance features, it’s worth the investment. The M50 comes with a more aggressive appearance, including 19-inch wheels, and boasts a finely-tuned suspension, delivering an exhilarating driving experience. Optional 20-inch rims enhance aesthetics and performance, albeit at the cost of a slightly reduced driving range, dropping from 270 to 227 miles. To further elevate the interior, explore options like vernasca leather, the Premium package (featuring ambient interior lighting, heated seats and steering wheel, and lumbar support), and individual choices such as adaptive LED headlights, ventilated front seats, a Harman Kardon sound system, and wireless charging.
Electric Power and Performance
The 2024 BMW i4 comes with variations in its electric motor setup. The eDrive35 features a single-motor rear-drive setup, packing a 282-horsepower unit. The eDrive40, on the other hand, equips a single motor on the rear axle producing 335 horsepower. For those seeking all-wheel drive, the xDrive e40 delivers 396 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The M50, using dual motors for all-wheel drive, tops the range with an impressive 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque. Notably, the M50 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, outpacing the rear-drive M3 Competition. Wheel choices include standard 18-inch rims for rear-drive i4 models, while 19-inch wheels are optional. The all-wheel-drive M50 offers flexibility with either 19-inch or 20-inch wheels, along with adaptive dampers and a variable-ratio steering system, ensuring a thrilling and nimble driving experience.
Range, Charging, and Battery Performance
The EPA estimates the single-motor rear-drive i4 eDrive40 to offer around 301 miles of driving on a full battery charge. The all-wheel-drive xDrive40, equipped with 396 horsepower, achieves an estimated 307 miles of driving range with standard 18-inch wheels or roughly 282 miles with optional 19-inch wheels. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive M50 shares the same 81.5-kWh battery but achieves a claimed range of 245 miles. Notably, these i4 models support a 200-kW charging capacity, adding an impressive 88 to 108 miles of range in just 10 minutes. The entry-level eDrive35 model comes with a smaller 66.0 kWh net capacity battery, delivering approximately 260 miles of range and supporting up to 180-kW charging speeds. Using a Level 2 onboard charger (up to 11 kW), the i4 can fully recharge its battery in less than 8 hours.
Fuel Efficiency and Real-world Performance
The i4’s fuel efficiency is impressive. The eDrive40 model with standard 18-inch wheels garners an excellent EPA rating, offering 109 MPGe in the city and 108 MPGe on the highway. The larger 19-inch wheels slightly reduce these figures, with the more powerful M50 model achieving lower efficiency ratings. While comprehensive real-world testing is yet to be conducted on all i4 models, an i4 eDrive 40 Gran Coupe we tested came very close to its EPA estimate, delivering 280 miles of range, just two miles short. For additional efficiency details, refer to the EPA’s official website.
Luxurious Interior and Cargo Space
Inside, the i4’s cabin is a testament to luxury, featuring rose gold trim, white leather upholstery, and light wood accents. The overall layout is consistent with other BMW models, with a notable exception: a massive, seamless display covering nearly two-thirds of the dashboard. Despite its four-door configuration, the i4 showcases a dramatic rear roofline, emulating a coupe-like profile, while maintaining a traditional trunk in the rear.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The i4 was among the first BMW vehicles to introduce the iDrive 8 infotainment system. With a 14.9-inch touchscreen integrated with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel on an expansive curved display, it offers intuitive operation. Additionally, the system includes advanced voice commands and popular features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety Features
The 2024 i4 incorporates a range of standard and optional driver-assistance technologies, guaranteeing a secure driving experience. Standard features include forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additionally, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology is available.
Warranty and Maintenance
BMW’s warranty package is robust, covering four years or 50,000 miles for the limited warranty, eight years or 100,000 miles for the powertrain warranty, and three years or 36,000 miles for complimentary maintenance. These warranties underline BMW’s commitment to customer satisfaction and vehicle durability.
Specifications:
2022 BMW i4 eDrive40
- Vehicle Type: Rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
- Price: Base/As Tested – $56,395/$64,820
- Powertrain: Electric motor, liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery (81.5 kWh), 11.0 kW onboard charger
- Suspension: Struts front and multilink rear
- Brakes: 13.7-in vented front disc and 13.6-in vented rear disc
- Tires: Hankook Ventus S1 evo3
- Dimensions: Wheelbase – 112.4 inches, Length – 188.5 inches, Width – 72.9 inches, Height – 57.0 inches
- Interior: Passenger Volume – 90 ft³, Trunk Volume – 10 ft³
- Curb Weight: 4699 pounds
- Performance (C/D Test Results): 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, 1/4-Mile in 13.4 seconds at 106 mph, Top Speed of 115 mph, Braking 70-0 mph in 169 ft
- Fuel Economy (C/D Fuel Economy): Observed – 108 MPGe, 75-mph Highway Driving – 107 MPGe, 75-mph Highway Range – 280 miles
- EPA Fuel Economy: Combined/City/Highway – 99/100/98 MPGe, Range – 282 miles
2022 BMW i4 M50
- Vehicle Type: Front- and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
- Price: Base/As Tested – $66,895/$76,670
- Powertrain: Combined Power – 536 hp, Combined Torque – 586 lb-ft, 81.5 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, 11.0 kW onboard charger
- Suspension: Struts front and multilink rear
- Tires: Pirelli P Zero Elect PZ4
- Brakes: 14.7-in vented front disc and 13.6-in vented rear disc
- Dimensions: Wheelbase – 112.4 inches, Length – 188.5 inches, Width – 72.9 inches, Height – 57.0 inches
- Interior: Passenger Volume – 90 ft³, Cargo Volume – 10 ft³
- Curb Weight: 5063 pounds
- Performance (C/D Test Results): 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds, 1/4-Mile in 11.7 seconds at 120 mph, Top Speed of 127 mph, Braking 70-0 mph in 154 ft
- Fuel Economy (C/D Fuel Economy): Observed – 83 MPGe
- EPA Fuel Economy: Combined/City/Highway – 80/79/80 MPGe, Range – 227 miles
Also, read the review about the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6.
