The BMW i4 is not just a typical electric vehicle—it’s a declaration of intent.
It is BMW’s answer to the question: Can an EV deliver the pure driving pleasure we’ve grown to expect from the Ultimate Driving Machine?
With the i4, BMW boldly enters the future by fully integrating electrification with luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. As a long-time BMW enthusiast or recent convert, the i4 promises an experience that flips your electric car expectations on their head.
In this review, we’ll dissect the performance, range, design, technology, and real-world usability of the BMW i4. But first, let’s set the stage for why this car matters.
BMW i4 review: A New Era for BMW M
BMW began its electric adventure with the quirky i3 and space-age i8. But the i4 is different—it is the first strictly electric BMW that feels, performs, and acts like a “real” BMW.
Unlike its initial two electric-BMW efforts, which featured specially designed carbon-fiber underpinnings, the i4 uses the CLAR framework that supports the 4 Series Gran Coupé.
That involves carrying over the proportions, interior trim, and even the confrontational front-end look of its fossil-fuel brother.
But underneath, it’s a different creature altogether. The i4 M50 is the first-ever fully electric BMW M car—a sign that BMW means business with electrification.
Why does it matter? Because while Tesla may have had the EV market for years, BMW is now joining the fight with its legendary handling, engineering, and premium quality.
Let’s look at the numbers.
BMW i4 review – Performance: Speed Meets Silence
In Ogilvy’s words, “The consumer isn’t a moron. She is your wife.”
Your clients don’t just want an electric vehicle—they want a car that gets them all worked up. And the BMW i4 does exactly that.
Variants & Powertrain
There are two main variants of the i4:
BMW i4 eDrive40
Power: 335 hp
Torque: 430 Nm
0-100 km/h: 5.7 seconds
Drive: Rear-wheel drive
BMW i4 M50 (The M Power EV)
Power: 536 hp
Torque: 795 Nm
0-100 km/h: 3.9 seconds
Drive: All-wheel drive
Yes, you heard right. A BMW i4 M50 is faster than a BMW M3.
Instant Torque, Unbroken Acceleration
In contrast to petrol BMWs, the i4 has no turbo lag, gear shifting, and waiting—just smooth, continuous acceleration.
With two electric motors and a low center of mass (due to the battery pack), the i4 M50 accelerates like a rocket. But it’s not only about acceleration in a straight line—BMW has firmed up the chassis and suspension to provide genuine M car-level handling.
So, will the i4 drift? Of course. The rear-biased all-wheel-drive system provides controlled slides, and BMW even included a special “Sport Boost” mode that provides additional power for brief intervals.
BMW i4 review – Range & Charging: Does It Drive Long Distances?
This is where BMW had to get it absolutely right. Range anxiety still remains a bone of contention among future EV owners.
Battery & Range
BMW i4 is powered by an 80.7 kWh battery pack, and that provides:
✔ BMW i4 eDrive40 – A maximum of 590 km (WLTP) range
✔ BMW i4 M50 – A maximum of 510 km (WLTP) range
In real-life conditions, expect about 480 km for eDrive40 and 420 km for M50.
Charging Speeds
Charging is made easy by BMW. i4 can be charged with:
???? 11 kW AC charging (0-100% in ~8 hours)
⚡ 200 kW DC fast charging (10-80% in 31 minutes)
You get to add 164 km range in 10 minutes at a high-speed charging station.
Compared to its competitors?
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range comes with slightly longer range (~600 km WLTP).
Aside from that, though, BMW’s outstanding dynamics and build quality get it our notice.
BMW i4 review – Design & Interior: Best of BMW
There was this brilliant quote, according to legend: “You cannot bore people into buying your product—you can only interest them.”
And by heaven, the BMW i4 isn’t boring in the slightest.
Exterior Design
On the first look, and it is just like a 4 Series Gran Coupé—save for with certain subtle undertones.
The kidney grille is now closed-off (since there’s no engine to cool).
Aerodynamic wheels and a sleek fastback silhouette help improve efficiency.
The M50 variant adds an aggressive stance with sportier bumpers and a rear spoiler.
Interior & Technology
Step inside, and you’re greeted by BMW’s latest iDrive 8 system with a stunning 14.9-inch curved touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital driver display.
Premium materials – Leather, aluminum, and high-quality soft-touch plastics.
Harman Kardon surround sound system – Audiophile-quality audio.
BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant – A voice-assisted AI that learns your schedule.
Unlike Tesla’s minimalist approach, BMW presents a more traditional but cutting-edge cabin experience.
BMW i4 review – Driving Experience: Does It Still Feel Like a BMW?
BMW’s DNA is rooted in pure driving pleasure. And as an EV, the i4 stays true to that lineage.
Steering: Direct, sharp, and reassuring.
Chassis: Near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution for balanced handling.
Braking: Regenerative braking can be adjusted, mimicking engine braking in petrol cars.
But here’s where BMW has gone above and beyond: It has engineered artificial engine sounds.
Through the speakers, you’ll hear “BMW IconicSounds”—a futuristic soundtrack composed by Hans Zimmer that adapts based on throttle input.
Does it sound like a V8? No. But it does give an emotional attachment to driving an EV.
Price & Competition: Is It Worth Buying?
The BMW i4 rivals the Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2, and Audi e-tron GT.
✔ BMW i4 eDrive40 – From €65,000
✔ BMW i4 M50 – From €75,000
For comparison:
Tesla Model 3 Long Range: €55,000 (but without BMW’s premium interior & handling).
A. e-tron GT: €85,000+ (quicker but more expensive).
BMW is given the best of luxury, performance, and affordability.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying the BMW i4?
✅ If you want an EV that drives like a real BMW, the i4 is a no-brainer.
✅ If you need range, luxury, and tech, it outperforms the Model 3.
✅ If you want M-level performance, the i4 M50 is a monster.
BMW has done what it does best: build a driver’s car that just happens to be electric.
Would Ogilvy approve? Absolutely. Because the BMW i4 is not just a car—it’s a statement.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!