First Drive - EV Review - BMW i4
BMW i4 Review
What is it?
BMW might’ve been a little slow to kick off its full range of electric cars after the smash hit that was the i3, but it has quickly addressed this. Introducing a range of battery-powered models in quick succession, BMW has made a real impact on this flourishing segment.
Core to this is the i4. It’s essentially an electric version of the regular 4 Series but adapted with a series of tweaks to make it drive even more keenly. Let’s take a look at what it’s like.
What’s new?
As we’ve touched upon, the i4 is built to bring electric power into a more mainstream area through its basis upon the 4 Series. It’s why the pair share a similar style and adopt the Grand Tourer five-door layout for improved spaciousness and practicality.
But in classic BMW fashion, some measures have been taken to ensure that it drives just as keenly as the petrol version. The batteries, for example, are placed low beneath the floor which has the dual benefit of improving weight distribution while also improving overall luggage space.
What’s under the bonnet?
As with other BMW models, the i4 is available with a good variety of motor and battery setups. In its most efficient, long-distance flavour it can deliver up to 365 miles between charges, meaning that this is one electric car which isn’t restricted to urban areas.
But it’s the range-topping M50 version that will really get noticed. Thanks to a dual-motor setup developing 536bhp and 795Nm of torque, it’ll do 0-60mph in under four seconds and can reach a top speed of 124mph. It’ll still manage a range of up to 324 miles, too.
What’s the BMW i4 like to drive?
In the M50 flavour, the i4 is very, very fast. In fact, it rivals many of BMW’s petrol-powered ‘M’ cars for sheer performance, so if you’re in the market for an electric car that’ll deliver a properly exciting driving experience, you’ve come to the right place.
But it’s also pleasantly refined and comfortable, too. Plus, as the controls and general feeling are very similar to a ‘standard’ BMW, it doesn’t feel alien nor too different from a standard model. As a ‘first’ EV, it’s a really strong contender.
How does it look?
BMW’s latest design direction has certainly got tongues wagging, but the i4 is a great blend of old-school touches and more modern features. It’s got the super-large kidney grilles that we’ve seen across the BMW range, but this is coupled with some nice sleek headlights to create a very eye-catching front-end design.
As we’ve touched upon, the i4 is also only available as a five-door ‘Gran Coupe’ - you can’t get it as a traditional coupe.
What’s it like inside?
You’ll find some really nice materials inside the i4, with plenty of high-end touches combined with some nicely judged ergonomics. We like the seating position, too, which is pleasantly low and feels nice and sporty. Visibility is also generally good, though the rear screen is relatively small.
There’s also a really useful 470-litre boot, which trumps many of the i4’s rivals for outright spaciousness. It’s also just 10 litres down on the boot you’ll find in the petrol and diesel-powered 4 Series Gran Coupe models.
What’s the spec like?
BMW has kitted the i4 out with some of its latest tech, including its crystal-clear curved display infotainment. This ‘wraps’ around the driver and combines both core driving information as well as media and navigation functions under one seamless piece of glass. It’s really impressive to view.
Prices for the i4 kickstart from £49,995, but all versions get that super-large screen and usual features like air conditioning. Move up to M Sport and you’ll get larger wheels and a sportier exterior design.
Verdict
The i4 really feels like an electric car you could use every day. It’s easy to live with and has a great range regardless of which specification you opt for, meaning that you won’t have to be troubled by charging up too often.
It’s also one of BMW’s more understated cars styling-wise, so it’s a great option for people who want an EV that doesn’t look or feel too different from a standard petrol or diesel model.
