In the rapidly evolving world of electric mobility, the BMW i4 stands as a shining example of how traditional automakers can successfully adapt to new technology while preserving their iconic brand DNA. As the automotive landscape shifts towards electrification, BMW has made significant strides in crafting a lineup of EVs that offer performance, luxury, and sustainability. The BMW i4 is at the heart of this transformation—a sleek, all-electric Gran Coupe that balances innovation with driving pleasure.
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A Bold Step into the Electric Future
The BMW i4 is part of the German marque’s “i” series, which denotes its electric and plug-in hybrid offerings. Positioned as a direct rival to the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2, the i4 retains the sporty design and premium appeal that BMW customers expect. Unlike the radical design of the i3 or i8, the i4 is a subtle evolution of the familiar 4 Series Gran Coupe, making it more accessible and appealing to traditional BMW fans transitioning to electric mobility.
Design and Exterior Styling
The BMW i4 showcases a striking balance between elegance and aerodynamic efficiency. Its long, flowing silhouette and Gran Coupe form with four doors and a fastback rear end offer both aesthetics and practicality.
Key design highlights:
- Iconic kidney grille (closed for EV)
- Slim adaptive LED or optional Laserlight headlamps
- Frameless windows
- Sculpted sides for improved airflow
- Flush door handles
- Blue accents to highlight electric identity
- Aerodynamically optimized wheels (up to 20 inches)
The closed grille isn’t just for show—it houses numerous sensors for the car’s advanced driver assistance systems. The rear gets a diffuser instead of exhausts, subtly emphasizing its zero-emission nature.
Dimensions and Road Presence
- Length: 4,783 mm
- Width: 1,852 mm
- Height: 1,448 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,856 mm
- Boot Space: 470 – 1,290 litres (expandable with 40:20:40 rear seats)
The i4 is low-slung and wide, giving it a sporty road presence. Thanks to its long wheelbase, it offers generous legroom for rear passengers—an improvement over many EV competitors.
Interiors: Luxury Meets Modern Tech
Step inside the BMW i4, and you’re greeted with a cabin that is unmistakably premium. BMW has not compromised on luxury while adapting to the minimalist trends of modern EVs.
Interior highlights include:
- Curved Display: A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster seamlessly merged with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- iDrive 8: BMW’s latest infotainment system with intuitive navigation, voice commands, widgets, and OTA updates.
- Optional Harman Kardon surround sound system
- Three-zone climate control
- Vegan leather upholstery (Sensatec) or premium Vernasca leather
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Head-up display
- Ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof
Every touchpoint exudes quality—from the solid metal trim to the soft-touch dashboard and plush seats. The lack of a transmission tunnel provides more foot room and a clean cabin layout.
Variants and Powertrain Options
Globally, the BMW i4 is offered in two main variants:
1. BMW i4 eDrive40
- Power: 340 hp
- Torque: 430 Nm
- 0–100 km/h: 5.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 190 km/h
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive
- Battery: 83.9 kWh (net: 80.7 kWh)
- Range: Up to 590 km (WLTP)
2. BMW i4 M50 xDrive
- Power: 544 hp
- Torque: 795 Nm
- 0–100 km/h: 3.9 seconds
- Top Speed: 225 km/h
- Drive: All-wheel drive (dual motor)
- Battery: 83.9 kWh
- Range: Up to 520 km (WLTP)
The i4 M50 is the first fully-electric M Performance model, offering exhilarating acceleration and dynamic handling without a drop of emissions.
Battery and Charging
BMW offers versatile charging options with the i4:
- AC Charging: Up to 11 kW (0–100% in ~8.5 hours)
- DC Fast Charging: Up to 205 kW (10–80% in ~30 minutes)
- BMW Charging Card and My BMW App for locating nearby stations
- Regenerative braking with one-pedal driving capability
Owners can install a wallbox at home or utilize public infrastructure with support for Type 2 CCS connectors. The regenerative braking system is customizable to three levels, offering either natural coasting or aggressive energy recovery.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
BMW has not let go of its “Sheer Driving Pleasure” tagline. The i4 drives like a true BMW—with sharp steering, dynamic agility, and a planted stance. The low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery) and near 50:50 weight distribution help it corner with confidence.
Performance highlights:
- Adaptive suspension
- Rear air suspension for better comfort
- Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
- Various drive modes (Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport)
- Near-silent cabin for luxurious long drives
The M50 variant, in particular, rivals sports sedans like the Audi RS5 and even some supercars in terms of 0–100 km/h times.
Safety and Driver Assistance
BMW has equipped the i4 with a full suite of safety and driver-assistance features, making it both secure and intelligent.
Safety features:
- 6 airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
- Cornering Brake Control
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- Crash sensors and post-crash braking
Driver Assistance Systems:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot detection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Reversing assistant
- Parking assist with 360° camera
- Forward collision warning with auto braking
BMW i4 in India
BMW launched the i4 in India in May 2022, and it instantly became the most affordable premium electric sedan in the market. It is currently available in the eDrive40 variant.
Ex-showroom price (India):
- BMW i4 eDrive40: ₹72.50 lakh (approx.)
Rivals in India:
- Kia EV6
- Volvo C40 Recharge
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Mercedes-Benz EQE (higher segment)
- Tesla Model 3 (international)
Despite its premium price, the i4 offers a luxurious package with the longest EV range in its class, making it an excellent proposition for Indian luxury buyers.
Sustainability and Innovation
BMW has emphasized sustainability in the i4’s manufacturing process:
- CO2-neutral production using renewable energy
- Recycled materials used for interior trim
- High-voltage battery recycling program
- Vegan leather and chrome-free finishes
BMW is also investing in a circular economy to reduce its carbon footprint across its supply chain, aligning with its global sustainability goals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding driving dynamics
- Longest EV range in its class
- Luxurious interiors and advanced tech
- True BMW handling and comfort
- Fast charging support
Cons:
- High pricing in India
- No frunk (front trunk)
- Rear seat headroom slightly compromised due to coupe roofline
- Only one variant currently available in India
Verdict: Is the BMW i4 Worth It?
The BMW i4 is more than just an electric vehicle—it’s a testament to the future of luxury driving. It delivers the refinement of a traditional BMW sedan, the innovation of a cutting-edge EV, and the comfort of a daily driver. For buyers who are looking to make the switch to electric mobility without sacrificing performance, brand value, or driving fun, the i4 hits the sweet spot.
While it may be on the pricier side, its impressive range, interior tech, and premium appeal make it a compelling option in the luxury EV space. It’s not just a car—it’s a statement of progress.
Final Words
In the grand shift towards electric vehicles, the BMW i4 stands tall as a forward-thinking yet familiar offering. It bridges the gap between heritage and innovation, performance and sustainability. Whether you’re an enthusiast, a tech-savvy driver, or an eco-conscious commuter, the i4 promises to electrify your driving experience in the most luxurious way possible.
So, if you’re ready to embrace the electric future without compromising on sheer driving pleasure, the BMW i4 might just be the perfect car for you.