The BMW i4, now boasting four model levels, has become significantly more accessible. Since its debut in 2022, the most noteworthy additions are the cost-effective eDrive35 trim and the all-wheel-drive xDrive40 model. Despite these enhancements, the i4 continues to maintain its original charm. The 2024 BMW i4 offers greater accessibility than luxury brands like Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. Yet, it competes strongly with rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Tesla Model 3. Consider the i4 first when looking for an electric sedan or hatchback.
The rear-wheel-drive 2024 BMW i4 features a single electric motor. Its base model, the i4 eDrive35, offers 282 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The i4 eDrive40, with 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, accelerates to 60 mph about thirty seconds faster.
Despite its name, the i4 xDrive40 surpasses its rear-wheel-drive counterpart in power. It employs two electric motors for all-wheel drive, producing a formidable 396 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. This enables it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. The i4 M50, the series’ pinnacle, also uses two motors and xDrive all-wheel drive. With a remarkable 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque, it launches from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.
The i4’s range varies across its different models. The eDrive35 offers the least range of 252 to 276 miles. The i4 eDrive40 can cover 283–301 miles on a single charge. Meanwhile, the i4 xDrive40 slightly outperforms it with a range of 279–307 miles. However, despite its power, the high-performance i4 M50 offers a shorter range of only 227–269 miles before requiring a recharge.
Despite the variations in power and performance, the 2024 BMW i4 models’ interiors are similar. The classic BMW elegance defines each cabin. This features an Anthracite headliner and perforated Sensatec upholstery, blending luxury with subtlety. Standard features include automatic climate control, a power tailgate, a power glass moonroof, and Comfort Access keyless entry. While all models offer leather options, we suggest allocating the $1,500 elsewhere in the lineup.
The base model of the BMW i4 eDrive35 starts at $52,200, excluding destination and other fees. The standard rear-wheel-drive (RWD) eDrive40 is priced at $57,300, with the xDrive variant increasing the cost to $61,600. The i4 M50, at the top of the range, is priced at $69,700. As mentioned, the i4’s pricing accurately reflects its value aptly. Its closest rival, the Polestar 2, is priced at $49,900 and offers similar acceleration, interior space, and a longer range. Other alternatives like the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Porsche Taycan are significantly more expensive or less costly than the i4, yet they come with their own performance or prestige trade-offs.