The winds of change are sweeping through Bavaria. BMW, a brand synonymous with powerful gasoline engines and exhilarating driving experiences, has entered the electric vehicle (EV) arena with a flourish – the i4 eDrive40. We recently had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of this highly anticipated electric sedan, and here’s a detailed account of our first drive experience.
First Impressions: A Familiar Look with an Electric Edge
The i4 eDrive40 isn’t a radical departure from its gasoline sibling, the 4 Series Gran Coupe. The overall silhouette remains similar, with a sleek and sporty design language. However, subtle cues announce its electric identity. The iconic kidney grille is now enclosed, replaced by a panel that houses various sensors. Aerodynamically sculpted wheels and blue accents throughout provide further distinction.
Stepping inside, the i4 greets you with a familiar BMW cabin – driver-centric, well-built, and brimming with premium materials. The highlight, however, is the curved display integrating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. This panoramic display offers crisp visuals and intuitive controls, making accessing information and vehicle functions a breeze.
Electric Performance: Punchy Power, Effortless Delivery
The i4 eDrive40 boasts a single, rear-mounted electric motor churning out 340 horsepower and a substantial 430 Nm of torque. Pressing the accelerator unleashes a surge of instant torque, propelling the car forward with a satisfying urgency. The electric motor’s smooth and silent operation is a stark contrast to the traditional BMW engine growl, but the exhilarating shove into your seat during acceleration is undeniably BMW.
Balanced Handling: A Sporty Spirit Retained
Despite its added weight due to the battery pack, the i4 eDrive40 manages to retain the brand’s signature sharp handling. The car feels planted and composed around corners, thanks in part to its near-perfect weight distribution and a low center of gravity. The steering offers a good balance between responsiveness and feedback, allowing for precise control during spirited driving. However, compared to a gasoline-powered BMW, the steering might feel slightly numb due to the absence of engine feedback.
Range and Charging: Addressing the EV Range Anxiety
The BMW i4 eDrive40 comes equipped with an 83.9 kWh battery pack, offering a targeted WLTP range of up to 590 kilometers (367 miles). This translates to a real-world range of around 450-500 kilometers on a single charge, depending on driving conditions. While not class-leading, this range should be sufficient for most daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Charging options include both AC and DC fast charging. Using a home AC charger, a full charge can take around 8-9 hours. However, utilizing a DC fast charger can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% within 38 minutes – a significant advantage for longer journeys.
The Competition: Stacking Up Against Rivals
The BMW i4 eDrive40 enters a burgeoning segment of premium electric sedans. Here’s a quick comparison with some key rivals:
- Tesla Model 3: The undisputed king of the electric car segment, the Model 3 offers a longer range (up to 580 km) and a more extensive supercharger network. However, the interior quality and driving dynamics might not match the BMW’s.
- Polestar 2: This Swedish contender offers a similar performance and range to the i4 eDrive40. It boasts a more minimalist and contemporary interior design, but the BMW edges it out in terms of brand cachet and driving feel.
- Audi e-tron GT: Sharing its platform with the Porsche Taycan, the e-tron GT prioritizes blistering performance over pure driving range. While undeniably fast and luxurious, it comes at a significantly higher price point than the i4.
Living with the BMW i4 eDrive40: A Daily Companion or Weekend Getaway Car?
The BMW i4 eDrive40 is a compelling option for those seeking a premium electric sedan that blends everyday practicality with a touch of driving excitement. Its comfortable and well-equipped interior, combined with a decent driving range, makes it suitable for daily commutes. While not quite an ideal long-distance cruiser due to the current charging infrastructure, it can handle weekend getaways without range anxiety for most users.
Final Verdict: A Promising Start for BMW’s Electric Journey
The BMW i4 eDrive40 marks a significant step forward for the Bavarian automaker in the electric vehicle race. It delivers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and practicality, all wrapped in a package that retains the brand’s signature driving dynamics. While the range might not be class-leading, it’
should be sufficient for most users and can be addressed in future iterations. The fast-charging capabilities further alleviate range concerns for those who can access DC fast-charging stations.
Beyond the Drive: Tech Features and Everyday Usability
The i4 eDrive40 boasts a plethora of advanced technological features. The aforementioned curved display is the centerpiece, offering a user-friendly interface for the infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and various vehicle settings. The BMW Operating System 7.0 provides intuitive navigation, seamless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a comprehensive suite of connected services.
The i4 also comes equipped with a comprehensive driver-assistance package. Features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue on long journeys.
In terms of everyday usability, the i4 offers a decent amount of cargo space – 470 liters (16.6 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright. While not as spacious as some rivals, it’s sufficient for most luggage needs. The rear passenger seats offer good headroom and legroom for two adults or three children on shorter trips.
Overall Impression: A Worthy Contender in the Premium EV Segment
The BMW i4 eDrive40 is a strong debut for the brand in the premium electric sedan market. It offers a compelling package – a well-built and comfortable interior, a punchy electric powertrain that delivers a thrilling driving experience, and a decent driving range with fast-charging capabilities. While some rivals might offer a longer range or a more extensive charging network, the i4 counters with its superior driving dynamics, premium feel, and the undeniable allure of the BMW badge.
