BMW i4 M50 Review: An Electrifying Performance Sedan

Electric vehicles are rapidly transforming the automotive landscape, offering exhilarating performance while reducing emissions. Among the latest additions to this innovative field is the BMW i4 M50, a high-performance electric sedan that combines the brand’s renowned driving dynamics with cutting-edge EV technology. But does the i4 M50 live up to its billing as a true performance machine?

Yes, the BMW i4 M50 delivers blistering acceleration, sporty handling, and a premium driving experience befitting of the legendary M badge – all while embracing the future of electrification. So today, we’ll explore the i4 M50’s electrifying performance, sleek design, advanced tech features, real-world range and charging capabilities, as well as how it stacks up against key rivals in the premium electric vehicle segment.

Electrifying Performance and Acceleration

One of the standout features of the BMW i4 M50 is its potent dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain. Generating an impressive 536 horsepower and 586 lb-ft of torque, this electric beast can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds. That blistering acceleration is on par with some of the world’s most exotic supercars, propelling the i4 M50 to an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph.

What sets electric vehicles apart is their ability to deliver instantaneous torque, and the i4 M50 is no exception. The moment you plant your foot on the accelerator, you’re pinned back in your seat as the dual motors unleash their full might. This relentless surge of power is both thrilling and addictive, making even routine merges and passing maneuvers an exhilarating experience.

To unlock the i4 M50’s maximum performance potential, drivers can engage the Sport Boost mode, which temporarily increases power output for an even more aggressive driving experience. This mode is perfect for those moments when you crave an adrenaline rush or need to extract every ounce of acceleration from the electric powertrain.

How Does the BMW i4 M50’s Performance Compare to Other Electric Vehicles?

• Faster 0-60 mph acceleration than the Tesla Model 3 Performance
• On par with the Porsche Taycan for straight-line speed
• Not quite as quick as ultra high-performance EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid

While the i4 M50’s performance is undoubtedly impressive, it’s worth noting that it falls slightly behind the ultra-high-performance electric vehicles like the Tesla Model S Plaid in terms of outright acceleration. However, for most drivers, the i4 M50’s blistering pace will more than suffice, delivering an exhilarating driving experience that few gasoline-powered vehicles can match.

Sporty Driving Dynamics and Handling

Performance is about more than just straight-line speed, and the BMW i4 M50 excels in the handling department as well. Thanks to its low center of gravity, courtesy of the battery pack’s positioning, the i4 M50 feels remarkably planted and stable when carving through corners.

The precise steering and well-balanced chassis inspire confidence, allowing you to push the i4 M50 to its limits without sacrificing composure. The all-wheel-drive system also provides exceptional traction, ensuring that every ounce of power is efficiently transferred to the road.

Adding to the i4 M50’s dynamic capabilities is the adaptive M suspension, which can be tailored to suit your driving preferences. In Comfort mode, the suspension soaks up bumps and imperfections for a supple ride, while Sport mode firms things up for more spirited driving on twisty roads or track days.

Drivers can further customize the i4 M50’s driving experience by selecting from a range of driving modes, including Eco Pro for maximum efficiency, Comfort for a more relaxed demeanor, and Sport for a heightened level of responsiveness and performance.

Sleek Liftback Design and Practicality

While the BMW i4 M50 is undoubtedly a performance-oriented machine, it doesn’t sacrifice practicality in the pursuit of driving thrills. Based on the same underpinnings as the 4 Series Gran Coupe, the i4 M50 boasts a sleek liftback design that combines a sloping roofline with the versatility of a hatchback.

This design not only gives the i4 M50 a svelte and aerodynamic profile but also provides ample cargo space when the rear seats are folded down. Whether you’re hauling luggage for a weekend getaway or transporting larger items, the i4 M50’s practicality ensures it can handle your daily driving needs with ease.

Aesthetically, the i4 M50 is a head-turner, sporting a bold interpretation of BMW’s iconic kidney grille, sculpted body lines, and aggressive M sport styling cues. Standard equipment includes 19-inch M double-spoke wheels (with 20-inch wheels available as an option), M Sport brakes with blue calipers, and sleek Matrix LED headlights with laser light technology.

What Are the Exterior Design Highlights of the i4 M50?

• Bold BMW kidney grille with integrated sensors
• Aerodynamic body lines and sculpted profile
• Standard 19″ M double-spoke wheels (20″ optional)
• M Sport brakes with blue calipers
• Matrix LED headlights with laser light technology

The i4 M50’s exterior design strikes a perfect balance between performance and practicality, delivering head-turning aesthetics while remaining true to BMW’s commitment to functional design.

Premium and High-Tech Interior

Step inside the BMW i4 M50, and you’ll be greeted by a familiar yet thoroughly modern interior that blends luxury and technology seamlessly. While the cabin shares its overall layout with the gasoline-powered 4 Series models, the i4 M50 takes things to the next level with a host of cutting-edge features.

At the heart of the interior is BMW’s Curved Display, which seamlessly integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen. This sleek and modern setup not only looks fantastic but also provides easy access to a wealth of information and functions.

Controlling the various systems is a breeze thanks to BMW’s iDrive 8 infotainment system, which now supports natural voice commands for added convenience. Additionally, the head-up display projects crucial information directly onto the windshield, ensuring you never have to take your eyes off the road.

What Luxury Features are Available?

• Vernasca leather upholstery
• Heated front seats and steering wheel
• Harman Kardon surround sound system
• Panoramic moonroof
• Ambient lighting with customizable colors

While the i4 M50 is a performance-oriented vehicle, it doesn’t skimp on luxury features. Available options include Vernasca leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, a premium Harman Kardon surround sound system, a panoramic moonroof, and customizable ambient lighting to set the perfect mood.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

In addition to its performance and luxury credentials, the BMW i4 M50 also boasts an impressive array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance safety and convenience.

One standout feature is the Parking Assistant Plus, which takes the stress out of parallel parking by automatically controlling the steering, acceleration, and braking to maneuver the vehicle into even the tightest of spaces.

For those long highway commutes or stop-and-go traffic situations, the Extended Traffic Jam Assistant provides a level of hands-free driving assistance. While it’s not a full self-driving system, it can take over steering, acceleration, and braking duties in certain conditions, allowing you to relax a bit behind the wheel.

Other ADAS features include an Active Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision avoidance, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system, all working together to enhance safety and make driving the i4 M50 a more convenient and enjoyable experience.

Electric Range, Charging and Battery

As with any electric vehicle, range and charging capabilities are crucial considerations. The BMW i4 M50 is powered by an 81.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which provides an EPA-estimated range of 227 miles when equipped with the optional 20-inch wheels.

While this range may not be class-leading, it should be more than sufficient for most daily driving needs, especially when you factor in the ability to charge at home using a Level 2 charger, which can replenish the battery in approximately 8 hours.

For those longer road trips or when you need a quick top-up, the i4 M50 is capable of accepting up to 200 kW of DC fast charging, which can add up to 97 miles of range in just 10 minutes when plugged into a compatible high-speed charger. This level of charging flexibility ensures that range anxiety is minimized, allowing you to confidently tackle longer journeys in the i4 M50.

To further ease the transition to electric driving, BMW is offering two years of complimentary charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations for i4 owners. Each session is limited to 30 minutes, but this perk can still provide significant savings over the life of the vehicle.

How Does the i4 M50’s Range Compare to Other Electric Vehicles?

• Less range than the more efficient base i4 eDrive40 model
• On par with the Porsche Taycan 4S
• More range than ultra high-performance Tesla models like the Model S Plaid

It’s important to note that the i4 M50’s emphasis on performance does come at the cost of reduced range compared to the more efficient base i4 eDrive40 model. However, when stacked up against similarly powerful electric vehicles, the i4 M50’s range is on par with competitors like the Porsche Taycan 4S, and even exceeds the range of ultra high-performance EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid.

Pricing, Trims, and Model Comparison

The BMW i4 lineup offers three distinct models, each catering to different needs and budgets:

• i4 eDrive35: Starting at $52,000, this is the most affordable option, powered by a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 282 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
• i4 eDrive40: With a starting price of $57,100, the eDrive40 delivers 335 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque from its single rear-mounted motor.
• i4 M50: The range-topping performance model, starting at $68,700, features dual electric motors that produce a combined 536 horsepower and 586 lb-ft of torque, making it the most exhilarating i4 variant.

Across all trim levels, BMW offers a long list of optional packages and accessories, allowing buyers to customize their i4 to suit their specific needs and preferences.

Which BMW i4 Model is the Best Value?

• i4 eDrive35: Most affordable but lacks the sportier performance edge
• i4 eDrive40: Balanced blend of power and efficiency at a reasonable price point
• i4 M50: The performance king, but the most expensive option

When it comes to value, the i4 eDrive40 strikes a compelling balance between power and efficiency, making it an attractive option for those seeking a spirited driving experience without compromising too much on range or breaking the bank.

The i4 eDrive35, while more affordable, may leave performance enthusiasts wanting more, while the range-topping i4 M50 delivers an uncompromising driving experience but comes at a premium price point.

In Summary

The BMW i4 M50 is a tour de force in the world of electric performance sedans. It seamlessly blends the brand’s renowned driving dynamics with the cutting-edge technology and instant torque delivery of an all-electric powertrain, resulting in a truly exhilarating driving experience.

From its blistering acceleration and agile handling to its sleek liftback design and premium, high-tech interior, the i4 M50 delivers on all fronts. While its range may not be class-leading, the ability to quickly recharge using DC fast chargers, combined with BMW’s complimentary charging plan, helps mitigate range anxiety.

Overall, the i4 M50 is a compelling choice for those seeking a thrilling, yet practical and luxurious electric performance sedan that doesn’t compromise on the driving experience. With its perfect blend of power, technology, and style, the i4 M50 is a true testament to BMW’s commitment to embracing the future of electrification without sacrificing the core values that have made the brand so iconic.