Overview: 2023 BMW i4
The BMW i4 is a fully electric sedan that is a vital part of BMW's expanding EV lineup. It combines the sleek design of the 4-series Grand Coupe with a battery powertrain and refined driving dynamics, resulting in an award-winning combination. The i4 comes in three different versions: the eDrive35 and eDrive40 are single-motor rear-wheel-drive models, with the former providing 281 horsepower and an EPA-estimated range of 260 miles, while the latter offers 335 horsepower and a range of around 300 miles. The all-wheel-drive i4 M50 is the most powerful, with 536 horsepower and a range of 245 miles.
The i4 M50 is an exciting car to drive, with acceleration that rivals that of the M3 Competition. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, and from 50 to 70 mph in only 2.0 seconds. Despite this, the i4 is still a comfortable daily driver, with a smooth ride and responsive handling that provides a satisfying sports sedan experience. While the i4 may not have the same level of steering feedback as other M cars, it still delivers a refined and exhilarating driving experience.
Price and Variants: 2023 BMW i4
For 2023, BMW has made some minor changes to its i4 lineup. The newest addition to the range is the entry-level eDrive35 model, which uses a smaller 66.0-kWh battery pack to achieve a 260-mile range. The M 50 Years special emblems are now available on the i4 M50. However, the 18-inch M Bi-color Midnight Grey wheels with all-season tires have been discontinued.
One interesting feature of the i4 is the Iconic Sounds Electric option. This enables a range of synthesized sounds to be played through the car's speakers, which are coordinated with its acceleration. For 2023, this option will be sold separately from the Premium package.
The prices for the i4 range for 2023 are as follows:
- eDrive35: $52,995
- eDrive40: $58,095
- M50: $69,695
If you're looking for the best performance, we recommend the M50 model. It comes with a more aggressive appearance, including 19-inch wheels, and a beautifully tuned suspension that's comfortable around town and thrilling on the open road. The M50 also features upgraded brakes with blue calipers. The optional 20-inch rims are a great choice for those who prioritize appearance and performance, but they reduce the estimated driving range from 270 to 227 miles.
To make the interior more comfortable and luxurious, we recommend adding one of the vernasca leather options, the Premium package, and individual options such as adaptive LED headlights, ventilated front seats, a Harman Kardon sound system, and wireless charging.
Power and Performance: 2023 BMW i4
The 2023 i4 comes with either one or two electric motors depending on the model, providing impressive power and performance. The eDrive35 and eDrive40 models have a single motor at the rear, with the former generating 281 horsepower and the latter producing 335 horsepower. On the other hand, the M50 model features an electric motor on both the front and rear axles, offering all-wheel drive with 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque. During our test drive, the M50 model accelerated from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds, surpassing the speed of a rear-drive M3 Competition.
The rear-drive i4 comes with 18-inch rims as standard, while the 19-inch rims are optional. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive M50 can be fitted with either 19 or 20-inch rims, and also comes with adaptive dampers and a variable-ratio steering system. Despite its weight, the i4 M50 provides immediate and forceful acceleration, moving with confidence and elegance due to its low center of gravity.
Range, Charging and Battery: 2023 BMW i4
According to BMW, the i4 eDrive40, a single-motor rear-drive vehicle, can travel approximately 300 miles on a full battery charge. The M50, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version with the same 81.5-kWh battery, has a claimed range of up to 245 miles. Both i4 models offer a rapid charging speed of up to 200 kW, which can provide between 88 and 108 miles of additional range in just 10 minutes. The eDrive35, the entry-level model, features a smaller 66.0 kWh net capacity battery that delivers a range of approximately 260 miles and can charge at a maximum speed of 180 kW. When using the onboard Level 2 charger, which has a power output of up to 11 kW, the i4 can recharge its battery from zero to 100 percent in less than 8 hours.
Interior: 2023 BMW i4
The i4's interior boasts a luxurious design with opulent features such as rose gold trim, white leather seating, and light wood accents. Although it shares a resemblance to other BMW models, the i4 sets itself apart by being the first model, alongside the all-electric iX SUV, to showcase a seamless and extensive display covering almost two-thirds of the dashboard. Additionally, the i4's four-door body style has a striking rear roofline that mimics a coupe's shape while still providing a conventional trunk.
Infotainment and Connectivity: 2023 BMW i4
BMW's i4 was among the initial models to showcase the iDrive 8 software for infotainment and connectivity. Recently, the vehicle underwent a complimentary over-the-air update, improving its software to the newer iDrive 8.5 version. This advanced system incorporates a sizable curved display on the dashboard, integrating a 14.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Apart from the rotary controller on the center console, the iDrive 8.5 system also boasts of advanced voice commands and several sought-after features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety and Warranty: 2023 BMW i4
The 2023 i4 comes packed with a range of advanced driver-assistance technologies that are available as standard or optional features. To learn more about the i4's performance in crash tests, you can visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Here are some of the notable safety features:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
If you're looking for a vehicle that offers great warranty and maintenance coverage, the i4 won't disappoint. BMW's warranty is quite competitive and comes with an excellent complimentary maintenance period:
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers eight years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles
