Electric vehicles have rapidly evolved, and BMW’s entry into the EV market has been noteworthy. While high-performance models often grab headlines, sometimes the less powerful variant offers a more compelling package. The Bmw I4 Edrive40 is a prime example, showcasing that you don’t need maximum power to have an exceptional electric sedan. After spending time behind the wheel, it’s clear that the i4 eDrive40 is not just good, but potentially the best electric sedan in BMW’s current lineup for many drivers.
Having previously experienced the thrill of the BMW i4 M50, the focus shifted to the eDrive40, the single-motor, rear-wheel-drive version. While the M50 is undeniably quick and powerful, the i4 eDrive40 presents a more balanced proposition. Priced starting at a more accessible $57,300, the eDrive40 significantly undercuts the dual-motor M50, saving you over $10,000. Moreover, it extends your driving range, offering an EPA-estimated 301 miles (484 km) on a single charge from its 84.3 kWh battery, a notable increase of over 30 miles compared to its more powerful sibling with the same battery capacity.
BMW’s legacy is built upon crafting driver-centric, rear-wheel-drive sedans. Therefore, expectations were naturally high for the i4 eDrive40 to embody this spirit. The absence of a front motor in this configuration brings inherent advantages. With less weight over the front axle, the steering becomes more precise, and the front wheels are solely dedicated to steering and braking, unburdened by power delivery. This simpler setup, in turn, often allows for smaller wheels, contributing to a smoother ride and enhanced range. Although our test model featured optional 19-inch wheels ($600), reducing the range to 283 miles (455 km) from the base 18-inch wheel configuration, the core benefits of the rear-wheel-drive setup remained evident.
BMW i4 eDrive40 interior in cognac Sensatec, showcasing the large double-screen display and ergonomic design, a highlight of this electric sedan.
Stepping inside the BMW i4 eDrive40 reveals a cabin that blends modern technology with classic BMW ergonomics. The door opens via an aerodynamically optimized recessed handle, leading you into a welcoming interior. The test car featured tan-colored seats, upholstered in Sensatec, BMW’s high-quality synthetic leather, which is standard and available in a range of shades, offering a premium feel even without opting for genuine leather. The steering wheel stands out with a slightly thinner rim compared to contemporary BMW models, and thankfully, retains physical buttons for the multifunction controls – a welcome tactile experience in an increasingly touch-sensitive world. Otherwise, the cabin layout mirrors the higher-performance i4 variants, dominated by the expansive curved display. This seamless double-screen stretches across the dashboard, integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment system, powered by BMW’s iDrive 8.5. Notably, the i4 might be among the last BMW models to offer the physical iDrive rotary dial, providing a preferred input method for many alongside touch and voice controls.
In conclusion, the BMW i4 eDrive40 emerges as a standout electric sedan. It masterfully balances performance, range, and price, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium EV experience without the top-tier price tag or excessive power of models like the M50. For drivers prioritizing a refined driving experience, ample range, and BMW’s signature rear-wheel-drive dynamics in an electric package, the i4 eDrive40 hits the sweet spot, potentially making it the most appealing electric BMW sedan currently available.
