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The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the rise of electric vehicles. BMW, a renowned luxury car manufacturer, has embraced this shift with the introduction of the 2024 BMW i4. This all-electric sedan combines luxurious features, impressive performance, and eco-friendly technology to provide an exhilarating driving experience. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the key highlights of the 2024 BMW i4, including its pricing, performance, interior, infotainment system, driving range, and safety features.

Pricing: Choose Your Perfect Match

The 2024 BMW i4 offers a range of trims to suit different preferences and budgets. The lineup includes the eDrive35, eDrive40, xDrive40, and the range-topping M50. Each trim comes with unique features and performance capabilities. Let’s delve into the pricing details of each model:

• eDrive35: Starting at $52,200, this entry-level trim is equipped with a 281-horsepower electric motor, a 70-kWh battery pack, and rear-wheel drive. It offers a remarkable range of standard features, including synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a 14.9-inch touch screen, and dual-zone automatic climate control
• eDrive40: Priced from $57,300, the eDrive40 takes performance to the next level with a 335-horsepower electric motor and an 81-kWh battery pack. It boasts additional upgrades such as front sport seats with extra bolstering and tri-zone automatic climate control.
• xDrive40: With a base MSRP of $61,600, the xDrive40 offers an exhilarating all-wheel-drive experience. It features a dual-motor setup, delivering a combined power output of 396 horsepower. The xDrive40 also comes with an adaptive suspension and M Sport-tuned steering for enhanced performance
• M50: The range-topping M50 starts at $69,700 and embodies the pinnacle of electric luxury performance. It boasts a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, generating an impressive 536 horsepower. The M50 also offers exclusive features like 19-inch wheels and carbon-fiber exterior accents.

Choosing the right trim depends on your preferences and desired level of performance. The eDrive40 model, with its balanced combination of power and features, is a recommended choice for those seeking an exhilarating driving experience without compromising on comfort and convenience.

Performance: Electrifying Power and Efficiency

The 2024 BMW i4 offers an impressive range of powertrain options to suit diverse driving needs. Let’s explore the performance capabilities of each variant:

• eDrive35: The entry-level eDrive35 is equipped with a 70-kWh battery and a rear-wheel-drive electric motor, delivering 281 horsepower. This powertrain provides sufficient liveliness for daily driving and offers quick off-the-line acceleration.
• eDrive40: The eDrive40 takes performance up a notch with an 81-kWh battery and a rear-wheel-drive electric motor, producing a combined 335 horsepower. It offers more brisk acceleration and a noticeable increase in power compared to the eDrive35.
• xDrive40: With two electric motors and all-wheel drive, the xDrive40 offers an exhilarating driving experience. Its dual-motor setup generates 396 horsepower, providing impressive acceleration and enhanced traction on various road conditions.
• M50: The range-topping M50 is the epitome of high-performance luxury. It features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, delivering a combined 536 horsepower. With a zero-to-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds, the M50 offers sports car-level thrills.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2024 BMW i4 is highly competitive among luxury electric cars. The eDrive35 achieves an impressive 122 MPG-equivalent in the city and 119 MPGe on the highway, according to the EPA. The eDrive40 and xDrive40 variants offer slightly lower efficiency due to their increased power output, ranging from 100-109 MPGe in the city and 99-100 MPGe on the highway. The M50, with its higher performance capabilities, achieves 79-94 MPGe in the city and 80-98 MPGe on the highway.

Driving Range and Charging: Powering Up for the Journey

One of the key concerns for electric vehicle owners is driving range. The 2024 BMW i4 offers a respectable driving range, ensuring you can embark on your journeys with confidence. The xDrive40 model offers the maximum driving range of 307 miles, while other variants provide a range between 227 and 301 miles, depending on powertrain and configuration.

Charging the i4 is a breeze, thanks to various charging options available. The standard 11-kW onboard charger allows you to charge the vehicle using a 120-volt household-style power outlet, adding approximately 4 miles of range per hour. However, it is recommended to use a 240-volt outlet or Level 2 charging station, which can add around 30 miles of range per hour and fully charge the battery overnight in eight to ten hours.

For even faster charging, the i4 is compatible with Level 3 DC fast charging stations. These stations can add up to 90 miles of range in about 10 minutes and fully charge the battery in as little as 30 minutes, depending on charge output and other factors.

According to the EPA, the estimated annual cost of charging the i4 ranges from $600 to $900, based on 15,000 miles driven per year. Factors such as location, peak-hour surcharges, and charging frequency may affect these costs. It’s worth noting that BMW provides an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on the i4’s battery, ensuring peace of mind for owners.

Interior: Luxurious Comfort and Modern Design

Step inside the 2024 BMW i4, and you’ll be greeted by a well-built and luxurious interior. The cabin exudes elegance with high-quality materials and a minimalist design aesthetic. While some competitors may offer more flamboyant interiors, the i4’s conservative approach appeals to those seeking a timeless and refined ambiance.

The infotainment system takes center stage, featuring a sleek and futuristic-looking 14.9-inch touch screen. The display offers crisp graphics and quick responses, enhancing the overall user experience. While there may be an initial learning curve, the system becomes intuitive with practice. Physical controls on the steering wheel and the ubiquitous BMW rotary controller on the center console provide alternative ways to operate the infotainment system.

Standard infotainment features include wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, navigation, voice recognition, satellite radio, HD Radio, Bluetooth, four USB ports, and a 10-speaker stereo system. Additionally, the i4 offers available features such as wireless device charging and a premium 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system to enhance your driving pleasure.

The i4 prioritizes driver comfort with a range of standard and available features. Standard features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a moonroof. For added luxury, options such as tri-zone automatic climate control and ambient LED interior lighting are available.

Cargo Space: Practicality Meets Electric Performance

While electric vehicles often face challenges in terms of cargo space, the 2024 BMW i4 provides a practical and versatile solution. Its hatchback design offers ample cargo room for the luxury electric car class.

The rear cargo area provides 10 cubic feet of space, sufficient for carrying two suitcases or a load of groceries. Need more room? Folding down the rear seats unlocks an impressive 45.6 cubic feet of cargo space, allowing you to stow two sets of golf clubs, multiple suitcases, or even a bicycle. Convenience is further enhanced with the inclusion of a power liftgate.

It’s worth noting that the i4 does not feature a front trunk, or frunk, unlike some other electric vehicles. However, the generous rear cargo space compensates for this, making the i4 a practical choice for everyday use.

Seating and Comfort: A Luxurious Journey

The 2024 BMW i4 comfortably accommodates five passengers, ensuring a luxurious and enjoyable journey. The front seats provide ample headroom and legroom, along with exceptional comfort and support. Visibility for the driver is excellent, although the sloping roofline slightly reduces rear visibility.

The rear seats may feel somewhat cramped for taller adults, but they are still suitable for short journeys. The i4’s overall seating configuration strikes a balance between passenger comfort and maximizing interior space.

Safety Features: A Focus on Protection

BMW prioritizes safety in the 2024 i4, equipping it with a comprehensive range of advanced safety features. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, traffic-sign recognition, driver-attention monitoring, and automatic high-beam headlights.

For those seeking additional safety enhancements, available features include lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control with steering assist, a drive recorder that records and saves driving footage, a head-up display projecting pertinent driving and navigation information, a surround-view camera system, park assist, and front and rear parking sensors. The i4’s safety features work harmoniously to ensure a secure and confident driving experience.

The Competition: Comparing the i4 to Rivals

When considering an electric luxury car, it’s essential to evaluate the competition. Two notable contenders in this segment are the Tesla Model 3 and the Polestar 2. Let’s compare the i4 to these rival

• Tesla Model 3: The Tesla Model 3 offers a slightly longer driving range, quicker acceleration, and advanced driver-assistance features such as the Autopilot system. On the other hand, the i4 provides a more luxurious interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and superior handling dynamics. The choice between the i4 and the Model 3 ultimately comes down to personal preference.

• Polestar 2: The Polestar 2 shares some positive traits with the i4, including an upscale interior, a sleek infotainment array, and comfortable front seats. However, the i4 surpasses the Polestar 2 in terms of driving range, driving dynamics, ride quality, and acceleration. The i4 offers a more refined and exhilarating driving experience.

Conclusion: Embrace Electric Luxury

The 2024 BMW i4 represents a compelling option for those seeking an electric luxury car. With its range of powertrain options, impressive driving range, luxurious interior, and advanced safety features, the i4 sets a new standard in the world of electric vehicles. Whether you prioritize performance, comfort, or eco-friendly technology, the i4 delivers on all fronts. Embrace the future of electric luxury and experience the thrill of the 2024 BMW i4.