2025 BMW i4 Review

2025 BMW i4 – Overview

The 2025 BMW i4 carves a distinctive path in the electric vehicle landscape by emphasizing driving enjoyment and refined luxury, rather than relying on futuristic gimmicks or overstated promises. Rooted in BMW’s decades-long tradition of building engaging and dynamic sedans, the i4 successfully translates the brand’s legacy into the era of electrification.

At first glance, the i4 appears closely related to its internal combustion siblings—the 3 Series and the 4 Series Gran Coupe—with which it shares much of its architecture and styling DNA. But rather than treating its electric identity as a compromise, the i4 embraces it with confidence and sophistication. Its seamless integration of EV capabilities helped secure it a coveted spot on the Editors’ Choice List, underscoring its well-rounded appeal.

The lineup features four distinct variants, each offering different levels of performance. At the entry point is the eDrive40, a rear-wheel-drive model producing a healthy 335 horsepower. At the other end of the spectrum lies the M50, a performance-focused, dual-motor all-wheel-drive trim that churns out an impressive 536 horsepower. Regardless of the model, the i4 delivers a balanced chassis, responsive dynamics, and a ride quality that strikes a fine balance between sportiness and comfort.

However, even with its dynamic prowess, some critiques remain. Chief among them is the somewhat muted steering feedback—a characteristic noted during extended evaluations, including with the long-term i4 xDrive40. Yet, these concerns are minor when viewed against the vehicle’s many strengths.

Step inside, and the i4’s cabin reflects BMW’s modern approach to luxury. Materials feel premium, build quality is top-notch, and the overall layout exudes refinement. The infotainment and instrument display—a wide, horizontally oriented panel—provides vivid graphics and crisp resolution. Importantly, it complements rather than dominates the interior, preserving an elegant and driver-focused cockpit design.

Adding to the i4’s versatility is its practical hatchback-style rear opening, which allows easier access to cargo space compared to traditional sedans. Paired with sleek, fastback-inspired styling and a range of exterior colors and optional packages, the i4 offers personalization without excess.

In sum, the BMW i4 proves that an electric vehicle can maintain the essence of a premium driving machine. Whether it’s the accessible eDrive40 or the thrilling M50, this EV sedan manages to be both contemporary and classically BMW. It’s not just a solid electric car—it’s a solid car, period.

When Is The 2025 BMW i4 Coming Out?

Following its debut as a facelifted model at the Paris Motor Show in November 2024, BMW launched production soon after. Deliveries began in early 2025 . US and global markets started seeing units in Q1 2025.

What’s New for the 2025 BMW i4?

For 2025, the BMW i4 receives several thoughtful updates that enhance both its appearance and interior refinement. New exterior paint options now include Cape York Green metallic and Vegas Red metallic, adding fresh choices to the color lineup. The signature kidney grille has been subtly redesigned with a matte chrome surround and a fully enclosed upper section that sits above a striking high-gloss black and matte silver honeycomb pattern.

The headlamps have been reshaped to appear slimmer and more modern, while the taillamps are upgraded with optional laser accent lighting, providing a sophisticated touch. For those opting for the M Sport package, visual enhancements include a more aggressive front apron featuring large side air intakes and a rear bumper equipped with a high-gloss black diffuser element.

Wheel designs also see an update, with the introduction of available 19-inch M Aero bi-color wheels exclusive to models equipped with the M Sport Package. Inside the cabin, new steering wheel designs are offered alongside refined brushed aluminum trim and a fresh Grey Blue Ash open-pore wood option, elevating the luxury feel.

BMW has also refined the texture of the instrument panel upholstery, making it smoother and extending this material treatment across the top of all four door panels for a cohesive interior look. On the lineup front, the 282-horsepower eDrive35 model has been discontinued for 2025, positioning the 335-horsepower eDrive40 as the new entry-level variant.

Pricing and Which BMW i4 Model Should You Choose?

The 2025 BMW i4’s starting price is set at $59,075, with higher trims and additional options pushing the cost up to $71,875.

While our initial recommendation leaned toward the M50 for its impressive performance and minimal trade-offs in ride comfort, our experience with the xDrive40 in our long-term testing has shifted our perspective. The xDrive40 delivers excellent capability, featuring all-wheel drive and a strong balance of power and efficiency, all while costing nearly $10,000 less than the M50.

Even when equipped with 19-inch wheels, the xDrive40 achieves an EPA-estimated driving range of 279 miles and an impressive 99 MPGe, making it a practical and compelling choice for many buyers. That said, the M50 remains available for enthusiasts who want the highest level of performance the i4 lineup has to offer. Ultimately, the xDrive40 represents a smart balance of range, capability, and value, making it our preferred pick for most drivers.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

The 2025 BMW i4 delivers power through either one or two electric motors, depending on the chosen variant. The eDrive40 is equipped with a single electric motor producing 335 horsepower, powering the rear wheels. The i4 xDrive40 ups the ante with an all-wheel-drive setup featuring two motors that combine for 396 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque.

At the pinnacle of the lineup, the M50 boasts a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system rated at an impressive 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain delivers the immediate, aggressive acceleration expected from a BMW M model, while its lower center of gravity enhances stability and handling—despite the M50 being heavier than the M3.

Regarding wheels, rear-wheel-drive i4 variants come standard with 18-inch rims, with 19-inch wheels available as an option. The M50, meanwhile, offers a choice between 19- and 20-inch wheels and includes performance-oriented features such as adaptive dampers and a variable-ratio steering system for enhanced driving dynamics.

0–60-MPH Acceleration

In Car and Driver’s testing, the BMW i4 M50 achieved an impressive 0 to 60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds, outpacing even the rear-wheel-drive M3 Competition. The xDrive40, which we tested extensively with the M Sport package—including 19-inch summer tires, a sport-focused steering wheel, and aluminum interior trim—also delivered lively performance, reaching 60 mph in a respectable 4.4 seconds.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The EPA estimates the single-motor rear-wheel-drive i4 eDrive40 offers a driving range of approximately 301 miles on a full charge. The all-wheel-drive xDrive40, delivering 396 horsepower, achieves an EPA-rated range of 307 miles when equipped with the standard 18-inch wheels, though this drops to 282 miles with the optional 19-inch wheels.

While we have yet to test our long-term i4 xDrive40 on our 75-mph highway range route, previous testing of the i4 eDrive40 Gran Coupe returned a solid 280 miles — just two miles shy of its EPA estimate. For the most current and detailed efficiency ratings, refer to the EPA’s official website.

The top-tier M50, which shares the same 83.4-kWh battery pack as the eDrive40 and xDrive40, carries a slightly lower estimated range of 245 miles, reflecting its higher performance output.

All i4 models support a 200-kW fast-charging capacity, which BMW claims can add between 88 and 108 miles of range in just 10 minutes. In real-world testing, our long-term 2024 i4 xDrive40 replenished its battery from 10% to 90% charge in 38 minutes, achieving a peak charging rate of 208 kW and an average of 104 kW on a DC fast charger.

When using the Level 2 onboard charger (up to 11 kW), the i4 can fully recharge from empty to 100% in under 8 hours. Additionally, the vehicle supports storing up to five individual Plug & Charge contracts, allowing owners to automatically manage authentication and billing at compatible charging stations without the hassle of manual data or payment entry.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

According to EPA ratings, the most efficient BMW i4 variant is the eDrive40 equipped with standard 18-inch wheels, achieving an impressive 113 MPGe city and 111 MPGe highway. Opting for the larger 19-inch wheels slightly reduces efficiency to 106 MPGe city and 103 MPGe highway.

The high-performance M50 model sacrifices some efficiency for power, with EPA ratings of 94 MPGe city and 98 MPGe highway. When fitted with the optional 20-inch wheels, these figures further decline to 79 MPGe city and 80 MPGe highway.

The i4 xDrive40 strikes a balance, delivering 109 MPGe with 18-inch wheels, which drops to 99 MPGe when equipped with 19-inch wheels.

For the latest and detailed fuel economy information on the BMW i4, you can visit the EPA’s official website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The BMW i4’s cabin exudes luxury and attention to detail, offering upscale options such as rose gold trim, white leather upholstery, and light wood accents. Its overall layout is consistent with BMW’s signature design language, but the i4 — alongside the all-electric iX SUV — introduces a striking new feature: a large, seamless digital display that stretches across nearly two-thirds of the dashboard, creating a modern and immersive driver environment.

While the i4’s sleek four-door silhouette features a dramatic, coupe-like rear roofline, it retains a traditional trunk rather than a hatchback, balancing sporty styling with practical cargo space.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The BMW i4 was among the first models to debut BMW’s advanced iDrive 8 infotainment system, and for 2025, it receives an updated version called iDrive 8.5. This system features a large 14.9-inch touchscreen seamlessly integrated with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, both housed within a sweeping, curved display that dominates the dashboard.

Despite its impressive size, the horizontally oriented screen feels well-balanced and tasteful, avoiding the overly flashy designs seen in some competitor vehicles. Users can interact with the system via a traditional rotary controller on the center console or through sophisticated voice commands.

Connectivity options are comprehensive, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring drivers and passengers stay connected on the go.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2025 BMW i4 comes equipped with a robust suite of standard and available driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and convenience. Key features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning paired with automatic emergency braking

• Standard lane-departure warning along with lane-keeping assist

• Available adaptive cruise control featuring stop-and-go functionality for smoother highway driving

For detailed information on crash-test ratings, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW provides a strong warranty package for the 2025 i4, including one of the more generous complimentary maintenance programs in its class:

• Limited warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles

• Complimentary maintenance: 3 years or 36,000 miles

This coverage offers peace of mind for owners, combining solid protection with routine maintenance benefits.

2025 BMW i4 Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2025 BMW i4 strikes a strong chord for drivers seeking a refined, premium electric sedan that doesn’t compromise on driving engagement. The eDrive40 offers the best balance of range, price, and driving experience. The xDrive40 adds capability for those needing AWD without a huge performance price. The M50 delivers BMW‑grade thrust and dynamism but at an increased cost and lesser range.

Its biggest competition comes from Tesla’s combination of price, software, and charging network and alternative EVs that offer more frunk space or lower pricing. Still, for buyers who prioritize famous BMW ride quality, interior ambiance, and reliability, the i4 stands tall in its global electric luxury class.

2025 BMW i4 Videos