2024 BMW i4 M50 Review: High Price, Limited Range, and Lacking the Fun Factor

During a recent test drive, the 2024 BMW i4 M50, while impressive in specifications, didn't quite deliver on excitement. As we await the Neue Klasse series from BMW set to debut in 2025, the i4 currently stands as the initial foray into the electric market for the brand. Yet, with a price tag close to $90,000 for the high-end i4 M50 model, it hardly seems like a typical starting point for electric vehicle enthusiasts.

Since the i4 hatchback hit the scene, there's been a slight shift in its competitive landscape. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 proved that sedans sporting a similar sleek roof design can offer ample space and high efficiency. Meanwhile, the Polestar 2 has pivoted towards prioritizing rear-wheel drive. But the standout change has to be the total overhaul of the Tesla Model 3 Performance.

2024 model of the BMW i4 M50

Upcoming 2024 model of the BMW i

2024 Model of BMW's i4 M50

Spending additional hours behind the wheel of the i4 reinforced my view that this line of electric vehicles stands as a formidable competitor to similar models, yet it distinctly focuses on transitioning BMW’s renowned driving dynamics into the electric vehicle domain. This experience also led to the insight that the more basic i4 models offer this signature experience in a subtler manner compared to the M50.

Spending time with the i4 M50, it's debatable if it's the peak of electric vehicles, but it's undeniable that the seamless wireless Apple CarPlay, the top-notch Harman Kardon audio system, the streamlined interface borrowed from the i5 and i7, and the crisp head-up display that offers considerable interface adaptability, all contribute to its appeal.

During a brief period this spring, I had the opportunity to drive the i4 M50 from Portland to a gathering at Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, Washington, and then return. Unfortunately, I didn't get the chance to test it on the racetrack. However, I did manage to navigate through some beloved backroads and complete a few local chores. Here's a rundown of the advantages and disadvantages of the i4 based on my personal use.

2024 model of the BMW i4 M50

Upcoming 2024 model of the BMW i

Upcoming 2024 model of the BMW i

Advantage: The M50 model boasts dynamic acceleration and responsive handling.

The BMW i4 M50's acceleration is robust, almost rivaling that of a supercar, owing to its dual permanent-magnet motors which produce 469 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque, increasing to 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet in Sport Boost mode. The M50, with its official 0 to 60 mph time of 3.7 seconds, noticeably outperforms the i4 eDrive40's rear-wheel drive, which clocks in at approximately 5.4 seconds to reach 60 mph from its 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet motor. This might be due to the superior grip provided by the M50's tires, which effectively utilize the traction available. Additionally, the M50 features exceptionally swift and accurate steering that complements the all-wheel-drive electric powertrain's characteristics, though an enhanced steering feel would be preferable.

Upcoming 2024 model of the BMW i

Negative: Lacks the feel of a 3-Series behind the wheel

When you navigate the i4, particularly in its M50 variant, on winding roads, its weight becomes quite apparent. It aligns more with the feel of an 8-Series rather than a 4-Series. The i4 M50 has a significant heft, clocking in at an official weight of 5,018 pounds. That's a whole 1,000 pounds heavier than the current 840i coupe and about 1,500 pounds heavier than the standard 2024 3-Series. Although there was a brief moment where I tapped into the impressive grip of the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Elect summer tires—with sizes of 255/35R20 at the front and 285/30R20 at the rear—the steering feedback was lacking. It didn't provide the kind of road communication or confidence that you'd find in the iX electric SUV, or even the eDrive40 that I tested on similar roads two years back. The ride quality of the M50 on the highway also leaves room for improvement. Despite being equipped with air suspension, adaptive M dampers, custom anti-roll bars, and a strut brace at the front, the ride doesn't feel quite right. The issue may not be just the weight, but perhaps also the complexity of the setup.

The 2023 model of the BMW i4 eDrive

Advantage: The BMW i4 charges swiftly as expected

While the i4 doesn't top the charts in terms of charging speed or power, BMW's track record for dependable DC rapid-charging continues with the i4 M50. During a travel break, connecting to a 350-kw EVgo charging point at a mere 4% battery life, the vehicle swiftly surged to approximately 205 kw. In just half an hour, the battery was replenished to 71%.

Upcoming 2024 model of the BMW i

Green Car Reports has previously highlighted that opting for a 150-kw charging point doesn't significantly affect charging times. For instance, when I connected the former i4 eDrive40 model at a mere 3%, it reached 67% after half an hour. Curious about the charging efficiency under less than ideal conditions, I connected the M50 model at 40% and within just 10 minutes, the charge level rose to 62%.

2024 Model of the BMW i4 M50

Upcoming 2024 model of the BMW i

2024 model of the BMW i4 M50

Con: M50 doesn't live up to expectations in distance and power efficiency

During my experience with the i4 M50, it was equipped with the optional 20-inch rims, which also included M-specific wheels, upgraded M Sport brakes, and Shadowline exterior features and lighting. The appearance of the i4 is quite impressive with these add-ons, but they come at a cost exceeding the initial $2,500. Moreover, these wheels compromise the ride's comfort and significantly decrease the vehicle's driving range compared to the standard 19-inch wheels that come with the M50. The M50's officially stated range by the EPA falls from 269 miles with the 19-inch wheels to just 227 miles when outfitted with the 20-inch wheels like those on the model I tested. This is a notable reduction from the 301 miles that the eDrive40 model can achieve, despite both models sharing the same 80.7-kWh battery capacity.

Upcoming 2023 Model of BMW i4 eDrive

Be aware that the 2025 BMW i4 series is set to receive a slight increase in driving range along with an updated interior design.

During my journey of 336 miles in the i4, the onboard trip computer showed an average efficiency of 2.6 miles per kilowatt-hour, with most of the driving done on highways. The outside temperature was around 55 degrees while the automatic climate control was set between 69 and 72 degrees. Although the eDrive40 appears to exceed its expected range, I found the M50's estimated 227 miles to be a bit too hopeful under actual driving conditions. I'm fairly confident that the Polestar 2, particularly with the Performance package, surpasses the M50 in everyday usage, which aligns with its EPA rating of 247 miles.

2024 Model of the BMW i4 M50

Upcoming 2024 model of the BMW i

Upcoming 2024 model of the BMW i

Advantage: Front Seating in the i4

The front seating arrangement of the BMW i4 stands out, particularly with its sporty seats that offer the convenience of adjustable thigh support and the ability to modify the width for the person at the wheel. True, the central console's design isn't as spacious as one might find in vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 or Tesla Model 3, yet it becomes familiar in no time, and more importantly, those seats provide a rejuvenating experience, even after long stretches of driving.

2023 edition of the BMW i4 eDrive40 model

Downside: Cramped Rear Seating Area

The BMW 3-Series has historically struggled with offering ample space in the rear seats, and the i4 continues this trend, perhaps even exacerbating it. Entry into the back of the i4 is a challenge due to the slim doorways and the significantly lower roof, particularly near the doors, making it a tight squeeze. Legroom is virtually non-existent behind a front seat set for someone six feet tall, and taller individuals will find their heads pressed against the soft ceiling liner. BMW has started to refer to the i4 as a Gran Coupe in its 2024 promotional materials and on the car's information label, a change from 2023, possibly to underscore the trade-off for its stylish but space-compromising design. The trunk space is a mere 10.0 cubic feet when the back seats are up, but it expands to a generous 45.6 cubic feet when they're folded down. Opting for the latter makes more sense; after all, it's designed to function as a hatchback with the essence of a coupe.

2023 Model of the BMW i4 eDrive40

The 2024 BMW i4 M50 starts at a price of $70,695, but with additional features like the M Sport Package Pro, high-performance tires, and various other upgrades, the price jumps to $87,845. It's powered by two permanent-magnet motors that provide a standard output of 469 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque, which can be boosted to 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque. This all-wheel-drive vehicle has an electric range of 227 miles and a combined efficiency of 2.4 miles per kilowatt-hour according to EPA estimates. The vehicle shines with its robust powertrain, responsive steering, consistent charging durations, and comfortable front seats. However, it falls short with its cramped rear seating, overly assertive driving dynamics, and the M50 model's disappointing range and efficiency figures.

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