BMW i4 2024 review
Photo: Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The BMW i4 proves electric cars can still be driver''s cars. The eDrive40 pairs an 83.9kWh battery with around 360 miles of range and the balanced, rear-driven handling that made BMW famous. The Gran Coupe body is sleek and practical, with a hatchback tailgate and room for four adults. Inside, the curved display and iDrive 8.5 are slick, and build quality is a cut above most EV rivals. It is not cheap, but as an electric executive car that you actually want to drive, the i4 remains the benchmark.
The i4 proves electric cars can still be proper BMWs. The sleek Gran Coupe body hides a low centre of gravity, the rear-wheel-drive chassis delivers the balanced, adjustable handling the brand is famous for, and the cabin feels like a 4 Series that simply happens to be electric. It is the thinking driver's EV — no gimmicks, just pace, poise and polish.
From £54,000 it squares up to the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2, countering with superior build quality and long-distance refinement. For UK buyers, a home wallbox unlocks cheap overnight charging that slashes running costs compared with petrol. Without home charging, plan public charging stops carefully — but as a company car, the benefit-in-kind savings alone can justify the switch.
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UK price from: £54,000
Specifications
| Engine | Single motor EV |
| Power | 335hp |
| 0-62 mph | 5.7 seconds |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Fuel type | Electric |
| Range | 360 miles |
| CO2 emissions | 0g/km |
| Seats | 5 |
| Boot space | 470 litres |
| Insurance group | 42 |
Features
- Key features: 83.9kWh battery, ~360-mile range; 210kW DC fast charging; BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8.5; Harman Kardon surround sound; Adaptive M suspension; Heat pump; Driving Assistant Professional; Power tailgate
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads | £99.99 | M Sport brakes; long life thanks to regen |
| Cabin pollen filter | £26.99 | Change annually for clear air |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £29.99 | Aero blades; replace yearly |
| 12V battery | £139.99 | Auxiliary battery; register with the car after fitting |
| Tyre sealant kit | £44.99 | No spare; keep sealant in date |
| Charge port flap actuator | £59.99 | Common wear item; easy DIY swap |
Pros
- Superb to drive. Long range. Premium interior. Fast 210kW charging.
Cons
- High price. Rear headroom is tight. Options escalate the cost quickly.
