BMW's i4 is the latest in the car manufacturer's attempt to blend electrification with its history of producing high-performance luxury sedans. With up to 301 miles of range and the kind of performance that's to be expected from a BMW, the i4 is a sportier alternative to Tesla's Model 3, the Polestar 2, and the Mercedes-Benz EQE.
The 2023 BMW i4 is available in three models: the eDrive35, which uses a smaller battery pack, the eDrive40, which produces 335 horsepower, and the higher-performing i4 M50, which boasts a 536-horsepower engine. In this article, we will explore the 2023 BMW i4 M50, discussing what's new, the price, the engine, the design, the interior, and infotainment and connectivity features.
What's new in the 2023 BMW i4 M50?
While the i4 was only released last year, the 2023 model sees some minor changes. There is a new entry-level eDrive35 model that uses a smaller 66.0-kWh battery pack to achieve a claimed 260-mile range. BMW's M 50 Years special emblems are available on the i4 M50, and the 18-inch M Bi-color Midnight Grey wheels with all-season tires are no longer offered. The Iconic Sounds Electric option is available separately from the Premium package.
What’s the price of the 2023 BMW i4 M50?
The 2023 BMW i4 M50 starts at $69,695, including the $995 destination charge. The BMW i4 M50 is one of the most expensive models in its class, with the price exceeding the Tesla Model 3 Performance and the Polestar 2 too. However, BMW's higher level of luxury, fit, and finish may justify its higher price.
What powers the 2023 BMW i4 M50?
The 2023 BMW i4 M50 is powered by an 80.7-kWh battery pack and has an electric motor on both axles, providing all-wheel drive, producing 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque. The M50's dual electric motors produce enough power to make sports car enthusiasts take notice, with the car reaching 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. While for a quarter-mile distance, it takes 11.7 seconds.
The i4 M50 also comes with BMW's latest electric technology, which includes an adaptive recuperation system that can adjust the level of regenerative braking based on the driver's input and the road conditions. The system can also use data from the car's navigation system to predict when to engage the regenerative brakes, such as when approaching a downhill stretch or a roundabout.
Also Read:
How does the 2023 BMW i4 M50 Drive?
The 2023 BMW i4 M50 delivers an impressive driving experience, with all the stopping grip translating to cornering grip, resulting in a composed and stable ride. The car sticks to the road well and handles corners with ease, though it may feel a bit restrained around a handling circuit, not allowing access to its full power unless the steering wheel is pointed straight down the road. While the i4 may not provide that dramatic tire-spinning experience, its impressive traction and stability safety nets make it a joy to drive.
Range and charging
In terms of range and charging, the BMW i4 M50 comes with an 80.7-kWh battery pack that can be charged through a combined charging system port, which is located in the same spot as the gas cap on the combustion-powered 4 Series. The battery can be recharged in around 8.25 hours using an 11-kilowatt AC charger (Level 2), or optimally charged from 10 to 80% full in just 31 minutes using a 200-kW DC fast charger. BMW also includes two years of complimentary 30-min charging sessions with Electrify America for new i4 owners. While there are faster-charging EVs available, the i4's charging time is quick enough for most drivers, particularly given the current availability of 200-kW-plus charging stations.
Any Experiments With Design?
The 2023 BMW i4 M50 doesn't deviate much from the brand's classic design language, with the most significant difference being the closed-off front grille. The car's appearance is rounded and sleek, with a few accents that indicate its electric powertrain, such as the blue "i" badges on the front and back, blue brake calipers, and a blue accent strip between the headlights.
Is the BMW i4 M50 spacious?
The BMW i4 M50 is a comfortable sedan with ample space for both front and rear passengers. While the back seats may be tight for taller passengers, the interior materials are luxurious, with a standard panoramic sunroof adding to the overall ambiance. The trunk is large, with plenty of space for cargo, making the BMW i4 M50 a great choice for both short and long trips.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2023 BMW i4 M50 has a well-designed and intuitive infotainment system. The 14.9-inch touchscreen has crisp graphics and a responsive interface, with easy-to-navigate menus. The i4 M50 comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with wireless charging and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
Also Read:
- Finding The Right Fit: Choosing The Best Tires For Your Vehicle
- The Many Types of Differentials and Their Uses In Automobiles
- The Cheapest BWM Cars You Can Own In 2022
