By: Krish Persaud
March 26, 2024
The BMW i4 xDrive40 exudes a unique design language that seamlessly merges classic sport sedan elements with contemporary sophistication. Its sleek lines and aerodynamic profile not only enhance its visual allure but also contribute to its overall performance efficiency. Inside, the cabin oozes luxury and refinement, with premium materials meticulously crafted to create an ambiance of elegance and comfort. We had the privilege of putting this 2024 BMW i4 xDrive40 through its paces for a week, courtesy of BMW Canada Inc.
At first glance, the Sunset Orange Metallic i4 catches the eye with its striking exterior design. Its sleek lines and aerodynamic profile blend seamlessly with the vibrant orange hue, creating a bold presence on the road. This electric vehicle offers a modern and stylish aesthetic, setting a new standard for electric mobility with its distinctive appearance
At the heart of the i4 xDrive40 lies a state-of-the-art electric drivetrain, delivering exhilarating performance and instant torque. With twin electric motors boasting 396 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, this sedan accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just over 5 seconds, showcasing its sporty prowess. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the i4 xDrive40 offers dynamic handling and precise steering, delivering a thrilling driving experience synonymous with the BMW brand.
As you step into the i4, you’ll immediately notice its spacious interior, offering ample room for passengers to unwind and relax. With versatile cargo space measuring 1270 liters with the seats down and 470 liters with the rear seats up, the i4 provides flexibility for storing luggage and gear. Plus, its rear air suspension guarantees a smooth and composed ride, effortlessly absorbing bumps and imperfections on the road.
Efficiency is a top priority in the i4 xDrive40’s design, emphasizing both range and energy conservation. Advanced battery technology and regenerative braking work together to optimize efficiency, enabling the sedan to achieve impressive mileage on a single charge. Additionally, its fast charging capability minimizes downtime, offering maximum convenience for drivers on the move.
Utilizing our home charger, Ivy Home, a smart level 2 40A unit providing up to 9.6 kWh of charge, we efficiently replenished the 81.1 kWh battery in under 6 hours, from 53% to 100%. The i4 can charge at a maximum of 205 kW on a DC fast charger. Expect up to 494 km of range under optimal conditions. However, during our winter test, factors such as climate control usage and the use of winter tires on our test unit, which can increase rolling resistance, led to a decrease in the observed range.
Safety and technology are seamlessly integrated into the i4 xDrive40, featuring a plethora of advanced features and driver assistance systems designed to enhance safety and convenience on the road. From collision warning and lane departure warning to adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist, the i4 xDrive40 provides peace of mind and confidence for drivers and passengers alike. The intuitive iDrive infotainment system ensures seamless connectivity and entertainment options, guaranteeing a connected and enjoyable driving experience for all occupants.
In the i4, you’ll enjoy the inclusion of the BMW Live Cockpit, a sophisticated feature that enhances your driving experience. With its high-resolution instrument cluster and central infotainment display, this advanced digital system keeps you connected and informed while on the road. It’s a seamless integration of navigation, entertainment, communication, and vehicle settings, providing intuitive access through touchscreen controls, voice commands, or the iDrive controller. Plus, features like the Intelligent Personal Assistant further elevate your driving experience, making every journey in the i4 both enjoyable and convenient.
With its competitive pricing and comprehensive feature set, the i4 xDrive40 offers exceptional value for drivers seeking a premium electric sedan. At the time of publishing, the i4 eDrive35 starts at $54,990, while the i4 eDrive40 is priced at $61,390. The base MSRP of the i4 xDrive40 is $69,900, and the i4 M50 xDrive is $77,500. Our i4 was also equipped with several additional packages, including the Premium Enhanced Package for $15,300, the M Sport Pro Package for $9,250, the Advanced Driver Assistance Package for $2,000, Sunset Orange Metallic Paint for $900, Aluminium Mesh Trim for $250, and Black Exterior Contents for $400, bringing our total as-tested price to $87,780.
Despite potentially commanding a higher price tag than some of its competitors, the i4 xDrive40 delivers unparalleled performance, comfort, and technology that justify its premium positioning. Furthermore, the potential savings on fuel and maintenance costs make the i4 xDrive40 a wise long-term investment for drivers committed to embracing electric mobility without compromise.
The 2024 BMW i4 xDrive40 stands as a formidable contender in the electric sedan market, presenting a compelling fusion of style, performance, and efficiency. From its striking design and exhilarating driving dynamics to its advanced technology and safety features, the i4 xDrive40 sets new benchmarks for electric mobility. With its blend of luxury, performance, and sustainability, the i4 xDrive40 epitomizes the future of automotive innovation, offering drivers an unparalleled driving experience that is both thrilling and environmentally conscious. With the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 in its sights, the i4 distinguishes itself with BMW engineering and race-inspired heritage. Additionally, for thrill-seekers who crave even more speed, the xDrive50 variant boasts a whopping 516 horsepower. Moreover, we are particularly pleased with the sweet spot where the xDrive40 sits, earning our enthusiastic endorsement.
