The i4 still sets benchmark standards for drive dynamics in the mid-sized EV segment. But the combustion-orientated chassis that allows it to do that compromises practicality and rear seat space. If that's not an issue and you don't mind paying a touch more than expected for your mid-sized premium-badged EV, then there's lots to like here.
We can't really see why you'd compromise with the smaller-battery eDrive35 version. Or why you'd really need the manic performance of the top M50 variant. Which leaves the mid-level eDrive40 model offering the sweet spot in the range. It's a pity BMW hasn't invested in the 800V architecture that features in some rivals for ultra-rapid charging. But battery charging speeds are very competitive by 400V system standards. 
The challenge now is to BMW to replicate the engaging handling on offer here as part of the bespoke 'Neue Klasse' EV chassis that will be used in the brand's future electric models. What we need from them is what we've got from this i4; which feels like a BMW to the core, from its rear-biased drive system to the style of the panel work and the iDrive-cleverness of the interior. Previously, if you loved BMWs but needed an EV, you really needed to buy something else. Now the Munich maker has your number. And this might well be it.

ISOFIX child seat mounting on rear outer seats

Central locking including 2 vehicle keys with integrated emergency key

Ambient lighting front and rear with 9 selectable colours

40:20:40 split folding rear seat and rear centre armrest with two cupholders

Anti lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist

3 spoke flat bottom M sport leather steering wheel

Electric windows with trap release and convenient opening/closing feature

Automatic air conditioning with 3 zone control

Rain sensor including auto headlights activation

Ambient light design projected onto the left and right entering and exiting area

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Charge Time (Mins)

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Power Supply - kW

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Percentage Change

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Charge Time (Mins)

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Power Supply - kW

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Percentage Change

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Charge Time (Mins)

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Power Supply - kW

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Percentage Change

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Charge Time (Mins)

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Power Supply - kW

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Percentage Change

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Years

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Mileage

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Low - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Low - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Medium - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Medium - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - High - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - High - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Extra High

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Extra High - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Extra High - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - City - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - City - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb - TEH

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Extra High

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Ex High - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Ex High - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - City

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - City - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - City - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - High

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - High - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - High - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Low - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Low - TEL

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Medium

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Medium - TEH

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Medium - TEL

Battery Capacity % guaranteed under warranty

BMW i4 Gran Coupe

250kW eDrive40 M Sport 83.9kWh 5dr Auto