BMW I4 EDrive40 2025: Test Drive & Review

Alright, buckle up, folks! We’re diving deep into the electrifying world of the 2025 BMW i4 eDrive40. If you're anything like me, you’re probably wondering if this all-electric Gran Coupe lives up to the hype. Well, after spending some quality time behind the wheel, I’m here to give you the lowdown. Is it a true BMW? Does it deliver on the electric promise? Let's get into the nitty-gritty.

First Impressions: Sleek and Familiar

From the outside, the i4 eDrive40 screams BMW. It’s got that classic kidney grille (though, let's be honest, it’s mostly for show now), a sleek silhouette, and those iconic Hofmeister kinks. It blends in with the BMW family while still hinting at its electric heart. The design is more evolutionary than revolutionary, which might be a good thing for those not quite ready to embrace full-on futuristic styling. The car looks premium, feels premium, and that's a solid start.

Stepping inside, you’re greeted with a cabin that’s both modern and familiar. The curved display, housing both the infotainment screen and the digital instrument cluster, is a standout feature. The materials feel high-quality, and the overall layout is driver-focused, as you'd expect from BMW. There’s a sense of understated luxury that permeates the interior. It’s comfortable, well-appointed, and a pleasant place to spend time, whether you’re tackling your daily commute or embarking on a longer road trip. The seats offer excellent support, and there's plenty of adjustability to find your perfect driving position. Visibility is generally good, though the sloping roofline can slightly impact rearward vision. Overall, the interior is a successful blend of technology and traditional BMW craftsmanship.

Performance and Handling: The Electric Punch

Now, let's talk about what really matters: the drive. The eDrive40 boasts a single electric motor powering the rear wheels, producing a healthy 335 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. That translates to a 0-60 mph time of around 5.5 seconds. Quick enough to be fun, but not so neck-snappingly fast that it becomes tiresome. The power delivery is smooth and instant, as you'd expect from an electric car. There's no waiting for turbo lag or downshifts; just press the accelerator, and you're off.

The handling is where the i4 truly shines. BMW has managed to retain that signature driving feel, even with the added weight of the battery pack. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. The car feels planted and confident in corners, and the adaptive suspension (if equipped) does an excellent job of smoothing out bumps and imperfections. It’s not a sports car, but it’s certainly more engaging to drive than many other electric vehicles on the market. The i4 strikes a great balance between comfort and performance, making it a joy to drive in a variety of conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or carving through winding roads, the i4 delivers a rewarding driving experience. The regenerative braking system is also well-tuned, allowing for one-pedal driving in many situations. This not only enhances efficiency but also adds to the overall driving pleasure.

Range and Charging: Living with an EV

The i4 eDrive40 offers a respectable range of around 300 miles on a full charge, according to EPA estimates. Of course, your actual range will vary depending on driving conditions, temperature, and how heavy your right foot is. During my testing, I found the range to be fairly accurate, though I did notice a drop in colder weather.

Charging is relatively straightforward. Using a Level 2 charger (240V), you can fully charge the battery in around 8 hours. DC fast charging is also supported, allowing you to add significant range in a shorter amount of time. BMW includes two years of complimentary charging at Electrify America stations, which is a nice perk. Planning your routes and charging stops is essential for longer journeys, but the i4's navigation system does a good job of integrating charging locations into your route. Overall, the i4 makes living with an EV relatively painless, thanks to its decent range and fast charging capabilities.

Technology and Features: All the Gadgets

The 2025 i4 eDrive40 is packed with technology. The iDrive 8 infotainment system is a highlight, with its intuitive interface, crisp graphics, and responsive touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. These include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

The voice control system is also quite good, allowing you to control many of the car's functions with natural language commands. The optional Harman Kardon sound system delivers excellent audio quality, making your driving experience even more enjoyable. The i4 also offers over-the-air software updates, ensuring that your car stays up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. Overall, the i4's technology suite is comprehensive and well-integrated, enhancing both the driving experience and the car's overall usability.

The Verdict: A Compelling Electric BMW

So, what's the final word on the 2025 BMW i4 eDrive40? It's a compelling electric vehicle that stays true to its BMW roots. It offers a blend of performance, luxury, and technology that's hard to beat. While it may not be the cheapest EV on the market, it delivers a premium experience that justifies the price. If you're looking for an electric car that's fun to drive, comfortable, and packed with features, the i4 eDrive40 should definitely be on your list.

Pros:

• Excellent driving dynamics
• Premium interior and build quality
• Long driving range
• Fast charging capabilities
• Advanced technology features

Cons:

• Pricey compared to some competitors
• Styling may not be for everyone
• Rear visibility could be better

Overall, the i4 eDrive40 is a fantastic electric car that's well worth considering. It's a true BMW that just happens to be electric, and that's a winning combination.