From the moment you settle into the driver’s seat and press the accelerator, the Bmw I4 M50 Gran Coupe announces itself as a remarkable electric vehicle. In a market increasingly populated with electric crossovers and SUVs, this all-electric sedan delivers a refreshing and exhilarating driving experience. After spending a week behind the wheel of the 2025 BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, it’s clear – this is not just another EV; it’s arguably the most enjoyable electric car of the year.
Positioned as a luxury all-electric sports car, the i4 M50 commands a starting MSRP of $70,700. Equipped with various options and packages, the model tested reached approximately $76,575. While this price point positions it firmly in the luxury segment, the i4 M50’s presence and appeal are undeniable. It garnered more attention and compliments than other luxury EVs, even surpassing the Kia EV9 in terms of public admiration.
However, in the competitive landscape of luxury EVs, visual appeal alone isn’t sufficient. The BMW i4 M50 must stand its ground against rivals like the Lucid Air Pure, Cadillac Lyriq, and Genesis GV60. This review delves into the aspects that make the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe stand out, examining both its strengths and weaknesses.
2025 BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe: Key Specifications
| Feature | 2025 BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe |
|---|---|
| Battery | 83 kWh |
| Motor | Dual motor 200–400 kW |
| Range | 267 miles |
| Horsepower | 536 hp |
| Wheels | 20-inches |
| MSRP | $70,700 |
2025 BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe: Week-Long Test Drive Experience
(Image credit: Future) – Odometer reading of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe after a week of test driving, showcasing the mileage accumulated.
The BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe proved to be more engaging than initially anticipated. Covering 461.5 miles during the test week, it nearly matched the mileage of the Chevrolet Equinox EV 2LT, which was the only EV driven further. The sporty nature of the i4 M50, characterized by its rapid acceleration and precise steering, evoked nostalgic memories of classic racing games like Ridge Racer and Gran Turismo.
Efficiency-wise, the test drive yielded 2.9 mi/kWh, slightly below the 3 mi/kWh benchmark. However, for drivers drawn to the performance of the i4 M50, efficiency is likely a secondary concern. While not the most efficient EV, it’s far from being inefficient. Daily driving would necessitate regular overnight charging to maintain optimal battery levels, or more frequent stops at charging stations.
Charging was primarily conducted at home using Level 1 charging through a standard outlet. This method, while convenient, is notably slow, averaging a 1kW charging speed. In a 7 hour and 17-minute charging session, only 16 miles of range were added. For owners of the BMW i4 M50, investing in a Level 2 charger for home installation would be a worthwhile upgrade, significantly reducing charging times and enhancing usability.
- Total Distance Driven: 461.5 miles
- Average Efficiency: 2.9 mi/kWh
- Range Added with Level 1 Charging (7.28 hours): 16 miles
- Charge Level Increase (in 7.28 hours): 60% to 67%
- Level 1 Recharge Rate: 2.19 mi/hour
2025 BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe: Standout Features
Precision Steering and Handling
(Image credit: Future) – Close-up of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s steering wheel, highlighting the sporty design and driver-centric cockpit.
The BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s tight steering is a defining characteristic, making it exceptionally enjoyable to drive. Its responsive handling allows for confident navigation of winding roads, surpassing the agility typically found in crossovers or SUVs. The car feels planted and stable, with steering that reacts immediately to inputs, providing excellent lane control and inspiring confidence even when cornering at speed. This precise steering enhances the connection between driver and machine, contributing significantly to the overall driving pleasure.
Thrilling Acceleration Performance
(Image credit: Future) – Detailed view of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s wheel, showcasing the aerodynamic design and performance-oriented features like M Sport brakes.
Unlike some EVs that require a dedicated boost mode for maximum power, the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe delivers instant and potent acceleration in any driving mode. Even in the energy-conscious Eco-Pro mode, the 536 horsepower powertrain provides a forceful surge of power, pressing occupants firmly into their seats upon hard acceleration. This exhilarating acceleration is a key factor in the i4 M50’s appeal, making every drive an engaging and exciting experience. The immediacy of the power delivery is a hallmark of high-performance EVs, and the i4 M50 exemplifies this trait perfectly.
Sporty Luxury Aesthetic
(Image credit: Future) – Striking side view of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, emphasizing its sleek Gran Coupe silhouette and vibrant Vegas Red Metallic paint.
The design of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe is undeniably striking, drawing compliments and attention wherever it goes. Despite being classified as a sedan, its Gran Coupe styling lends it a coupe-like profile, blending sportiness with luxury seamlessly. The Vegas Red Metallic paint finish further enhances its visual appeal, exhibiting a dynamic sparkle that catches the light beautifully. This design language positions the i4 M50 as not just a mode of transport, but a statement of style and sophistication.
Expansive Head-Up Display
(Image credit: Future) – Animated display of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s Head-Up Display (HUD), demonstrating navigation prompts and driving information projected onto the windshield.
As expected for a luxury vehicle in its price range, the BMW i4 M50 features a head-up display (HUD). However, the i4 M50’s HUD is notably larger and more prominent than average, projecting crisp and bright information directly into the driver’s line of sight. This feature minimizes distractions, allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road while monitoring speed and navigation prompts from Google Maps or Apple Maps. The size and clarity of the HUD enhance both safety and convenience, underscoring the i4 M50’s premium nature.
High-Clarity Display Screens
(Image credit: Future) – Interior shot of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, focusing on the 14.5-inch central touchscreen display and modern dashboard layout.
While many modern EVs boast bright displays, the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s screens excel in visibility under all lighting conditions. The vehicle is equipped with a 14.5-inch main touchscreen display and a 12.3-inch instrument panel, both constructed from high-quality panels that resist glare and maintain clarity even in direct sunlight. This ensures that vital information and infotainment are easily accessible and readable at any time of day, enhancing the user experience.
Superior Cabin Sound Insulation
(Image credit: Future) – Front-side angle of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, highlighting its aerodynamic profile and premium design elements.
A hallmark of luxury vehicles is their ability to isolate occupants from external noise, and the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe excels in this aspect. The cabin offers exceptional soundproofing, creating a remarkably quiet environment, especially at highway speeds. Driving through urban environments or tunnels, closing the windows transforms the interior into a serene space, effectively muting outside sounds. This level of sound insulation enhances the sense of luxury and refinement, making every journey more pleasant and relaxed. It’s akin to experiencing the tranquility of high-end noise-canceling headphones, but within the confines of a car.
Refined Cruise Control System
(Image credit: Future) – GIF demonstrating the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s smart cruise control system, showing smooth adjustments in speed and distance.
Smart cruise control is increasingly common, but the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s system stands out for its smoothness and responsiveness. It reacts to changing road conditions with subtle braking and acceleration adjustments, providing a confident and comfortable automated driving experience. The system avoids abrupt acceleration to reach the set speed, contributing to a more relaxed and premium driving feel. This refined cruise control enhances both convenience and safety, especially on longer journeys.
Striking Lighting Design
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(Image credit: Future) – Front view of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe at night, emphasizing its distinctive LED headlight design and illuminated kidney grille.
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(Image credit: Future) – Rear view of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe at night, showcasing the unique LED taillight design inspired by Edison light bulbs.
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(Image credit: Future) – Interior view of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe at night, highlighting the customizable ambient lighting and illuminated door sills.
The BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s lighting design is captivating both day and night. The exterior lighting features a distinctive sequence upon unlocking, while the rear brake lights are designed to resemble Edison light bulbs with intricate filament-like patterns. Inside, customizable ambient lighting allows for personalization of the cabin atmosphere, complemented by practical touches like door-mounted spotlights that illuminate the ground upon entry and exit. This comprehensive lighting design enhances both the aesthetic appeal and functional aspects of the vehicle.
2025 BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe: Areas for Improvement
Limited Rear Passenger Space
(Image credit: Future) – Image showing the trunk and rear seating area of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, highlighting the limited legroom and coupe-like roofline.
Despite its sedan classification, the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s rear seating area is more akin to that of a coupe. While rear doors add convenience, the limited legroom and sloping roofline result in a cramped feeling for adult passengers. This may not be an issue for younger children, but taller individuals might find the rear seats uncomfortable, especially on longer journeys. The compromise in rear passenger space is a trade-off for the vehicle’s sleek profile and sporty design.
Absence of Blind Spot View Monitor
(Image credit: Future) – Driver’s perspective of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s cockpit, focusing on the steering wheel controls and instrument panel.
Surprisingly, the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe lacks the option for blind spot cameras, a feature increasingly common and appreciated in modern EVs, particularly in the luxury segment. Instead, it relies on traditional blind spot monitoring sensors that illuminate mirror indicators and vibrate the steering wheel to alert the driver. While functional, these systems are not as visually informative as camera-based blind spot view monitors, which display a live video feed of the blind spot in the instrument panel when turn signals are activated. The absence of this feature is an unexpected omission in a vehicle of this caliber.
Moderate Driving Range
(Image credit: Future) – Close-up of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s center console, featuring the gear selector, drive mode buttons, and premium interior materials.
While some EVs offer shorter ranges, the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s 267-mile range from its 83 kWh battery is somewhat modest, especially when considering its price and positioning as a luxury EV. It is not designed for long-distance travel in the same vein as some plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and falls short of the 300-mile benchmark often considered ideal for an EV. Although the performance and handling are compelling, a range closer to 300 miles would enhance its practicality and appeal, mitigating range anxiety for potential buyers.
2025 BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe: Final Verdict
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(Image credit: Future) – Action shot of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe in motion, emphasizing its sporty handling and dynamic performance on a winding road.
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(Image credit: Future) – Frontal view of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, showcasing its aggressive front fascia and BMW kidney grille design.
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(Image credit: Future) – Interior detail of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, highlighting the premium materials, stitching, and overall luxurious cabin ambiance.
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(Image credit: Future) – Action shot of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe taking a corner, illustrating its agile handling and sporty suspension.
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(Image credit: Future) – Wide view of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s dashboard, showing the integrated digital displays and driver-oriented cockpit design.
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(Image credit: Future) – Image focusing on the rear seats of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, illustrating the legroom and space limitations for rear passengers.
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(Image credit: Future) – Close-up of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s charging port, highlighting the EV charging infrastructure compatibility.
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(Image credit: Future) – Detail shot of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s Vegas Red Metallic paint, showcasing its vibrant color and metallic finish.
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(Image credit: Future) – Close-up of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s wheels and tires, emphasizing the sporty wheel design and performance tires.
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(Image credit: Future) – BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe pictured in an urban environment, demonstrating its suitability for city driving and stylish appeal.
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(Image credit: Future) – BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe parked at an EV charging station, highlighting its electric vehicle nature.
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(Image credit: Future) – Detailed image of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s interior ambient lighting, showcasing the customizable color options.
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(Image credit: Future) – Close-up of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe’s badging and BMW logo, emphasizing its brand identity and model designation.
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(Image credit: Future) – Rear three-quarter view of the BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe, highlighting its sloping roofline and sporty rear design.
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(Image credit: Future) – BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe driving on an open road, conveying a sense of freedom, performance, and electric mobility.
If a second test drive of any EV were on the cards, the 2025 BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe would be a top contender. It stands out as an electrifying vehicle excelling in performance and handling, complemented by an eye-catching design, striking lighting, and premium features. While it may not be the ideal primary family vehicle due to its limited range and rear space, it serves as an exceptional secondary car for urban commutes and spirited drives, especially for those with the budget to indulge. The BMW i4 M50 Gran Coupe successfully blends the thrill of electric performance with the luxury and refinement expected from the BMW marque.
