This comprehensive review of the BMW I4 Edrive35 stems from personal experience, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses based on individual needs and preferences. It’s crucial to remember that car preferences are subjective, and your ownership experience might differ. This detailed account outlines the decision-making process that led to choosing the BMW i4 eDrive35 as a new daily driver, succeeding a Tesla Model 3 Performance.
BMW i4 eDrive35 Exterior Design
While subjective, the BMW i4 eDrive35 presents a design that is, in my view, genuinely appealing from the side, rear, and even the front perspectives. The front fascia, initially a point of contention for some, has grown in appreciation over time and now exudes a sophisticated presence. The silver color, initially perceived as understated, is now valued for its refined and elegant aesthetic, particularly complementing a more flamboyant sports car in the garage. The build quality of the i4 eDrive35 is demonstrably superior, surpassing that of previous BMW models, conveying a tangible sense of premium craftsmanship. The paint finish is notably excellent, exceeding the standard observed in a former Tesla Model 3. Subtle yet appreciated details, such as the light-colored carpeting, further enhance the interior ambiance.
BMW i4 eDrive35 Performance Analysis
It’s important to preface this section by acknowledging that the BMW i4 eDrive35 is indeed less accelerative than a Tesla Model 3 Performance. Positioned as the entry-level electric vehicle in BMW’s lineup, its performance should be evaluated within context. BMW officially quotes figures of 282 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque, and a 0-60 mph sprint time of 5.8 seconds. True to BMW tradition, these figures are likely conservative, understating the car’s actual capabilities. The i4 eDrive35 feels remarkably brisk in real-world driving up to around 50 mph. The sensation of rapid acceleration is particularly pronounced when applying full throttle from a rolling 30 mph start, possibly attributable to its rear-wheel-drive configuration and effective traction management. In the 50-80 mph range, the i4 eDrive35 demonstrates comparable swiftness to combustion-engine BMW models like the 330i or 430i. The instantaneous throttle response inherent in electric powertrains and the seamless power delivery may even create a perception of greater speed. Beyond 80 mph, the acceleration tapers off, becoming adequate rather than exhilarating. While it may not deliver the breathtaking acceleration of higher-performance EVs, the BMW i4 eDrive35 handily outperforms the majority of vehicles on the road, offering effortless and responsive performance ideally suited for everyday driving scenarios.
BMW i4 eDrive35 Efficiency and Range
The EPA estimates the BMW i4 eDrive35 with a range of 260 miles. Real-world highway testing at approximately 75 mph with air conditioning in operation yields an energy consumption rate of 3.8-4.3 miles per kWh. This translates to a highway range that meets or slightly exceeds 260 miles even with air conditioning engaged. Consequently, the highway range of the i4 eDrive35 is on par with, or marginally better than, a Model 3, which had an EPA-rated range of 310 miles. However, in local driving conditions characterized by frequent speed variations, the i4 eDrive35 exhibits lower efficiency compared to the Tesla Model 3 Performance. The stop-and-go nature of city driving likely penalizes the i4’s increased weight. Local efficiency averages around 3 miles per kWh, resulting in a real-world range of approximately 200 miles in such conditions. This reduced local range is not a significant concern, as home charging is the primary charging method, and typical trip lengths remain within a 150 to 180-mile radius. Notably, the vehicle includes two years of complimentary charging via Electrify America, which has proven to be a convenient and reliable resource for occasional public charging needs.
BMW i4 eDrive35 Handling Dynamics
Despite its slightly reduced range compared to some EVs, a notable advantage of the BMW i4 eDrive35 is its lighter weight. It weighs approximately 500 pounds less than the BMW i4 M50, a weight reduction primarily concentrated at the front end. The steering feel closely mirrors that of traditional internal combustion engine BMW 3 or 4 Series models. While the i4 eDrive35 is demonstrably heavier than its ICE counterparts, the low center of gravity effectively mitigates the perceived weight increase during typical daily driving scenarios. Overall, the BMW i4 eDrive35 delivers a highly competent and sporty driving experience as a sedan. However, it does not quite reach the benchmark handling prowess of top-tier ICE sports sedans like the M340i or Alfa-Romeo Giulia.
BMW i4 eDrive35 Interior Technology and Design
A primary factor in choosing the BMW i4 eDrive35 over competing electric vehicles is its superior interior technology. BMW’s in-car technology, particularly when fully optioned, is genuinely impressive. The iDrive 8 infotainment system stands out as the most refined and user-friendly system among German luxury automakers. BMW’s Head-up Display offers exceptional clarity and functionality, enhancing the driving experience. The driver-assistance technology suite is comparable to Tesla’s Enhanced Autopilot. Lane-keeping assist performs at a similar level to the Model 3, although it might not navigate extremely sharp curves with the same finesse. Critically, unlike experiences with the Model 3, phantom braking incidents have been completely absent in the i4 eDrive35. The automatic lane-changing feature operates as effectively as Tesla’s EAP. A standout feature is Traffic Jam Assist, which provides genuine hands-free driving capability, enabled by attention monitoring, at speeds up to 40 mph. This system proves particularly valuable in congested traffic conditions.
BMW i4 eDrive35 Premium Interior Quality
While the standard interior materials are adequate (personal preference leans away from SensaTec), the overall build quality of the i4 eDrive35’s cabin is excellent. However, the most compelling aspect of the interior is its exceptional sound insulation. While not achieving the near-silent ambiance of the BMW iX, the i4 eDrive35 ranks among the quietest vehicles experienced, even surpassing a 2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class in terms of noise isolation (aided by the 18-inch wheel configuration). This sound refinement distinguishes the BMW i4 eDrive35 from the Model 3 significantly. Independent testing has indicated a 4-6 dB noise reduction at highway speeds compared to the Model 3. Given the logarithmic nature of the decibel scale, this difference represents a substantial improvement. The result is a genuinely premium and relaxed highway driving experience that was lacking in the Model 3 Performance. In the Model 3, increased music volume was often necessary to overcome road noise, whereas in the BMW i4 eDrive35, music is sometimes played simply to maintain alertness in the serene cabin environment.
Conclusion: The BMW i4 eDrive35 as a Daily Driver
Considering its electric powertrain, advanced in-cabin technology, and premium interior ambiance, the BMW i4 eDrive35 emerges as a compelling choice for daily driving, particularly for individuals with similar priorities. While other electric vehicles may excel in specific areas or offer greater cost-effectiveness, the BMW i4 eDrive35 aligns exceptionally well with desired attributes in a daily driver. Personal preferences always play a role, and individual experiences may vary. Despite any minor areas for potential improvement, initial ownership of the BMW i4 eDrive35 has been genuinely satisfying.
Story by CB, a member of the r/cars Reddit.
