“Be aware of that BMW recommends an 80% battery charge - which equates to only 200 miles of distance in 'comfort' mode. Less than ideal.”
BMW i4: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 13, 2026
The BMW i4 is an all-electric luxury compact car with four doors, a coupe-like roofline, and a liftback cargo opening. It is known for combining familiar BMW driving manners with quick acceleration, an upscale cabin, and everyday practicality.
The i4 has blended electric power with the familiar feel and shape of a BMW sport sedan since its 2022 debut. Its low, sleek profile gives it a less SUV-like character than many electric alternatives, while the liftback makes the cargo area easier to use. Through efficiency updates, new all-wheel-drive versions, and stronger performance models, the focus has remained on balancing driving enjoyment with daily comfort.
Strengths
- It feels more like a familiar BMW sport sedan than a tall, SUV-shaped electric vehicle.
- Acceleration is quick across the model’s history, with the performance versions placing an even stronger emphasis on speed.
- The liftback opening makes the cargo area easy to access, and the 2026 model provides 16.6 cubic feet of space.
- The 2026 lineup is rated for 278 to 333 miles of electric range, depending on the version and configuration.
- The cabin pairs an upscale presentation with a large curved digital dashboard and a modern touchscreen system.
Who it's for
The i4 fits someone who wants an electric daily driver with premium comfort but does not want an SUV. It makes particular sense for commuters and small households that value sharp road manners, quick power, and a useful hatchback-style cargo opening.
BMW i4 lineup
Pick the rear-wheel-drive eDrive40 if efficiency and driving range matter more than having all-wheel drive. The xDrive40, added for 2024, is the middle ground for shoppers who want the extra traction and stronger response of two electric motors without moving to the top performance model. The M50 served as the performance-focused i4 from launch, while the more powerful M60 took over that role for 2026. A lower-powered eDrive35 also served as the entry model in earlier years.
BMW i4 generations
From 2022 to 2026, the i4 spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation — G26 arrived for 2022.
1st Generation — G26 (2022–2026)
The first i4 is a fully electric four-door liftback with a large rear cargo opening. It launched with rear-wheel-drive and high-performance AWD versions, then received updated exterior details, cabin controls, and touchscreen software for 2025.
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2026Trim changes
The M50 is replaced by the more powerful M60. The eDrive40 also gets efficiency-focused electrical hardware that increases its estimated range.
2025Mid-cycle update
Refreshed front styling and lights join revised interior details and an updated touchscreen system.
2024Trim changes
The xDrive40 trim joins the lineup with dual-motor AWD. Ambient cabin lighting also becomes standard across the range.
2023Trim changes
The rear-wheel-drive eDrive35 trim joins the lineup with a smaller battery and less power than the eDrive40.
2022New generation
The all-new i4 launches in the U.S. as an electric four-door liftback, led by the rear-wheel-drive eDrive40 and dual-motor AWD M50.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the BMW i4.
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW i4 fully electric?
Yes. The BMW i4 is a battery-electric car, not a hybrid, and it has no gasoline engine. Every version uses one or two electric motors.
Is the BMW i4 a sedan, coupe, or hatchback?
It blends all three ideas. BMW calls it a four-door Gran Coupe, so it has a low, coupe-like shape but uses a large liftback opening instead of a conventional sedan trunk.
Does the BMW i4 come with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
Both are found in the lineup. The eDrive versions use one rear motor and rear-wheel drive, while xDrive and M performance versions use two motors and all-wheel drive. Exact trim availability depends on model year.
What is the BMW i4 known for?
The i4 is known for combining quick electric response and sporty BMW road manners with an upscale cabin and useful liftback cargo access. Its low shape also feels more like a familiar sport sedan than an electric SUV.
Is the BMW i4 practical enough for daily use?
Yes, for shoppers whose space needs fit a low four-door car. It seats five, has a power liftback, and offers 16.6 cubic feet of cargo room in the latest lineup. The rear seat also folds in sections on documented eDrive40 models.
Which kind of driver is the BMW i4 a good fit for?
It suits someone who wants an EV with a premium cabin, quick acceleration, and sedan-like handling rather than an SUV shape. The liftback also makes it more useful for everyday cargo than its sleek profile suggests.
How many generations of the BMW i4 are there?
There is one generation so far. It arrived for 2022, received a styling and cabin refresh for 2025, and remained on the same basic generation for 2026.
BMW i4 Reviews
What owners are saying about the BMW i4.
4.4
BMW i4
(2,105 reviews)
“Go for it! Electric is awesome and super convenient. I chose BMW for the safety technology and responsiveness, handling on the road, reliability, and 24/7 roadside assistance.”
“Wireless charging pad gets phone very hot, should be better optimized. Also the bay for it is rather small.”
“My wife had a nightmare that this car was stolen. That's a sign of how much she loves it.”
“Do it! It has all the bells and whistles plus it is great to save on gas. Once you get used to charging vs. pumping gas, it is a life changer!”
“If you want an efficient EV with a decent range and great driving experience, look no further than a BMW i4 edrive 40!”