BMW’s 2025 electric lineup features two midsize sedans—the range‑focused i5 and the sport‑tuned i4—each blending luxury with zero‑emission driving. This introduction outlines their core differences and prepares you for a detailed comparison to determine the ideal BMW EV for your needs.
We’ll examine exterior styling, from the i5’s executive proportions to the i4’s fastback silhouette, plus powertrain specs and real‑world range. Charging speeds, cabin tech, safety features, and robust pricing structures are also compared to assess each model’s overall value.
Internal links guide you to full reviews and spec pages for both the i5 and i4. A final Q&A distills key insights so you can quickly identify which electric sedan best matches your driving style and budget.
Design And Aesthetics
The i5 and i4 inherit BMW’s classic proportions, such as long hood, set-back cabin, and short overhangs, yet each sedan introduces bespoke electric-era styling cues that distinguish them in BMW’s EV lineup. Subtle sculpting along the flanks not only enhances visual drama but also manages airflow around the wheels and side mirrors, reflecting BMW’s focus on aerodynamic efficiency and range optimization.
Both models ride on staggered wheel setups—larger wheels out back and narrower up front—to balance grip and ride comfort, a hallmark of BMW’s performance pedigree even in its zero-emission cars.
BMW i5
The 2025 i5 presents a more executive stance, filling the gap between the 5 Series and the flagship i7 with a stretched wheelbase and sedan silhouette. Its closed kidney grille and slender headlights emphasize elegance and aerodynamic efficiency.
BMW i4
By contrast, the i4 wears a sportier Gran Coupe shape, with a fastback roofline and wider track. Depending on trim, you’ll get either single‑ or dual‑motor fascia treatments, M‑style bumpers, and larger wheels for a dynamic presence.
Performance And Powertrain
Both the BMW i5 and i4 deliver instant electric torque and share BMW’s fifth‑generation eDrive architecture, but their focus diverges: the i5 leans toward executive‑class comfort and range, while the i4 emphasizes sporty responsiveness in a Gran Coupe silhouette. The i5 eDrive40 pairs a 335 hp motor with 295 lb‑ft of torque for a smooth 0–60 mph sprint in about 5.1 seconds, with xDrive40 and M60 variants climbing to 389 hp and 593 hp, respectively for sharper acceleration.
Meanwhile, the i4 eDrive40 also offers 335 hp and 317 lb‑ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in roughly 4.9 seconds, and the M50 cranks out up to 536 hp to hit 0–60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Both sedans feature precision steering, multi‑link suspension, and adaptive damping, but the i4’s lower center of gravity and tighter chassis tuning deliver a more engaging drive, whereas the i5’s longer wheelbase adds composed stability at speed.
Motor Configurations
- i5 eDrive40: Rear‑wheel drive single motor; 335 hp, 295 lb‑ft torque; 0–60 mph in ~5.1 sec.
- i5 xDrive40: Dual‑motor AWD; 389 hp; brisk 0–60 mph in ~4.9 sec.
- i5 M60 xDrive: Dual‑motor AWD; 593 hp, 586 lb‑ft torque; rockets 0–60 mph in ~3.7 sec.
- i4 eDrive40: Rear‑wheel drive single motor; 335 hp, 317 lb‑ft torque; 0–60 mph in ~4.9 sec.
- i4 M50: Dual‑motor AWD; 536 hp; dashes 0–60 mph in ~3.7 sec.
Both models use an 84.3 kWh (usable 81.2 kWh) lithium‑ion battery pack with active thermal management and brake‑energy recuperation systems
Driving Dynamics
Both sedans deliver BMW’s hallmark steering precision. Testers note the i5’s lighter nose and composed ride make it “a hoot on winding roads,” though some body roll appears under hard cornering. The i4, especially in eDrive40 form, is praised for “brisk acceleration and nimble handling”—a sweet spot for enthusiasts.
Range And Charging
Both sedans deliver competitive electric ranges: the i5 eDrive40 achieves up to approximately 317 miles per charge, while the performance‑oriented i5 M60 manages around 270 miles. The i4 eDrive40 posts EPA estimates near 301–318 miles, with the dual‑motor i4 M50 rated closer to 245–260 miles, depending on wheel size and driving style.
Charging infrastructure compatibility is nearly identical: both models accept up to 205 kW DC fast‑charging, replenishing roughly 100 miles of range in 10–11 minutes, and up to 11 kW on Level 2 AC for home or public stations.
EPA‑Rated Range
- i5 eDrive40: Approximately 317 miles per charge.
- i5 M60: Around 270 miles, due to higher power draw.
- i4 eDrive40: About 301 miles.
- i4 M50: Roughly 260 miles.
Charging Speeds
Both models accept up to 200 kW DC fast‑charging, replenishing from 10 % to 80 % in about 30 minutes. Home charging on an 11 kW AC Level 2 station adds roughly 30 miles per hour.
Interior And Technology
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Cabin Layout
BMW’s curved display unites a 12.3″ driver screen and a 14.9″ touchscreen, running BMW Operating System 9 for both i5 and i4. Premium materials—open‑pore wood, Nappa leather, and ambient lighting are standard across both.
Infotainment & Connectivity
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, voice assistant, over‑the‑air updates
- My BMW app integration for preconditioning and remote monitoring
- Available Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins premium audio
Safety Features And Ratings
Both sedans come equipped with:
- Forward Collision Warning & Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane Keeping Assist & Blind‑Spot Monitoring
- Cross‑Traffic Alert & Adaptive Cruise Control
Crash‑test ratings are pending full NHTSA and IIHS evaluation, but BMW’s reinforced body structure and extensive airbag suite have earned high marks in international tests.
Pricing And Value Proposition
While the i4 undercuts the i5 by about $10–$ 12k at entry level, the i5 eDrive40’s larger cabin and extra range may justify its premium. Lease incentives and federal tax credits can further narrow the gap.
| Model | Starting MSRP (USD) |
| BMW i5 eDrive40 | $63,300 |
| BMW i5 M60 | $89,900 |
| BMW i4 eDrive35 | $51,600 |
| BMW i4 eDrive40 | $57,800 |
| BMW i4 M50 | $62,800 |
Customer Reviews And Market Reception
Early customer feedback for the 2025 i5 highlights its luxurious cabin and brisk performance, with drivers praising its “fun‑to‑drive” character and rich interior appointments. Meanwhile, the i4 holds a strong 4.4‑star average on Edmunds, lauded for its efficiency, quiet ride, and roomy cargo area despite minor rear‑headroom concerns. Market data show the i4 surged 57% in Q1 2025 U.S. sales to 7,125 units, reflecting growing consumer enthusiasm.
The i5 recorded 1,899 deliveries, down 15.2%, underscoring its more exclusive appeal. Overall, both models enjoy favorable reception, though buyers particularly applaud the i4’s balance of value and performance.
Conclusion
Ultimately, your choice comes down to priorities: the i5 eDrive40’s WLTP‑rated 477–582 km (297–362 mi) of range and spacious, executive‑class cabin justify its $63.3 K starting price, positioning it as the more luxurious option. Conversely, the i4 Gran Coupe delivers up to 536 hp in M50 form, brisk acceleration, and a lower entry cost, all wrapped in a sport‑leaning fastback design underpinned by an 83.9 kWh battery.
Both sedans share BMW’s Curved Display with iDrive 9, over‑the‑air updates, and premium leather or eco‑friendly Veganza trim for a cutting‑edge, luxurious cabin. Identical charging hardware—up to 205 kW DC and 11 kW AC—replenishes 10 %–80 % in about 30 minutes, with BMW’s included Electrify America credits sweetening the deal. Whether you prioritize maximum range and rear‑seat comfort or a sportier drive and value, BMW’s 2025 EV sedans deliver compelling performance and luxury tailored to your style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which model offers the best real‑world range?
The i5 eDrive40 leads with an EPA estimate of about 317 miles, but aggressive driving can narrow that gap in both models.
Are there significant interior differences between the i5 and i4?
Both share the same OS 9 curved display and material quality; the i5, however, has more rear‑seat legroom and a larger trunk.
Do they qualify for federal EV tax credits?
Eligible buyers may receive up to $7,500, subject to final IRS guidance and income thresholds (as of May 21, 2025).
