2024 BMW i4 M50 Performance Review: Is It the Ultimate Electric Sedan?

The automotive world is transitioning towards electrification, and the 2024 BMW i4 M50 marks an exciting evolution in this journey. As a flagship electric sedan from BMW’s M division, the i4 M50 offers a powerful mix of high performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. But is it the electric sedan enthusiasts have been waiting for?

This article will provide an in-depth look at the 2024 BMW i4 M50, its performance, design, technology, and what makes it a serious contender in the electric vehicle (EV) market.

Key Features

  • Powerful dual-motor setup delivering 536 horsepower
  • Acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds
  • Luxurious interior with curved infotainment display and premium materials
  • Impressive range of up to 510 km on a single charge
  • Efficient charging with support for AC and DC fast charging
  • Excellent handling, borrowing from BMW’s 3 Series platform
  • Generous cargo space and passenger comfort for practical use

Exterior Design: A Blend of Athleticism and Sophistication

The 2024 BMW i4 M50 showcases a modern take on the brand’s iconic design cues. The kidney-shaped grille, now framed by a striking blue outline, hints at its electric powertrain. This subtle tweak distinguishes it from its combustion engine siblings while retaining BMW’s recognizable identity.

The aerodynamic bodylines and 19-inch alloy wheels ensure it looks as fast as it drives. Standout elements like flush door handles contribute to its sleek, futuristic appeal. At the rear, the sculpted taillights and sporty diffuser emphasize its high-performance roots, while the absence of exhaust tips reminds you that this is no ordinary sedan—this is pure electric power.

2024 BMW i4 M50 Interior: Where Luxury Meets Advanced Technology

Slides inside, it offers a cabin that perfectly fuses high-end materials with top-notch technology. High-quality brown leather upholstery stitched to the stitched and textured plastic trims give things a decent amount of premium feel, while the carbon fiber-like trim brings in more sporty elements.

Headlining the lineup is the arcing infotainment display running BMW’s OS 8. This integrates exceptionally well with the digital instrument cluster, serving up a user experience similar to that found with modern smartphones. Be it navigation or climate control, one can access everything via the touchscreen or through the rotary knob on the center console.

Indeed, regarding practicality, the 2024 BMW i4 M50 is quite satisfactory with adequate cargo space-470 liters-only slightly less than that of its sibling, the internal combustion 3 Series. The passengers in the rear won’t be shortchanged either because there’s plenty of headroom and legroom for comfort, thus making the car equally suited for families or for frequent travelers.

Performance: Electrifying Power with BMW Precision

At the heart of the 2024 BMW i4 M50 is its dual-motor setup—one motor powers each axle—delivering a whopping 536 horsepower and 795 Nm of torque. This setup enables the car to rocket from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, rivaling BMW’s traditional M3 and M4 models.

But speed isn’t the only star here. The i4 M50 benefits from BMW’s decades-long expertise in building finely tuned performance cars. Thanks to the 3 Series platform, the car offers exceptional handling with responsive steering and well-balanced body control, making it just as fun on twisty roads as it is on straight highways.

A unique feature of the i4 M50 is its artificial sound, designed by famed composer Hans Zimmer, which adds a touch of drama to the acceleration experience. Whether or not you enjoy it is subjective, but it undoubtedly enhances the car’s performance-focused persona.

Range and Efficiency: Addressing Range Anxiety

For those concerned about range, the 2024 BMW i4 M50 comes equipped with an 81 kWh battery, which offers an impressive 510 kilometers of driving range (WLTP). This allows for longer road trips without frequent stops to charge, an essential consideration for EV buyers.

During spirited drives, the car’s efficiency holds up well, with regenerative braking settings that allow you to recoup energy and extend your driving range even further. This makes it a capable everyday driver while still delivering that adrenaline rush when you want it.

Additionally, the i4 M50 supports both AC and DC fast charging, allowing for more flexibility. Whether you’re at home or on the go, topping up the battery is simple and convenient.

Performance Comparison For The 2024 BMW i4 M50 Versus Its Competitors

Electric Sedan Horsepower (HP) 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) Acceleration Range (km) Charging Time (DC Fast Charge)
BMW i4 M50 536 HP 3.9 seconds 510 km 31 minutes (10-80%)
Tesla Model S 670 HP 3.1 seconds 652 km 30 minutes (10-80%)
Audi e-Tron GT 469 HP 4.1 seconds 488 km 22.5 minutes (5-80%)
Polestar 2 408 HP 4.7 seconds 470 km 40 minutes (10-80%)

Driving Experience: Comfort Meets Thrill

Despite its nearly 2.3-ton weight, the BMW i4 M50 feels agile and responsive. Its instantaneous torque gives it a thrilling launch, and the handling feels incredibly sharp. BMW engineers have worked hard to balance performance with everyday usability.

The adaptive suspension and high-quality interior sound insulation offer a refined, quiet ride during regular driving, while the car can still be pushed to its limits when the occasion calls for it. It’s a dual personality of a vehicle—comfortable and composed for commuting but wild and exhilarating when the road opens up.

FAQs About the 2024 BMW i4 M50

  1. What is the range of the BMW i4 M50?
    • The i4 M50 offers an estimated range of up to 510 kilometers on a full charge.
  2. How fast can the i4 M50 accelerate?
    • The car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, matching the performance of traditional BMW M models.
  3. Does the i4 M50 support fast charging?
    • Yes, the i4 M50 is compatible with AC and DC fast charging, making it convenient to recharge on the go.
  4. What is the battery size of the i4 M50?
    • The car comes with an 81 kWh battery pack.
  5. Is the i4 M50 suitable for daily driving?
    • Yes, with its blend of comfort, range, and spacious interior, it is well-suited for both daily commutes and longer road trips.
  6. Does the i4 M50 come with BMW’s signature driving dynamics?
    • Absolutely. Despite its electric powertrain, the i4 M50 retains BMW’s renowned handling and performance characteristics.

With its cutting-edge technology, exhilarating performance, and practical features, the 2024 BMW i4 M50 is shaping up to be a leader in the electric sedan segment. Whether you’re a performance enthusiast or just looking to transition to an electric vehicle, the i4 M50 offers the best of both worlds.

Verdict: Is It the Ultimate Electric Performance Sedan?

The 2024 BMW i4 M50 successfully merges high-performance motoring with the advantages of electric propulsion. Its powerful dual-motor setup, stunning design, and a well-appointed interior make it a compelling choice for those seeking a performance-oriented EV without sacrificing comfort or luxury.

While the power might be more than some drivers need, the i4 M50 offers a driving experience that will thrill both BMW enthusiasts and EV newcomers. With its impressive range, charging options, and practical design, it stands out as a top contender in the growing electric sedan market.

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