BMW i4: A Sporty Electric Sedan That Redefines Driving Pleasure

The electric vehicle (EV) market in India has rapidly evolved over the past few years, with several premium carmakers launching cutting-edge models to cater to the environmentally-conscious yet performance-hungry consumer. Among them, the BMW i4 stands out as a refined, luxurious, and sporty electric sedan that delivers on multiple fronts. With a starting price of ₹72.50 lakh (ex-showroom), the BMW i4 offers a compelling mix of driving dynamics, range, and the premium feel expected from the German automaker.

Overview of the BMW i4

The BMW i4 was launched in India as part of the brand’s vision to go electric while preserving its iconic driving DNA. This electric Gran Coupé combines the practicality of a four-door sedan with the sleek aesthetics of a sports coupe. Although it was introduced a while ago, the i4 remains highly relevant in 2025 due to its class-leading features, premium build, and the growing popularity of EVs in the luxury segment.

Key specs include:

• Price: ₹72.50 lakh (ex-showroom India)

• Range: 483 to 590 kilometers (WLTP standard)

• Battery Capacity: 83.9 kWh lithium-ion

• Charging Options: Fast charging up to 205 kW (10–80% in ~31 minutes)

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the BMW i4 an exceptional choice for Indian EV buyers looking for a performance-oriented luxury sedan.

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Design and Aesthetics

The BMW i4 retains the classic design language that enthusiasts love—clean lines, a long bonnet, a coupe-like roofline, and bold kidney grilles (which are sealed since there's no engine to cool). Despite being an electric car, the i4 looks every bit like a traditional BMW sedan, making it ideal for those transitioning from internal combustion without wanting something too futuristic or radically different.

The front end is dominated by the signature kidney grille, flanked by sleek adaptive LED headlights. Aerodynamic sculpting along the sides enhances its performance and efficiency, while the rear features slim, sporty tail lamps and an integrated diffuser for that aggressive yet sophisticated vibe.

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Luxurious Interior

Step inside the i4 and you're greeted by an elegant, high-tech cabin designed to impress. The curved display is the centerpiece—combining a 12.3-inch instrument cluster with a massive 14.9-inch infotainment screen into one fluid digital panel powered by BMW's latest iDrive 8 system.

The quality of materials used is outstanding. Premium leather upholstery, soft-touch plastics, ambient lighting, and attention to detail give the i4 a cabin that feels rich and indulgent. It’s also practical—despite its coupe-like design, the rear seats are fairly spacious for a car in this category, and the 470-litre boot is generous enough for luggage, making it suitable for weekend getaways.

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Performance and Driving Dynamics

BMW has always been known for “The Ultimate Driving Machine,” and the i4 continues that legacy—only now, it's electric.

The variant available in India is the BMW i4 eDrive40, which comes with a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle. This setup produces 340 hp and 430 Nm of torque, allowing the i4 to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. Power delivery is instantaneous, smooth, and exhilarating—thanks to the nature of electric propulsion.

What really sets the i4 apart is its handling. The placement of the battery low in the chassis improves the car’s center of gravity, giving it remarkable stability and agility around corners. Paired with adaptive suspension and finely tuned steering, the i4 offers an engaging driving experience whether you're cruising on highways or navigating city traffic.

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Battery and Range

At the heart of the BMW i4 is an 83.9 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery, which offers a range between 483 to 590 km (WLTP), depending on driving conditions, wheel size, and usage.

This kind of range makes the i4 one of the longest-range electric sedans available in India today, eliminating most range anxiety concerns. Whether it’s your daily commute in Delhi NCR or a weekend road trip to Jaipur or Shimla, the i4 will have you covered without constant stops for charging.

When it’s time to plug in, the i4 supports:

• AC charging (11 kW): Full charge in around 8.5 hours

• DC fast charging (up to 205 kW): 10% to 80% in just about 31 minutes

BMW India also provides complimentary wall-box installation at home or office, ensuring convenience from day one.

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Tech and Features

The BMW i4 is loaded with modern features, including:

• BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8

• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

• Harman Kardon surround sound system

• 3-zone automatic climate control

• Panoramic sunroof

• Parking assist with reversing camera

• Adaptive LED headlamps

• Gesture control and voice command integration

For safety, it comes with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, dynamic stability control, cornering brake control, and a rigid passenger cell with strategically placed crumple zones.

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Sustainability

BMW is serious about sustainability—not just in the car, but in how it’s made. The i4’s production process involves renewable energy sources, and the battery pack is designed with recyclability in mind. Even the leather upholstery is tanned using olive leaf extracts, and interior components include recycled plastics.

For eco-conscious luxury car buyers, the i4 is not just a car, but a statement of responsibility and refinement.

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BMW i4 vs Rivals

In the Indian market, the BMW i4 competes with the following electric sedans:

While the Mercedes EQE offers more luxury and quicker acceleration, it comes at a significantly higher price. The Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are good alternatives but don’t match the i4’s blend of brand prestige, interior refinement, and handling finesse.

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Verdict: Who Should Buy the BMW i4?

If you're a luxury car buyer transitioning to electric mobility and want a true driver’s car, the BMW i4 makes an incredibly strong case. It’s ideal for:

• Executives who want a daily driver with performance and sophistication

• Tech-savvy urbanites with a flair for premium brands

• EV enthusiasts looking for a sporty, long-range option with luxury pedigree

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Final Thoughts

The BMW i4 isn’t just another electric vehicle—it’s an embodiment of the future of performance and luxury driving. With its powerful motor, impressive range, premium cabin, and sleek design, the i4 brings together the best of what BMW stands for—now in electric form.

At ₹72.50 lakh, it’s not cheap—but it offers a unique combination of thrill, efficiency, and class that’s hard to beat in today’s EV market.