[Eng] BMW i4 eDrive35 (LCI) review: Why even bother with a Tesla?
Uploaded 3 months ago by Cars of Malaysia
Video Summary
The BMW i4 eDrive 35 M Sport costs RM315,600 in Malaysia. It comes with an extended warranty and service package. Other i4 models such as eDrive 40 and M50, and the recently introduced xDrive 40 are not available for purchase in Malaysia. The i4 is the closest thing to an electric 3 Series outside of China.
The i4 eDrive 35 is the entry-level model, with a smaller battery, less range, and lower power and torque compared to the eDrive 40 and M50. However, the performance is still considered generous. It runs on a rear wheel drive drivetrain.
The car reviewed is a lifecycle impulse (LCI) version, with new bumpers, new wheels, new color options, and a new grille. Adaptive LED headlights are now standard as well as the M Sport suspension.
The tail lights function as positioning lights but are not as bright as others. Laser tail lights are standard for the eDrive 35 M Sport.
The interior is conventional, with lots of physical buttons on the dashboard.
The interior feels more human-centric, with ambient lighting in amber color, easier on the eyes, and has frameless doors.
The steering wheel has a good girth, and is super easy to grip. The seats are comfortable and quite huge, with the driver's seat having a memory function. Seat ventilation is not available.
The car comes with Performtex upholstery, which is said to be environmentally friendly.
The rear door doesn't open very wide, so getting a child seat inside can be hard. There are no pockets behind the front seat and limited leg room in the back.
The rear seat gets an armrest with cup holders.
The operating system has been updated to BMW OS 8.5. The i4 is a decent looking car overall.
Real world range tests showed the car can travel 326km from 99%-8% and 309km from 100%-3%.
Maximum DC charging rate is 180kW. AC charging reaches a maximum of 11kW with a three-phase supply.
The car does not detect traffic trying to merge on to your lane. The lane departure system is better.
The car is pleasant and fun to drive. Even with 286 hp/400 Nm, the car delivers a jolt of power when you need it. Suspension is comfortable. Wind noise is present at high speeds.
This single-motor EV provides decent handling; is pleasant to drive, however, is a heavier vehicle.