This was honestly perfect review of the car, literally what a normal day-to-day job person would look for in premium range. M version is nice and fancy but just as in petrol version, range is main component. Definitely would go for eDrive 40 and especially the same classy white with blue highlights -unbeatable beauty. Once again, thank you so much for showing us around. Appreciate this video.
Test drove one on the weekend and placed my order today (Mineral white - M Sport Pro Pack). Spot on review. I found the 0-60 pleasing, but acceleration for overtaking was phenomenal. Totally agree with the ride. Very smooth, even in sort mode with things stiffened up a bit. Thanks for the vid!
I ordered the i4 as soon as my test drive was over, absolute fun to drive highely recommend anyone to test drive it. Shame I'll have to wait until late 2022 to receive mine.
Cracking review. Drove it the day after you and I think the best comment I can make is that it’s a really good, proper BMW that just happens to be electric. It doesn’t define the car, but it’s sodding good at the EV stuff. Great vid as always Tim 👍
Not a fan of the grilles still but I agree that my favourite thing about this car is that it doesn’t scream “EV” when you look at it since it’s built on the 4 series gran coupe chassis
Agree on the power being plenty for daily driving, especially since I’ve been told from my local dealership that the 0-60 time quoted by BMW is higher than real life performance, meaning the 0-60 time is actually quicker than quoted by BMW. I’ll take the extra range and extra cost savings, I’m sure in the future we’ll see a next gen version of this car that gives you the best of both worlds, more range and performance.
Great review, happy to have come across this channel. Video length was perfect, gave highs/lows on all the important details, and nice touches of levity.
I know you say you don’t need the m50 and in all 90% of us you are right. But I think I’d need the x drive is a must with a bmw. In wet and icy especially on country roads you need the 4 wheel drive. Very good review. I never had a bmw car until they put x drive on their cars. Now I’d have nothings else.
I like the Extra grip the xdrive allows ,ive had plenty of 3 series Bmws ,and it would Inly be the m50 for me ,sacrificing a bit of feel for surefooted ness
Tim, as you know, there is no lack of test drive etc videos on TH-cam. But I really enjoy the information you bring, your style, and definitely your sense of humor. I just subscribed. Cheers, Cliff
Tim when I'm not looking at you, you sound just like Prince William. You have a lovely speaking voice. I've ordered my i4 in the dark green and cognac leather interior.
Wow, thanks Christina! Weirdly in a previous life I was paid to hit Prince William's more ginger brother in an army exercise. Slightly surreal… but that sounds like a killer i4 spec and exactly how I specced mine on the configurator. That green is something else
Thanks for review, I have this car in blue with sports pack arriving in March and you've now made me very excited and sure I've made the right choice!!! 😀
Thanks for the great review! Finally someone pays attention to the non-M50 ;) I ordered the edrive40 M-sport in Brooklyn Grey with Tacora Red interior back in november (probably won't get it before 2023 though)
Thanks Ben! I've already paid attention to the M50… but I think I'd go for the eDrive40 if it was my own money. Wait times are an absolute biatch at the moment
Great review. Seriously considering ordering one. The company is making us go electric and I don’t want an SUV. Soo my choice is basically limited to the tesla model 3, polestar 2 and BMW i4. I really don’t like tesla, the polestar 2 drives great (in dual motor version), but the range is to limited. The i4 seems like a great option, but waiting for test vehicles (in 40e trim) to be available. The M50 seems nice, but in my budget I’d rather have some options and I get the feeling the 40e is plentiful.
@@MrSnicol That will be the main challenge. I tend to do 3 1000km trips a year and and 4 shorter ones (500 to 800 km), sot that is a price I have to pay. I calculate 2 extra hours on a single trip for the ski holidays. On the other hand, withe the current fiscal system in my country and my company policy I can go for either a basic diesel Mercedes CLA 180d, BMW X1 16d or something similar, or a nicely equipped i4 edrive40. And the i4 will cost me less company car tax. So in my case, would you go for a 115hp diesel or just go electric.
I feel so much better after watching your video! I ordered an i4 40 Msport, but almost ordered the M50. Now I know I made the right decision. Thank you!
The BMW is pretty amazing. Very quiet, very refined, nice interior. I don't care if it is not a dedicated EV platform and I don't have much use for the supercharger network. I drove a tesla 3 performance yesterday. Good technology, abysmal car. Crap ride in town and on motorway, very noisy, cheap flimsy interior, cheap suspension. Seats uncomfortable. It takes a lot to make a car, otherwise you end up with an electric appliance.
Good review that. I'm shopping for a replacement for my Honda e as it runs out. I know that the two cars don't seem comparable, but essentially the common element is "nice to drive, look at and sit in" and I just need some more space now as the kids are getting better. Sympathies on the wrist - I suffered a broken rib from a toddler leaping onto me when I was laying down! When they're older they break their own wrists instead...
Great video and an interesting comparison to your i4 M50 video earlier in the year. The e drive and M50 are on the shortlist to replace a B9 S4 next year. Only other car that's appealing at the minute is the etron GT. Where would you place the e drive and M40 in comparison to the Audi? Have driven the GT, hoping to drive an i4 early in the New Year before taking the plunge... Looks a compelling car. Keep up the great work!
Hi Tim, brilliant cool fantastic review. Just as you say real world range is 300 miles! No issues, no problem. Handling is absolutely superb! 0-60 who cares? It’s fast enough! But 50-70+ off the bloody scale.. certainly on the motorway if somebody is tail gaiting behind! I’ve actually bought this exact car! Ex Bmw press car! YC71AWH but now changed to personal plate! Got all the bells and whistle’s loving it everyday. This is coming from a 6 cylinder diesel 330d xdrive g21 touring fan.. no regrets electric i4 40 is brilliant!! 😊✅ Many thanks loving your reviews 👍
Thank you! Been waiting for the 40 review! First one I’ve seen on TH-cam. I am trying to decide between this or the Polestar 2 dual motor performance. Any thoughts comparing the two?
I have a Polestar 2 (Launch Edition so Dual Motor with Pilot & Plus packs), have been driving it for 13 months now and it's very good. I really like the i4 but would go for the M50 version due to improved performance, styling, standard colour choice and leather interior. The BMW will be higher quality over the Polestar 2, but loses out on specification and interior room. I would miss the pano roof, adaptive cruise and heated steering wheel on the BMW. Buying now I would probably get the BMW, but it would cost more money.
I love the Polestar. Buuuut the Polestar doesn’t seem to deliver the range it promises. Nor does the BMW, but it’ll go a lot further and is more fun to drive. Polestar is still bloody brilliant
You guys are making it harder 😂. I’ll have to wait for a i4 to land here in Australia before deciding. I have test driven the Polestar but I’ve had some 20 odd BMWs since my early twenties with the last one being M2C 4 months ago (replaced by a Model 3). I’m keeping the Tesla and going all EV hence looking for a second one for the family fleet. I have a feeling I will like the BMW because it’s what I’m used to!
@@TimRodieDrivesStuff : WLTP range isn’t a promise. It’s a lab test to compare range against other cars. The BMW goes further because it has a larger battery - 5 kWh more usable capacity, which in part is reflected in the higher purchase price.
Thanks for the review. I’d be keen to know what range it can really achieve. The iX3 achieved 91% of its WLTP on a range test by Carwow and if this did the same then it’s very good indeed.
First review I’ve seen of the ’base’ model 👍 this is what I would choose, it has plenty already and more range. Only thing i’m not too sure about is the enormous weight, it’s about 400kg more than a Model 3. I guess it’s because it’s based on the ICE platform but I didn’t expect the difference to be that big. It’s nice that Bmw lets you spec the car without the ’electric’ blue bits, without them it’s like any other Bmw and it’s a good thing. 👍
Better isolation cost a lot of weight but yeah not having a dedicated platform hurts as well. BMW could probably do better if they didn't cheap out by using the 4 series platform. It's actually impressive to have identical range as the Model 3 while not even fully committing to the EV architecture.
Not sure where you got that information from but it's wrong. This car here weighs 2125kg (EU) which is 195kg more than the Model 3s 1930kg (EU) with both having an 80kWh battery.
@@MadDaCube I got that from bmw blog site which claimed 500kg difference but after doing some searching, I think they didn’t have the correct numbers. Another site, ev database states that the Model 3 standard version is 1850 kg and the i40 edrive40 is 2125 kg, so 275kg difference. That sounds more reasonable. It’s still significant but for an ICE based platform it’s expected. Batteries are just so heavy that there’s not much they can do. Tesla saves a bit of weight on using new manufacturing methods such as mega castings and the ev-only platform explains a lot. Maybe BMW can reduce weight when they launch the Neue Klasse platform in few years but we have to wait and see.
But for those that have 4 seasons, the AWD is a bit more of peace of mind. Not to mention the i4 you tested had some upgrades putting in even closer to the m50 price tag.
TBH, as long as you have snow tires RWD handles pretty much on par with AWD on regular roads. I live in Alaska and drive 2 RWD vehicles. Unless you're constantly doing off-road travels, RWD is fine.
If you want one get the order in quickly. I ordered my M-Sport with the tech and pro pack back in August. Delivery was supposed to be in the beginning of March 2022 but now I’m being told it will be the end of April. Also you get less range with the msport model on 19 inch rims. It’s around 345 miles but still way better than the M50.
Did the same today and is estimated in April or May. What's the pro pack? There's the premium pack here in the U.S. for an additional $950. Will be the final price of $67,000 and hopefully some type of incentive (AKA discount) for waiting.
@@jmiyagisan it’s called the MSport Pro Pack in the UK. Seven options in one pack which includes adaptive dampers, blue or red brake calipers and other cosmetic options such as MSport seatbelts and sun protection glass. You can get around six option packs in the UK. I ordered the tech pack just for the wireless phone charging as you couldn’t spec it separately. In an uncharacteristic move for BMW the IX3 has most of the option packs as standard!
I haven't used the new iDrive yet but why did they have to move the climate controls to the screen?! I'm sure it's fine, but the last gen was absolutely perfect with regular climate controls and a big screen.
Nice review. Considering ordering one, but we can’t test the i4 40e yet here. The M50 is above my budget and I think the 40e should be sufficient. Currently delivery time is once a year.
now BMW need to do a 2 series variant with this exact spec and release next yr when production costs should b lower, nearer £30k :) - Might stand a slight chance against forthcoming Chinese EVs then...
absolutely - could do with a practical EV estate. The Taychan is more practical as an estate than the standard car, but still not exactly practical ...
I kind of wished for something in between here - being in Canada where it snows often, I would like to have xDrive, but don't need the full blown M50 package. So can BMW make a...say, i4 xDrive45e that has AWD or something like that?
Thanks for the nice video … they only statement i missed was something about the energy consumption of the car .. I ordered one, since this was the only useful car to tow my tiny caravan ..
The M50 is not constant AWD and the front motor engages for traction and acceleration but is otherwise off when you're cruising for longer range. Thus that front motor is dead weight in conditions where you're stretching for range. This is why the E40 is the better option if your goal is luxurious practicality rather than sporty performance. Unless you plan to use those extra 200 horses up front often, the M50 is quite a heavy beast to take on a long road trip.
I'm curious to know what options your test car had on it, because it appears to me that based on the different front end, that it has the M Sport pack; which, besides adding some visual differences to the car, also includes the air suspension (they come as part of one package in the US, but can be ordered separately in other parts of the world, I believe). That might explain why the ride felt the same as the M50. I've driven the 40eDrive without the M Sport pack (no air suspension in the rear), and could certainly tell a difference in the way it drove. It was still really smooth, but definitely felt different. And I don't think there were different drive modes for the suspension in that guise (you could still adjust steering and transmission, though). The maximum quoted range on the 40 is when it rides on 18-inch wheels, and your tester clearly has the 19s, which drops the range. And, my guess, is that the car is set up for the American (EPA) test cycle, because the 40eDrive with 19-inch wheels has a range (again, based on the US standard) of 282 miles. I would assume that a car sold directly to the UK (not a journalist tester, flown around the world) would probably reflect estimates based on the UK standard. But that is all speculation on my part.
I'd rather have this over the M50 , that weight in the front from the extra motor can't be good for driving dynamics , or range... plus 350ish HP is plenty enough on most roads.
Have driven the M50 that is available for a test-drive now and noticed it was quicker than quoted. Really great video of an actual M40 that a lot of people look forward to! Many thanks for the 'daily-drive' comparison of the electric i4 :)
I would buy this thing, but no driving assistance pro package available? Pass. I currently have things like radar cruise and traffic jam assist and won’t go without now.
Good to see a review of the Everyman version (sic). I found the P2 too firm and nausea inducing so looking for a more comfortable option . Test drive me thinks.
Thanks Craig - really hope you enjoy it! I was meant to be running one for 6 months for DriveTribe but sort of got made redundant. I'll live vicariously through you!
Der bajuwarisch Weißwurstwagen watscht weniger wichtige Wichtigtuerwagen. Thanks for your review! Hope I get the opportunity to drive it myself soon! Happy Wurstfest and long live BMW!
Seriously considering order one to replace my F10 535 but my wife wants SUV…. Worth go for m50 vs eDrive40 with justifiable cost on HK, 544HP, 19” Rims and perf tyres, M brakes… etc. Look forward iDrive8 with curved displays in other models can choose especially next iX3 SUV!
I have the blue exterior accents on the iX3 I ordered. Not by choice, it was the last car with beige interior in the country🤪 happy to update if and when I wrap’em
Thanks for the video. Personally, I have ordered the m50 version just to get the four-wheel drive. Where I live there are snow 100+ days a year so even if I don’t need the extra power four wheel drive is pretty much mandatory. Sad that this model is only available in rear-wheel drive!
Can’t thank you enough for putting the slap to traffic light Grand Prix 0-60 times in these electric car reviews. I’ve worked and saved long enough to buy one of these only by staying alive and not driving like that.
I have a Tesla Model 3 Performance -21 and I really like the car except for the build quality issues and cheap materials. I´m rather OCD when it comes to rattles and squeeks etc and the Tesla is FULL of them. I have sorted out about 5 rattles etc but there are more there. Also now we have a hight pitch noise coming from the engine when you are cruising. Tesla is going to measure it and if it´s "within spec" (yes they use that term) they are not going to fix it. So I´m considering moving to BMW i4 instead but it will be more expensive with equipment. When you drove it, did you hear any sounds that weren´t suppose to be there? Rattles, squeeks and so on?
The crash pads for the high-voltage battery may not have been assembled. This can cause damage to the high-voltage battery in the event of a serious side crash and may cause a short-circuit increasing the risk of a fire. The BMW i4 vehicles affected by this recall were manufactured between 15 September and 30 November 2021. BMW recall code: 61430600 Affected models: i4.
Can you turn the dsc off? Can it do donuts? Does it have lsd or some electronic ghizmo to help with traction? Most important questions for real bmw entusiasts...
I think that you didn’t notice the difference in suspension because you have the adaptive M-suspension on this eDrive 40 model, which is basically the same as in the M50?
Looks very similar to bmw 4 gran tourer? In fact, maybe they just took the engine out and replaced it with batteries? It still has the the drive tunnel running through it, who are they kidding. They should have taken the i3 extended it by 600mm and increased the battery size to 75kw. Best BMW ever (i3), just my opinion.
@@TimRodieDrivesStuff I am glad as well, since I ordered this version. Thanks for the great review, one of the first to finally check out the edrive40:)
M50 > e40. Range is whatever for me cause I probably drive 15-35 miles a day. The thing that I need is xdrive seeing as I live in Wisconsin and we get a substantial amount of snow. Since it's only rwd that's a killer for me. I also have a 240i and going from that to the e40 is a big drop in performance. I know performance isn't everything but everytime I drive I definitely like to give it some gas(not full throttle). Also the m50 is incredibly practical compared to my 240i so it's the better option for me.
I'm curious how tall you are? You seem quite tall and the backseat would perhaps not feel so tight for a shorter adult. As a short person (5'2") I find many vehicles, especially American ones, are barely able to get close enough for a comfortable ride for me. This one, like my previous bmw and my mercedes slk, are comfortable for me. The only more comfortable ride I've ever had as a driver is my c4 corvette, which perfectly fits a smaller frame.
Sorry Planet Earth but I've got a 420d Gran Coupe on the way because: 1. The same spec on the i4 40 is £13,600 more than I'm paying for the oil burner ... some things standard on the ICE variants are extras on the EV e.g. leather seats 2. I could actually order the car and get one delivered with my spec in a reasonable timeframe. Signed the order in mid November and it's already built and on it's way with no deletions except passenger lumbar. 3. It's got a theoretical range of about 750 miles on a full tank ... I watch the EV queues at service stations get bigger and bigger (opportunity for a TH-cam channel specialising in fights over charging points?) I'm truly jealous of anyone that can afford to pay the extra and isn't afraid to wait, both for delivery and at the charging stations but for me it's still not viable yet. Fingers crossed and in another 4 years I'll be trading in for an EV.
I'm seriously tempted to order a M240i...I would go EV but the charging infrastructure where I live is nowhere near good enough. I shall have to wait before making the switch, and potentially move to a better served part of the UK.
Hate to say it - but had you factored in depreciation? In four years a BMW i4 will be worth ... well, a fair chunk of what you paid for it. And you'll have trouble giving away the 420d, except to a government scrappage scheme.
@@gothmog2441 if he finances it he can simply hand it back to BMW just like under any PCP deal. Then get another new car. Maybe he doesn’t care about depreciation. Not everyone does.
I wish motor journalists would highlight that point… German EVs seem to be compliance cars, they could better and MUCH cheaper if they’d actually make the transition to electric more whole hearted!
My experience of BMW i4 was understeer and heavy in the bends. 40 or 50 made little difference. The car just wasnt as dynamic as a Tesla 3P. Sorry. Ofherwise it was built superb and the idrive was excellent. On the way to buy it id veer off and buy a Tesla 3P though because i like to be able to charge without hassle in UK. Good car, average EV.
Tim..Great video..have a company car scheme and am in a dilemma between the 330 e vs i4 m50 vs i4 e40...all costing me similar monthly. I have a daily commute round trip 60 miles. Any advice?
@@TimRodieDrivesStuff easiest sub ever, after watching this video you made up my mind and I went and put my deposit down for the e40, hopefully Canada gets out models by summer!
We all stuck in an interesting place. I drive an Arteon 240 Diesel HP... Great car 4 wheel drive, comfortabel, a little on the soft side, a cruiser no sports car but look pretty ok. I enjoy driving it. Testdrived model 3 summer 2019 and didn´t like it. Just went on a ride with my friend who has the top model of model 3 and yeah it has crazy acceleration. He talked about it and he talked about Kilowatt/electricity and charging etc. Seriously it felt like a toy car and apart from the acceleration it wasn't much I liked. I like Polestar but batteris are said to be not as good as Teslas. So keep driving the car I like and pay crazy for Diesel or invest in electric for more than double the price I get back or my Arteon. Boring choices here to be honest:)... And I just got a charger installed for my parking in the apartment complex. I live in the city... So should I skip my Arteon and go Hyundai Ionic5. I mean things doesnt really make sense. i really like this i€ except from it being small for my young adult kids in the backseat. Even I enjoy riding in the backseat of the Arteon but this i4 doen's offer much comfort back there. It is though a very nice looking car. Damn it is fine....
Thx 4 the review, what u think of a Tesla Model 3 in comparison especially when even the performance is way cheaper then the i40 and yes I am a BMW lover from Germany but not rich :-))
great review. I'm living in Quebec/Canada. Wondering how RWD would be in winter months. M50 would be better with AWD. If I choose M50 will be denied 8000$ subvention from governement. Currently driving audi quattro A7 2014. Please let me know your toughts on that RWD I4 40 vs AWD m50 in winter conditions
If you lock brakes on a turn, 4wd or 2wd, doesn't make a difference, you will hit the wall. But with traction control these days, its minimal difference.
I live and ski in the mountains, and AWD is needed if you drive on steep slopes. My driveway is curved and steep, and the weight shift to the rear works to BMW’s advantage, but the pull of the front wheels makes the difference. I want the 40 w/AWD, I believe it’s coming.
This was honestly perfect review of the car, literally what a normal day-to-day job person would look for in premium range. M version is nice and fancy but just as in petrol version, range is main component. Definitely would go for eDrive 40 and especially the same classy white with blue highlights -unbeatable beauty. Once again, thank you so much for showing us around. Appreciate this video.
This is absolutely the most pleasant and watchable review I've ever seen. Well done. Thorough and informative but casual and friendly.
You're far too kind, thanks :)
The initiation of BMW i with the 3 and 8 were great because they got people talking, but this is so nice. What a fantastic looking car.
Test drove one on the weekend and placed my order today (Mineral white - M Sport Pro Pack). Spot on review. I found the 0-60 pleasing, but acceleration for overtaking was phenomenal. Totally agree with the ride. Very smooth, even in sort mode with things stiffened up a bit. Thanks for the vid!
I ordered the i4 as soon as my test drive was over, absolute fun to drive highely recommend anyone to test drive it.
Shame I'll have to wait until late 2022 to receive mine.
Late 2022! Bloody hell. Hopefully you don't mind the wait!
It's 2023. How is it?
Cracking review. Drove it the day after you and I think the best comment I can make is that it’s a really good, proper BMW that just happens to be electric. It doesn’t define the car, but it’s sodding good at the EV stuff. Great vid as always Tim 👍
Couldn't agree more! Danke other Tim
I loved driving this car. The fact that it is fully electric is just bonkers!
Not a fan of the grilles still but I agree that my favourite thing about this car is that it doesn’t scream “EV” when you look at it since it’s built on the 4 series gran coupe chassis
@@TimRodieDrivesStuff you're great! Consider me subscribed!
Agree on the power being plenty for daily driving, especially since I’ve been told from my local dealership that the 0-60 time quoted by BMW is higher than real life performance, meaning the 0-60 time is actually quicker than quoted by BMW. I’ll take the extra range and extra cost savings, I’m sure in the future we’ll see a next gen version of this car that gives you the best of both worlds, more range and performance.
I've managed to get 0-62 in 5.2 seconds. Half a second quicker than reported.
Great review, happy to have come across this channel. Video length was perfect, gave highs/lows on all the important details, and nice touches of levity.
This guy deserves way way more subs.
Thanks! True…
I know you say you don’t need the m50 and in all 90% of us you are right. But I think I’d need the x drive is a must with a bmw. In wet and icy especially on country roads you need the 4 wheel drive. Very good review. I never had a bmw car until they put x drive on their cars. Now I’d have nothings else.
I like the Extra grip the xdrive allows ,ive had plenty of 3 series Bmws ,and it would Inly be the m50 for me ,sacrificing a bit of feel for surefooted ness
The best i4 review, thank you 😉
Thanks Tony!
Thanks for a great review, first I’ve seen of the 40 and I fully agree range trumps 0-60 any day!
not if you lose awd in the bargain !
Thanks for the review - I've been waiting for a 40 review!
Thanks Bill :)
Tim, as you know, there is no lack of test drive etc videos on TH-cam. But I really enjoy the information you bring, your style, and definitely your sense of humor. I just subscribed. Cheers, Cliff
Thank you very much - I really appreciate it! More nonsense to come
Tim when I'm not looking at you, you sound just like Prince William. You have a lovely speaking voice.
I've ordered my i4 in the dark green and cognac leather interior.
Wow, thanks Christina! Weirdly in a previous life I was paid to hit Prince William's more ginger brother in an army exercise. Slightly surreal… but that sounds like a killer i4 spec and exactly how I specced mine on the configurator. That green is something else
Thanks for review, I have this car in blue with sports pack arriving in March and you've now made me very excited and sure I've made the right choice!!! 😀
Thanks for the great review! Finally someone pays attention to the non-M50 ;) I ordered the edrive40 M-sport in Brooklyn Grey with Tacora Red interior back in november (probably won't get it before 2023 though)
Thanks Ben! I've already paid attention to the M50… but I think I'd go for the eDrive40 if it was my own money. Wait times are an absolute biatch at the moment
Nice video. Ordered the I4 E40 full black…
Great review. Seriously considering ordering one. The company is making us go electric and I don’t want an SUV. Soo my choice is basically limited to the tesla model 3, polestar 2 and BMW i4. I really don’t like tesla, the polestar 2 drives great (in dual motor version), but the range is to limited. The i4 seems like a great option, but waiting for test vehicles (in 40e trim) to be available. The M50 seems nice, but in my budget I’d rather have some options and I get the feeling the 40e is plentiful.
Good luck keeping it charged on a long journey.
@@MrSnicol That will be the main challenge. I tend to do 3 1000km trips a year and and 4 shorter ones (500 to 800 km), sot that is a price I have to pay. I calculate 2 extra hours on a single trip for the ski holidays. On the other hand, withe the current fiscal system in my country and my company policy I can go for either a basic diesel Mercedes CLA 180d, BMW X1 16d or something similar, or a nicely equipped i4 edrive40. And the i4 will cost me less company car tax. So in my case, would you go for a 115hp diesel or just go electric.
@@MrSnicol Won't be an issue. BMW decided this month to charge 10% more for the car, so I'll order something else and never buy a BMW again.
Very much agree with your verdict, mate! RWD EV BMW FTW
I feel so much better after watching your video! I ordered an i4 40 Msport, but almost ordered the M50. Now I know I made the right decision. Thank you!
Glad I could help - you'll enjoy it regardless. The M50 is just a bit overkill (and I wonder if they'll do an M60…)
The BMW is pretty amazing. Very quiet, very refined, nice interior. I don't care if it is not a dedicated EV platform and I don't have much use for the supercharger network. I drove a tesla 3 performance yesterday. Good technology, abysmal car. Crap ride in town and on motorway, very noisy, cheap flimsy interior, cheap suspension. Seats uncomfortable. It takes a lot to make a car, otherwise you end up with an electric appliance.
I’m ok with the leveraged platform also. Great car. I ordered an E40 last week.
Thanks for presentation. But I think you're wrong with the rear air suspension. I think it's standard on all i4 versions.
Yup, several people at BMW gave me duff info… oh well!
Good review that. I'm shopping for a replacement for my Honda e as it runs out. I know that the two cars don't seem comparable, but essentially the common element is "nice to drive, look at and sit in" and I just need some more space now as the kids are getting better.
Sympathies on the wrist - I suffered a broken rib from a toddler leaping onto me when I was laying down! When they're older they break their own wrists instead...
Finally a review! I have one on order and have been searching for this daily. Thank you, and a great job. Good luck feeding the kids 😄
Thanks Ed! You'll love it. The kids are enjoying beans on toast for Christmas
Just subscribed. You talk sense. And no silly music.
Oh I can do silly music… but I'll try not to. Thanks Sid!
Great video and an interesting comparison to your i4 M50 video earlier in the year. The e drive and M50 are on the shortlist to replace a B9 S4 next year. Only other car that's appealing at the minute is the etron GT. Where would you place the e drive and M40 in comparison to the Audi? Have driven the GT, hoping to drive an i4 early in the New Year before taking the plunge... Looks a compelling car. Keep up the great work!
I would definitely take the m50. Range is definitely not even top5 thing to me. I need it maybe once a year.
i like this guy
this what matt and others should learn when testing bmws
not just rubishing the car
Hi Tim, brilliant cool fantastic review. Just as you say real world range is 300 miles! No issues, no problem. Handling is absolutely superb! 0-60 who cares? It’s fast enough! But 50-70+ off the bloody scale.. certainly on the motorway if somebody is tail gaiting behind!
I’ve actually bought this exact car! Ex Bmw press car! YC71AWH but now changed to personal plate! Got all the bells and whistle’s loving it everyday. This is coming from a 6 cylinder diesel 330d xdrive g21 touring fan.. no regrets electric i4 40 is brilliant!! 😊✅ Many thanks loving your reviews 👍
330d brilliant cars !
Thank you! Been waiting for the 40 review! First one I’ve seen on TH-cam. I am trying to decide between this or the Polestar 2 dual motor performance. Any thoughts comparing the two?
I have a Polestar 2 (Launch Edition so Dual Motor with Pilot & Plus packs), have been driving it for 13 months now and it's very good.
I really like the i4 but would go for the M50 version due to improved performance, styling, standard colour choice and leather interior. The BMW will be higher quality over the Polestar 2, but loses out on specification and interior room. I would miss the pano roof, adaptive cruise and heated steering wheel on the BMW.
Buying now I would probably get the BMW, but it would cost more money.
I love the Polestar. Buuuut the Polestar doesn’t seem to deliver the range it promises. Nor does the BMW, but it’ll go a lot further and is more fun to drive. Polestar is still bloody brilliant
You guys are making it harder 😂. I’ll have to wait for a i4 to land here in Australia before deciding. I have test driven the Polestar but I’ve had some 20 odd BMWs since my early twenties with the last one being M2C 4 months ago (replaced by a Model 3). I’m keeping the Tesla and going all EV hence looking for a second one for the family fleet. I have a feeling I will like the BMW because it’s what I’m used to!
@@TimRodieDrivesStuff btw I love your content. Don’t know how it is you don’t have more views and subs!
@@TimRodieDrivesStuff : WLTP range isn’t a promise. It’s a lab test to compare range against other cars.
The BMW goes further because it has a larger battery - 5 kWh more usable capacity, which in part is reflected in the higher purchase price.
Thanks for the review. I’d be keen to know what range it can really achieve. The iX3 achieved 91% of its WLTP on a range test by Carwow and if this did the same then it’s very good indeed.
First review I’ve seen of the ’base’ model 👍 this is what I would choose, it has plenty already and more range. Only thing i’m not too sure about is the enormous weight, it’s about 400kg more than a Model 3. I guess it’s because it’s based on the ICE platform but I didn’t expect the difference to be that big. It’s nice that Bmw lets you spec the car without the ’electric’ blue bits, without them it’s like any other Bmw and it’s a good thing. 👍
Better isolation cost a lot of weight but yeah not having a dedicated platform hurts as well. BMW could probably do better if they didn't cheap out by using the 4 series platform.
It's actually impressive to have identical range as the Model 3 while not even fully committing to the EV architecture.
Not sure where you got that information from but it's wrong. This car here weighs 2125kg (EU) which is 195kg more than the Model 3s 1930kg (EU) with both having an 80kWh battery.
@@MadDaCube I got that from bmw blog site which claimed 500kg difference but after doing some searching, I think they didn’t have the correct numbers. Another site, ev database states that the Model 3 standard version is 1850 kg and the i40 edrive40 is 2125 kg, so 275kg difference. That sounds more reasonable. It’s still significant but for an ICE based platform it’s expected. Batteries are just so heavy that there’s not much they can do. Tesla saves a bit of weight on using new manufacturing methods such as mega castings and the ev-only platform explains a lot. Maybe BMW can reduce weight when they launch the Neue Klasse platform in few years but we have to wait and see.
Sound isolation and build quality adds weight too. More luxurious cars are always significantly heavier.
That’s not the base model
But for those that have 4 seasons, the AWD is a bit more of peace of mind. Not to mention the i4 you tested had some upgrades putting in even closer to the m50 price tag.
TBH, as long as you have snow tires RWD handles pretty much on par with AWD on regular roads. I live in Alaska and drive 2 RWD vehicles. Unless you're constantly doing off-road travels, RWD is fine.
If you want one get the order in quickly. I ordered my M-Sport with the tech and pro pack back in August. Delivery was supposed to be in the beginning of March 2022 but now I’m being told it will be the end of April. Also you get less range with the msport model on 19 inch rims. It’s around 345 miles but still way better than the M50.
Did the same today and is estimated in April or May. What's the pro pack? There's the premium pack here in the U.S. for an additional $950. Will be the final price of $67,000 and hopefully some type of incentive (AKA discount) for waiting.
@@jmiyagisan it’s called the MSport Pro Pack in the UK. Seven options in one pack which includes adaptive dampers, blue or red brake calipers and other cosmetic options such as MSport seatbelts and sun protection glass. You can get around six option packs in the UK. I ordered the tech pack just for the wireless phone charging as you couldn’t spec it separately. In an uncharacteristic move for BMW the IX3 has most of the option packs as standard!
@@robru I noticed that too. Now it seems everything is separate at a higher price point 😔
I haven't used the new iDrive yet but why did they have to move the climate controls to the screen?! I'm sure it's fine, but the last gen was absolutely perfect with regular climate controls and a big screen.
Nice review. Considering ordering one, but we can’t test the i4 40e yet here. The M50 is above my budget and I think the 40e should be sufficient.
Currently delivery time is once a year.
now BMW need to do a 2 series variant with this exact spec and release next yr when production costs should b lower, nearer £30k :) - Might stand a slight chance against forthcoming Chinese EVs then...
Would be perfect for me!
That’s why the Mini Cooper se exist! Haha
An estate version of this would be my ideal choice, so much better than the glut of bloated suv's that most new ev's seem to be.
absolutely - could do with a practical EV estate. The Taychan is more practical as an estate than the standard car, but still not exactly practical ...
Thank you for reviewing the base model of this car. Seems like the focus has been solely on the M50
I wanted one before. NOW I REALLY want one!!!
I kind of wished for something in between here - being in Canada where it snows often, I would like to have xDrive, but don't need the full blown M50 package.
So can BMW make a...say, i4 xDrive45e that has AWD or something like that?
Just buy T3 long range ))
Love your vid, made me chuckle this morning. Have a good Christmas 🎄
Thanks for the nice video … they only statement i missed was something about the energy consumption of the car .. I ordered one, since this was the only useful car to tow my tiny caravan ..
Hats off to bmw for not making the first volume EV a bloody CUV like MB and Audi, they are absolutely horrible
Well technically the iX was released at about the same time
The M50 is not constant AWD and the front motor engages for traction and acceleration but is otherwise off when you're cruising for longer range. Thus that front motor is dead weight in conditions where you're stretching for range.
This is why the E40 is the better option if your goal is luxurious practicality rather than sporty performance. Unless you plan to use those extra 200 horses up front often, the M50 is quite a heavy beast to take on a long road trip.
We ordered ours in this trim last month. I cannot wait for it to come in.
I'm curious to know what options your test car had on it, because it appears to me that based on the different front end, that it has the M Sport pack; which, besides adding some visual differences to the car, also includes the air suspension (they come as part of one package in the US, but can be ordered separately in other parts of the world, I believe). That might explain why the ride felt the same as the M50. I've driven the 40eDrive without the M Sport pack (no air suspension in the rear), and could certainly tell a difference in the way it drove. It was still really smooth, but definitely felt different. And I don't think there were different drive modes for the suspension in that guise (you could still adjust steering and transmission, though). The maximum quoted range on the 40 is when it rides on 18-inch wheels, and your tester clearly has the 19s, which drops the range. And, my guess, is that the car is set up for the American (EPA) test cycle, because the 40eDrive with 19-inch wheels has a range (again, based on the US standard) of 282 miles. I would assume that a car sold directly to the UK (not a journalist tester, flown around the world) would probably reflect estimates based on the UK standard. But that is all speculation on my part.
Loved the review mate. Keep up the good work!
Thanks very much. Had my heart set on the M50 until I watched this. Probably go for this model instead now.
I'd rather have this over the M50 , that weight in the front from the extra motor can't be good for driving dynamics , or range... plus 350ish HP is plenty enough on most roads.
Have driven the M50 that is available for a test-drive now and noticed it was quicker than quoted. Really great video of an actual M40 that a lot of people look forward to! Many thanks for the 'daily-drive' comparison of the electric i4 :)
Thanks for the kind comment Jorrit
Looks a good option for electric. Plenty of power for today's congested roads
I would buy this thing, but no driving assistance pro package available? Pass. I currently have things like radar cruise and traffic jam assist and won’t go without now.
Yes, it's available.
Good to see a review of the Everyman version (sic). I found the P2 too firm and nausea inducing so looking for a more comfortable option . Test drive me thinks.
Great review, had mine on order since December hopefully be here in June
Thanks Craig - really hope you enjoy it! I was meant to be running one for 6 months for DriveTribe but sort of got made redundant. I'll live vicariously through you!
ordered mine last july... iam still waiting :(
Der bajuwarisch Weißwurstwagen watscht weniger wichtige Wichtigtuerwagen. Thanks for your review! Hope I get the opportunity to drive it myself soon! Happy Wurstfest and long live BMW!
Seriously considering order one to replace my F10 535 but my wife wants SUV…. Worth go for m50 vs eDrive40 with justifiable cost on HK, 544HP, 19” Rims and perf tyres, M brakes… etc. Look forward iDrive8 with curved displays in other models can choose especially next iX3 SUV!
I have the blue exterior accents on the iX3 I ordered. Not by choice, it was the last car with beige interior in the country🤪 happy to update if and when I wrap’em
Beige interior! We can be friends
The conventional separate digital dashboard and separate central screen will always look and be better.
Enjoyed 🚗 and presentation!
Thanks Con!
You say that only the M50 has air suspension. The reason you cannot tell the difference is I believe all models have air suspension at the rear.
Fact!
Thanks for the video. Personally, I have ordered the m50 version just to get the four-wheel drive. Where I live there are snow 100+ days a year so even if I don’t need the extra power four wheel drive is pretty much mandatory. Sad that this model is only available in rear-wheel drive!
RWD is so much fun in snow though!
Can’t thank you enough for putting the slap to traffic light Grand Prix 0-60 times in these electric car reviews. I’ve worked and saved long enough to buy one of these only by staying alive and not driving like that.
Mate, great review I have made my mind up. I’m going to order one today. Do you know if the tech pack comes with the ambient lighting?
I have a Tesla Model 3 Performance -21 and I really like the car except for the build quality issues and cheap materials. I´m rather OCD when it comes to rattles and squeeks etc and the Tesla is FULL of them. I have sorted out about 5 rattles etc but there are more there. Also now we have a hight pitch noise coming from the engine when you are cruising. Tesla is going to measure it and if it´s "within spec" (yes they use that term) they are not going to fix it. So I´m considering moving to BMW i4 instead but it will be more expensive with equipment. When you drove it, did you hear any sounds that weren´t suppose to be there? Rattles, squeeks and so on?
Great review and informative, thanks, looks a great option for a n easy transition into an EV from a BMW Diesel Touring
Yep, sure is! I'd like them to do a touring version though… I love a BMW estate
100% agree that the 40 has the better ride and better steering, quite apart from the range and £7k saving over the M50 👌
The crash pads for the high-voltage battery may not have been assembled. This can cause damage to the high-voltage battery in the event of a serious side crash and may cause a short-circuit increasing the risk of a fire.
The BMW i4 vehicles affected by this recall were manufactured between 15 September and 30 November 2021.
BMW recall code: 61430600
Affected models: i4.
BM always more excellent and exquisite than American made which is rough and reckless
Can you turn the dsc off? Can it do donuts? Does it have lsd or some electronic ghizmo to help with traction? Most important questions for real bmw entusiasts...
I can’t wait for mine to come in, such an exciting car!!
The A272 is indeed a great road!
I think that you didn’t notice the difference in suspension because you have the adaptive M-suspension on this eDrive 40 model, which is basically the same as in the M50?
Looks very similar to bmw 4 gran tourer? In fact, maybe they just took the engine out and replaced it with batteries? It still has the the drive tunnel running through it, who are they kidding. They should have taken the i3 extended it by 600mm and increased the battery size to 75kw. Best BMW ever (i3), just my opinion.
Pleasant review. Happy Christmas
The edrive40 has air suspension as well in the rear!
Indeed it does - about 3 people at BMW told me it didn't…
I'm glad I couldn't tell the difference then!
@@TimRodieDrivesStuff I am glad as well, since I ordered this version. Thanks for the great review, one of the first to finally check out the edrive40:)
Thanks Tim. Interesting review and told me what I wanted to know - e40 or M50. e40 it is then!
M50 > e40. Range is whatever for me cause I probably drive 15-35 miles a day. The thing that I need is xdrive seeing as I live in Wisconsin and we get a substantial amount of snow. Since it's only rwd that's a killer for me. I also have a 240i and going from that to the e40 is a big drop in performance. I know performance isn't everything but everytime I drive I definitely like to give it some gas(not full throttle). Also the m50 is incredibly practical compared to my 240i so it's the better option for me.
Great video - Is this the standard white or the metallic white? thanks.
I'm curious how tall you are? You seem quite tall and the backseat would perhaps not feel so tight for a shorter adult.
As a short person (5'2") I find many vehicles, especially American ones, are barely able to get close enough for a comfortable ride for me. This one, like my previous bmw and my mercedes slk, are comfortable for me. The only more comfortable ride I've ever had as a driver is my c4 corvette, which perfectly fits a smaller frame.
Sorry Planet Earth but I've got a 420d Gran Coupe on the way because:
1. The same spec on the i4 40 is £13,600 more than I'm paying for the oil burner ... some things standard on the ICE variants are extras on the EV e.g. leather seats
2. I could actually order the car and get one delivered with my spec in a reasonable timeframe. Signed the order in mid November and it's already built and on it's way with no deletions except passenger lumbar.
3. It's got a theoretical range of about 750 miles on a full tank ... I watch the EV queues at service stations get bigger and bigger (opportunity for a TH-cam channel specialising in fights over charging points?)
I'm truly jealous of anyone that can afford to pay the extra and isn't afraid to wait, both for delivery and at the charging stations but for me it's still not viable yet. Fingers crossed and in another 4 years I'll be trading in for an EV.
I'm seriously tempted to order a M240i...I would go EV but the charging infrastructure where I live is nowhere near good enough. I shall have to wait before making the switch, and potentially move to a better served part of the UK.
Hate to say it - but had you factored in depreciation? In four years a BMW i4 will be worth ... well, a fair chunk of what you paid for it. And you'll have trouble giving away the 420d, except to a government scrappage scheme.
@@gothmog2441 if he finances it he can simply hand it back to BMW just like under any PCP deal. Then get another new car. Maybe he doesn’t care about depreciation. Not everyone does.
I wish motor journalists would highlight that point… German EVs seem to be compliance cars, they could better and MUCH cheaper if they’d actually make the transition to electric more whole hearted!
Awesome review ….. I want one !!
My experience of BMW i4 was understeer and heavy in the bends. 40 or 50 made little difference. The car just wasnt as dynamic as a Tesla 3P. Sorry. Ofherwise it was built superb and the idrive was excellent. On the way to buy it id veer off and buy a Tesla 3P though because i like to be able to charge without hassle in UK. Good car, average EV.
Tim..Great video..have a company car scheme and am in a dilemma between the 330 e vs i4 m50 vs i4 e40...all costing me similar monthly. I have a daily commute round trip 60 miles. Any advice?
seriously no contest bmw i4 40 best!! 👍✅
Amazing review, gained a subscriber. Keep it up!
Thanks for the sub Michael!
@@TimRodieDrivesStuff easiest sub ever, after watching this video you made up my mind and I went and put my deposit down for the e40, hopefully Canada gets out models by summer!
My reasoning for the M50 is the AWD. If the 40 came with an AWD version I would certainly look into it.
why?
@@TheMaGe- I live where we get lots of snow in the winter
Hi, does UK I4 eDrive40 no air suspension on the rear ??? The German version has!
I've since been told it does! BMW UK told me some lies…
I like this car a lot. At the present it's probably the one I'd buy.
Lease instead.
Great review. But if you are interested in (after sales) customer service you should not consider BMW at all
Great review,thank you.
Thanks!
Great review for the base version Tim. How do you compare it against electric crossover suvs like ford mustang mach e?
I prefer it because it just feels less boat-like. The Mach E has its own charm, but it's a wallowy old barge by comparison.
Informative and cool review mate, thank you, subed!
liked but i don't know how much I can feed your family though, keep it up :)
good Review 👍🏼
We all stuck in an interesting place. I drive an Arteon 240 Diesel HP... Great car 4 wheel drive, comfortabel, a little on the soft side, a cruiser no sports car but look pretty ok. I enjoy driving it. Testdrived model 3 summer 2019 and didn´t like it. Just went on a ride with my friend who has the top model of model 3 and yeah it has crazy acceleration. He talked about it and he talked about Kilowatt/electricity and charging etc. Seriously it felt like a toy car and apart from the acceleration it wasn't much I liked. I like Polestar but batteris are said to be not as good as Teslas. So keep driving the car I like and pay crazy for Diesel or invest in electric for more than double the price I get back or my Arteon. Boring choices here to be honest:)... And I just got a charger installed for my parking in the apartment complex. I live in the city... So should I skip my Arteon and go Hyundai Ionic5. I mean things doesnt really make sense. i really like this i€ except from it being small for my young adult kids in the backseat. Even I enjoy riding in the backseat of the Arteon but this i4 doen's offer much comfort back there. It is though a very nice looking car. Damn it is fine....
Thx 4 the review, what u think of a Tesla Model 3 in comparison especially when even the performance is way cheaper then the i40 and yes I am a BMW lover from Germany but not rich :-))
Refreshing reviews
I’m subscribed
Yay, thanks Andrew - really appreciate it!
great review. I'm living in Quebec/Canada. Wondering how RWD would be in winter months. M50 would be better with AWD. If I choose M50 will be denied 8000$ subvention from governement. Currently driving audi quattro A7 2014. Please let me know your toughts on that RWD I4 40 vs AWD m50 in winter conditions
If you lock brakes on a turn, 4wd or 2wd, doesn't make a difference, you will hit the wall. But with traction control these days, its minimal difference.
@@smok4101 good point. thanks for your input
I live and ski in the mountains, and AWD is needed if you drive on steep slopes. My driveway is curved and steep, and the weight shift to the rear works to BMW’s advantage, but the pull of the front wheels makes the difference. I want the 40 w/AWD, I believe it’s coming.
Great review!