Electric vehicles (EVs) remain a promising solution as the world seeks to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. These cars can save you money on fuel, help protect the environment, and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Moreover, advancements to all-electric and hybrid vehicles have made them more fun to drive while retaining these benefits.
One of the most exciting EVs on the market is BMW's i4 M50. This model is renowned for its world-class performance, which matches or surpasses many gas-powered competitors. Here's your complete guide to the 2023 BMW i4 M50 and whether it's worth its price.
Engine and Range
At the heart of the BMW i4 M50 are the car's dual all-electric motors which combine to produce a whopping 536 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque. These dual engines help the i4 M50 accelerate faster than many of its fuel-powered competitors, going from zero to 60 mph in approximately 3.7 seconds. Both motors distribute their power through a direct, xDrive all-wheel drive transmission. A 190-kW engine powers the front axle, whereas a 230-kW motor controls the rear axle.
The i4 M50's engines are unique current-excited AC synchronous motors. They don't use the rare-earth permanent magnets many other EVs do; instead, they use brushes to supply DC battery current to create a magnetic field. This unique design lets BMW avoid the cost, potential supply-chain issues, and adverse environmental impact from mining rare-earth magnets.
An 81-kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack with an advanced active thermal management system assists these motors. When using an 11-kW AC charger, you can restore this battery in approximately 8.25 hours. With a 200-kW DC fast charger, you can quickly charge your battery from 10% to 80% in around 31 minutes.
Your i4 M50's fuel economy and complete range will vary slightly depending on your selected version. According to EPA estimates, the i4 M50 with 19-inch wheels reaches 96 combined mpg and has a total capacity of 271 miles. Conversely, if you opt for the 20-inch wheels, your i4 M50's fuel efficiency will decrease slightly to 80 combined mpg and a full range of 227 miles.
Performance and Price
In addition to the i4 M50's robust, fully electric engine, the car has several features that make it both capable and thrilling for all types of rides. Whether turning frequently in a city or maneuvering through traffic on the highway, it's a dream to drive. With standard Variable Sport Steering and the Adaptive M Suspension, the i4 M50 gives you smooth and responsive handling.
Similarly, the car's Adaptive M Suspension and Dynamic Stability Control absorb all kinds of bumps with little to no effect on your vehicle's suspension or tire grip. With an impeccably balanced chassis, the i4 M50 is as fun to drive as it is straightforward. The starting MSRP for the i4 M50 is $68,700.
Exterior
While there is only one trim level for the i4 M50, there are several ways you can customize your car:
- Select between 12 colors for the exterior paint.
- Choose between multiple tire sizes and styles.
- Opt for the available Shadowline Package to get the extended Shadowline trim, lights, and sports brakes with red calipers.
The i4 M50 also features BMW's advanced grille that uses the same self-healing technology as the company's iX SUV. This technology corrects small chips and scratches from its surface after a few warm days or minutes under a hair dryer.
Interior and Technology
The i4 M50 has excellent interior features and technology that match its impressive performance capabilities. One of the first things you'll notice while driving is the sound. BMW's Creative Director Sound, Renzo Vitale, worked with Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer to create the car's pristine tone.
Some other notable interior and technology features include:
- Two-way power glass moonroof.
- Optional storage compartment package.
- 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats.
- Automatic dimming interior rear-view and driver-side exterior mirrors.
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers.
- Hi-Fi sound system with 205-watt digital amplifier.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Safety Features
Every BMW i4 M50 comes with a fleet of top-of-the-line safety features, including:
- Automatic high beams.
- Active Protection System: detects imminent accidents and prepares your BMW by automatically pre-tensioning seat belts, closing windows, and activating post-crash braking.
- Active Driving Assistant: includes Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic City Collision Mitigation and Braking, Active Blind Spot Detection, and Lane Departure Warning.
- Rear-view camera.
- Programmable LED daytime running lights.
- Park Distance Control: front and rear.
Warranties
Aside from its exceptional features and qualities, buying the i4 M50 also includes BMW's comprehensive warranties. With your i4 M50, you'll receive:
- A New Vehicle Limited Warranty covers your car for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- A 12-year, unlimited mileage rust perforation limited warranty.
- The BMW Ultimate Care maintenance program for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- An eight-year/100,000-mile High-Voltage Battery Warranty to protect your i4 M50's fully-electric battery-powered engine.
- A four-year, unlimited mileage Roadside Assistance program.
Is the BMW i4 M50 Worth it?
If you're looking for an EV that matches or even surpasses the performance of many fuel-dependent competitors, the BMW i4 M50 is well worth its price tag. Even without any add-ons or optional packages, this vehicle is an extraordinary feat of engineering. Those looking to improve their carbon footprint without sacrificing an exciting drive will love it.
Get Your Own i4 M50 at Apple BMW of York
Are you ready to test drive or buy your own BMW i4 M50? If you're in Central Pennsylvania, our Apple BMW of York dealership is the best place to do so. We've helped drivers get into the BMW of their dreams for more than 40 years. Plus, we pride ourselves as a comprehensive dealership. So, from shopping to financing to servicing, we have you covered.
No matter why you come to us, you can rest assured knowing we can help you and will do so as transparently as possible. Contact us online, call 877-858-7086, or visit us at 1370 Roosevelt Ave. in York.
black BMW M3 coupe by Sergio Rota is licensed with Unsplash License