@Tegan
Even without the optional rear steering, the i5 has a smaller turning circle than the i4, which was surprising given their size difference.
Monroe said:
@Tarian
The turning radius is indeed a common critique among i4 owners. It’s significantly wider than expected, especially in tight spaces.
And don’t get me started on the rear backup camera’s quality at night—it’s underwhelming.
@Tarian
Can you explain what B mode is? Is it a special driving mode?
Zen said:
@Tarian
Can you explain what B mode is? Is it a special driving mode?
B mode is essentially one-pedal driving mode in BMWs, activated through the gear selector.
Zen said:
@Tarian
Can you explain what B mode is? Is it a special driving mode?
In the i4, you activate B mode by tapping the gear selector twice backward. It enables one-pedal driving in most driving scenarios, offering a smooth driving experience similar to Tesla but with superior build quality and comfort features like the heads-up display.
Zen said:
@Tarian
Can you explain what B mode is? Is it a special driving mode?
Simply click the ‘Drive’ button twice to switch to B mode.
Zen said:
@Tarian
Can you explain what B mode is? Is it a special driving mode?
B mode maximizes regenerative braking, effectively allowing for battery charging through driving dynamics.
You can simply keep the key fob in your pocket or purse for a seamless entry and exit experience with the i4, much like the phone-as-key feature but more reliable.
Pat said:
You can simply keep the key fob in your pocket or purse for a seamless entry and exit experience with the i4, much like the phone-as-key feature but more reliable.
The comfort access feature with the key fob is just as convenient as using a phone but with greater reliability.
Pat said:
You can simply keep the key fob in your pocket or purse for a seamless entry and exit experience with the i4, much like the phone-as-key feature but more reliable.
While Tesla’s phone-as-key feature is innovative, BMW’s key fob provides a more consistent experience.
As someone who has transitioned from Tesla’s Model Y to an i4 M50, I find the regenerative braking on the i4 comparable to Tesla when set to ‘High’ in B mode. The phone-as-key feature, however, is limited to NFC interaction, which might be seen as a step back in convenience compared to Tesla’s implementation. Overall, I enjoy the superior driving feel and build quality of the i4, although the charging network and user interface are areas where Tesla still excels.
@Zen
I opted for BMW’s car eye, which is somewhat similar to Tesla’s Sentry Mode, although I’ve never used a Tesla to compare directly.
Leith said:
@Zen
I opted for BMW’s car eye, which is somewhat similar to Tesla’s Sentry Mode, although I’ve never used a Tesla to compare directly.
Did you install the BMW car eye yourself? My dealer quoted a high installation cost.
@Zen
The dealer installed it for me at a significant cost, but I’ll look for the receipt to give you a better idea of the price.
Leith said:
@Zen
The dealer installed it for me at a significant cost, but I’ll look for the receipt to give you a better idea of the price.
Thank you for checking!
@Zen
Just to clarify, regenerative braking adjustments are available in D mode. B mode offers a single, consistent setting.
Addison said:
@Zen
Just to clarify, regenerative braking adjustments are available in D mode. B mode offers a single, consistent setting.
There does seem to be a difference in regenerative intensity between sport and efficiency settings, even in B mode. I prefer setting mine to efficiency for better energy recovery.
Having switched from a Tesla Model 3 Performance to an i4, I find the overall experience with the BMW more satisfying. While I miss some of Tesla’s unique features, the superior comfort, build quality, and user-friendly controls of the i4 make it a preferable choice for me. Tesla’s tech is innovative, but the i4 offers a more refined automobile experience.
As someone who owns both a new Model 3 and an i4, I find each has its strengths. Tesla excels in one-pedal driving and has a robust supercharger network, while the i4 offers superior driving dynamics and interior quality. However, the charging experience with Electrify America, compared to Tesla’s Superchargers, can be frustrating due to maintenance issues.
@Darin
You don’t necessarily need to press the power button to turn off the i4; it will automatically shut down when you exit the vehicle, although there may be instances where the accessories remain powered on.