I’m currently looking at a few options for my next car, including the M*40i, i4 M50, and Audi S5. I’m hoping to find a 2022 or newer model on the used market to cut down on costs and minimize the depreciation hit that comes with new cars. I’ve been considering entering the EV market for some time, and it seems like a good chance to make the switch.
I have a test drive scheduled for a 2023 i4 M50 tomorrow. I’m interested to hear from anyone who has compared these models or others like the Mustang MachE or Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. What factors influenced your decision to choose the i4? As a potential switch from conventional engines to an electric i4, what should I be aware of? Any regrets?
Also, does anyone know if the i4 allows for setting specific charging times? I won’t be using the car daily, so optimal charging schedules are crucial for me. Thank you for sharing your insights!
I just got my 2024 i4 m50 last Monday. It’s the most enjoyable, smooth, and satisfying car I’ve driven. It’s my sixth BMW but my first EV. I was worried it wouldn’t be as thrilling as the ICE BMWs, but I love it. It’s like driving a stealth jet—amazing power and acceleration with super smooth handling.
I haven’t looked at those other models. I was considering the x3 m40 or the m340i, but the m50 won me over.
You can easily adjust your charging settings in the car or via the BMW app. You can even set the car to heat or cool before you start driving. Just make sure you have a good warranty because repairs, especially the battery, can be costly. Other than that, it’s all good. I got mine in black sapphire with the m sport package, and it’s fantastic.
Best of luck with your decision, and I hope you join the m50 community!
I got my 2024 i4 m50 three weeks ago. I’ve previously owned an f82 m4 and a g01 x3 m40. The i4 is faster and smoother than the m4, though you can feel its weight. It’s my first EV, and I’m loving it. The battery lasts about as long as half a tank compared to my other cars, but I can charge at home whenever. You can definitely set specific start and end times for charging.
I’m not sure about the prices for 2022 models, but you can get 12% off a new one right now, so maybe consider that as well.
@Maris
I heard about the 12% discount. How do I qualify for that? I’d consider a new one if I could get a good deal. Dealerships around here usually stick to the MSRP.
Ash said: @Maris
I heard about the 12% discount. How do I qualify for that? I’d consider a new one if I could get a good deal. Dealerships around here usually stick to the MSRP.
I used a broker from lease hacker. I got 12% off MSRP, plus the $7500 EV credit and $1000 for BMW loyalty. I recommend reaching out to a broker; they can move quickly and have connections with dealers. They don’t mind if you buy or lease, but leasing might be better if you want the EV credit.
@Ash
Brokers have ongoing relationships with dealers and will source cars based on your needs. They pre-negotiate deals, so you don’t have to. You can buy or lease, but leasing might be best for a BMW EV so you can claim the $7500 tax credit, then you can buy the car if you decide to keep it.
I switched from a 2016 S6 (v8) to a new 2023 i4M50. The gas savings and lower maintenance costs were big factors. I loved the S6, but maintaining it was costly. I find the BMW’s all-wheel drive less effective than Audi’s Quattro in bad weather, but overall, I’m very happy with my decision.
@Reese
I’m also considering moving away from Audi due to high maintenance costs and reliability issues. The S5 looks great and is comfortable, but I think I’d be happier with a different option. I’m excited to test drive the i4.
It really depends on your previous cars and what you like to drive. I’ve owned several M and AMG cars before getting my late 2022 i4M50. The fuel savings are significant, as it’s much cheaper to charge than to buy gas. I mostly charge it twice a week, or just top it up for short trips.
I’ve taken it on long road trips across Europe, and charging was never a problem, though I wish it had more range. The car is comfortable but very heavy, and I miss the sound of my old AMG’s exhaust. I sometimes find myself missing my old cars and looking at other options for the future. The car’s weight and size are my main issues; it feels like driving a large SUV.
Peyton said:
I’m curious, which is faster: the m340i or the i4 e40?
I’m not really considering either of those models right now. I’m mainly looking at the M240xi, M440i GC, and the i4 M50. From what I’ve read, the i4 is the fastest in terms of straight-line speed, followed by the M240 and then the M440. But it’s a close race.
The M240i has the highest top speed, likely due to a higher speed limiter. It’s also the lightest of the three, which probably makes it the fastest around corners where extra weight is a disadvantage.
Palmer said:
I’m curious to hear from people who bought their cars new versus used, or who chose to lease, and your reasons behind those choices.
I chose to lease because it qualified me for the $7500 electric vehicle credit, and it’s my first electric car, so I was unsure about how long the batteries would last.
I bought two BMW i4 M50s; these are my first and second BMWs. I compared them with all EVs and a few ICEs, including all Mercedes and Audis. I’ll share more details when I have more time.
Edit: I bought the first one after extensive test drives and watching many YouTube reviews. The performance is incredible, and I like the controversial look, despite some reviews not liking the massive grill. I had a major issue when the charger at ElectrifyAmerica damaged my M50, but it was covered under warranty, and I used the Lemon Law to get a refund. I’m still waiting for compensation from ElectrifyAmerica.
The performance is the main reason I’d recommend the M50. Be prepared to replace performance tires every 20,000 miles. My original tires only lasted 18,000 miles. I also considered the Audi eTron GT and Porsche Taycan. A friend who owns an Audi prefers my M50, although his was more expensive. Porsche is out of my price range, and I also considered the iX and i7, but they felt too bulky. I’m also looking forward to the 2025/6 BMW Neue Klasse for something sportier and lighter.
@Valen
It sounds like you really like the i4 M50. I’m debating whether to buy a used one with good options or to lease a new one. I’m also considering an M240i for its nimbleness, but the i4 M50’s performance is very tempting. I’m still undecided.