Wasup folks,
I’m in the market for an electric vehicle and have narrowed it down to two options: the BMW i4 and the Tesla Model 3. I’ve done a fair bit of research but wanted to get some opinions from those who have experience with either or both of these cars.
The i4 makes some compromises that the Model 3 doesn’t, due to not being built on a dedicated EV platform. These compromises include a rear transmission tunnel and the absence of a front trunk or sub trunk, although the liftback design somewhat compensates for this. I recall watching a review mentioning throttle lag in the i4 that wasn’t noticeable in other EVs. I’d recommend test driving it to see if you notice this.
The i4 boasts a nicer interior, Apple CarPlay, and better ride quality, while the Tesla is more efficient, faster, and has access to the supercharger network. Tesla also includes many standard features that are optional on the BMW, such as rear heated seats, a heated steering wheel, heated wipers, and autopilot. Consider the price difference to add these options to the BMW and decide what’s best for you.
For what it’s worth, I drive a Tesla, but if my mother asked me which to choose between these two, I’d tell her to get the i4.
I recently sat in an i4 and honestly liked it much more than the Tesla. The drive felt better and had more character. The only downside is the backseat, which feels extremely claustrophobic due to the sharply sloping roof. The legroom in the back is also quite tight. In my opinion, it’s a very driver-focused car. It felt like a combination of a 5-series front row and a 3-series back row, all in the i4.
I owned three Teslas: a Model 3 RWD, a Model 3 Performance, and a Tesla Plaid. After switching to the BMW i4, I never went back to Tesla. The difference is like night and day. Tesla is overhyped; its features are unnecessary for everyday driving, and it lacks essential ones. You won’t be watching Netflix while taking kids to school, but you will appreciate a heads-up display, cooled seats, and better ride quality. The biggest drawback of the Tesla is its build quality, which is comparable to that of the Ford Fusion or Chevy. If you don’t mind rattles, squeaks, and upholstery wear after 10,000 miles, then Tesla might be for you. However, I can’t stand poor quality.
Despite the BMW’s less-than-appealing design, I’d still recommend it.
Our Tesla Model Y is back at the dealer yet again for the same issue; this makes it the fourth visit. And that’s not even counting the other minor issues and concerns about its build quality. The dealer is a two-hour drive away.
We’ve been provided with a loaner car on all occasions except one, but only one of them hasn’t been problematic. One was an older Model S with 68,000 miles where the driver’s seat wasn’t properly bolted down—it rocked back and forth during acceleration and braking. The second was a Model 3, which was fine. The current loaner is another Model 3, and it emits a terrible creak from the front suspension whenever we hit a bump or turn the wheel. It’s hard to articulate, but for some reason, these three loaners don’t inspire confidence in their longevity. There’s nothing glaringly wrong aside from normal wear and tear, but my partner even remarked, “If my Y feels like this in three years (our current loaners are 2018 models), I definitely won’t want it then.”
This doesn’t even include the issue of phantom braking, which, though improving slightly, remains a serious concern. I’m amazed we haven’t been in an accident because of it.
My partner has been eager for a Model Y since its release, and he’s had it for just over a year with fewer than 10,000 miles. Once our Bronco order arrives, we’re switching.
You’ll likely only hear two opinions here: either “Tesla is the best, and everyone else is inferior” or “Tesla is overhyped and disappointing.” Unfortunately, the decision is largely yours to make.
I appreciate you sharing your knowledge. You’ve made several insightful comparisons between the Model 3 and the i4. Although the liftback design helps balance this out, the i4’s platform-related sacrifices are noticeable, especially the rear transmission tunnel and trunk space restrictions.
You indicated that potential customers should test drive the vehicle to see whether or not the throttle lag worries them. It’s encouraging to learn that the i4 has a more luxurious cabin, enhanced ride quality, and amenities like Apple CarPlay.
However, Tesla’s effectiveness, speed, and network of Superchargers are its main selling factors. Although they are extra expensive, the basic features—such as the heated back seats, heated steering wheel, heated wipers, and Autopilot—are unquestionably beneficial.