BMW i4 vs i5: Which Electric Powerhouse Suits You Best?

In the world of electric vehicles (EVs) BMW is a leader combining style performance and technology. With their i-Series the brand has been pushing the boundaries and now two models stand out—the BMW i4 and the BMW i5. If you're debating which one suits you better you've come to the right place. We’ll dive into all the key differences between the BMW i4 and BMW i5 including performance, design, technology, and more to help you decide. But beware like any car there are a few drawbacks that are worth considering.

Performance: Speed and Power Comparison

When it comes to electric vehicles performance is often a top consideration. So how do the BMW i4 and i5 compare when it comes to power, speed and overall performance?

BMW i4 Performance

The BMW i4 offers impressive performance considering its size and price. You can opt for the BMW i4 eDrive40 with 335 horsepower or go for the more robust i4 M50 with an outstanding 536 horsepower. These numbers translate to a 0-60 mph time of around 3.7 seconds for the M50 version. That’s no joke—it can easily keep up with some performance sedans out there.

• Electric Range: The i4 offers up to 300 miles of range on a full charge for the eDrive40 trim. While the M50's sportier performance takes a hit on range it still provides around 245 miles.
• Battery Capacity: Equipped with an 81.5 kWh battery, the i4 delivers ample range and power for daily commutes and longer drives.
• Driving Dynamics: The i4 excels with BMW's signature balanced handling. Its low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted batteries) provides excellent cornering capabilities. However, some drivers have noticed that it can feel a bit heavy at times especially during quick direction changes.

BMW i5 Performance

The BMW i5 takes things up a notch as a larger more luxurious EV offering. The standard model i5 eDrive40 churns out 335 horsepower similar to the i4 eDrive40 but the M60 variant gives a massive boost with 590 horsepower. The i5’s performance leans more towards luxury than sportiness but still manages to go from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds with the M60 trim.

• Electric Range: The i5 can go up to 295 miles on a full charge slightly less than the i4 eDrive40 but still highly competitive in its class.
• Battery Capacity: It also has a similar 81.2 kWh battery, giving it comparable power efficiency. The i5, being a bit bigger and heavier, has a somewhat shorter range than the i4 under similar conditions.
• Driving Feel: The i5 feels a bit more refined and cushier on the road. You might not get the same sharp handling as the i4 but it offers a more plush ride that’s ideal for highway cruising and longer trips.

Verdict: i4 or i5 for Performance?

For speed junkies, the i4 M50 offers a more engaging driving experience. If luxury comfort with adequate power is more your style, the i5 M60 could be your perfect fit. However keep in mind that the i5’s heavier build may result in a slightly softer handling than some enthusiasts might like.

Design: Aesthetics Inside and Out

BMW has a reputation for sleek modern designs and both the i4 and i5 don’t disappoint but they offer different vibes. Let’s compare their aesthetics.

Exterior Design: BMW i4

The BMW i4 has a more compact, sporty look. It shares its design with the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe meaning it has an attractive fastback silhouette. The i4 feels sporty and agile, looking just as fast as it drives. The signature kidney grilles are present though since it's an electric vehicle they're sealed for aerodynamics. The i4’s lower stance and narrower profile make it look ready for action.

Exterior Design: BMW i5

On the other hand, the i5 is designed to be a mid-sized luxury sedan. It’s more in line with the classic BMW 5 Series, with a larger more imposing body. The i5 looks executive and offers a more formal and mature appearance. Like the i4, it features the bold kidney grille design but is a little less aggressive. Instead, it leans into its luxury sedan vibe.

Interior: Cabin Comfort and Style

Both cars feature BMW’s signature high-quality interior materials, but there are some differences:

• BMW i4: Inside, the i4 feels sportier and more driver-focused. The seats are firm and designed to hold you in place during spirited driving. The cabin is slightly more compact, which may feel cozier to some and cramped to others especially in the back.
• BMW i5: The i5 feels more spacious and luxurious inside. It’s got more legroom for rear passengers and the seats are plusher with more luxurious materials. Ambient lighting and fine wood trim add a higher-end feel. The i5 is clearly built for comfort and refinement on longer journeys.

Verdict: i4 or i5 for Design?

If you're into a more sporty, dynamic look the i4 is a better fit. If you're looking for something more executive and comfortable the i5’s roomier and more luxurious cabin will be hard to resist.

Technology and Infotainment: BMW's iDrive Experience

BMW i4 Tech

The i4 features BMW’s iDrive 8 system, which includes a 14.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. It’s loaded with tech features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, and BMW's voice assistant. The i4’s tech is very user-friendly although the amount of features can be overwhelming at first. The iDrive controller makes navigating the system while driving a breeze and there's also support for over-the-air updates.

BMW i5 Tech

The BMW i5 also features iDrive 8 but takes things a step further. You’ll find a crystal-clear display combined with a larger curved screen setup similar to the i7. It’s designed with even more of a focus on luxury. Additional features include gesture controls, which allow you to control certain functions like adjusting the volume just by moving your hand in front of the screen. The i5 is also equipped with 5G connectivity and augmented reality navigation making long drives more seamless.

• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Both the i4 and i5 come with a suite of driver assistance features but the i5 offers more advanced options like Level 2 semi-autonomous driving which takes some of the strain off during highway driving.

Verdict: i4 or i5 for Tech?

Both models are packed with cutting-edge technology but the i5 offers a more luxury-focused experience with advanced driver assistance features and added bells and whistles like gesture control. If you want the latest tech innovations, the i5 is the way to go.

Practicality: Cargo Space and Everyday Usability

BMW i4 Practicality

The i4’s fastback design gives it a surprisingly practical hatchback-style trunk. It offers 10 cubic feet of cargo space, which is plenty for everyday needs and weekend trips but it can feel a bit limited if you plan on hauling large items. The rear seats can fold down to create more space though it's still tighter compared to some competitors.

BMW i5 Practicality

The i5 being larger offers much more room. It comes with 17 cubic feet of cargo space nearly double that of the i4 and its interior cabin offers more legroom and headroom especially for rear passengers. If you’re planning on doing more family trips or need more space for work gear or long vacations the i5 wins hands down in this category.

Price and Value: Is It Worth the Investment?

• BMW i4 Pricing: Starts around $55,000 for the eDrive40 version and around $66,000 for the M50.
• BMW i5 Pricing: Starts around $66,000 for the i5 eDrive40 and climbs to over $85,000 for the M60.

Both cars are priced competitively within their respective markets but the i4 offers a better value for those looking for performance without luxury extras. However if you’re looking for a more premium experience with added comfort and tech, the i5 justifies its higher price.

Potential Drawbacks of BMW i4

1. Space: While it’s perfect for city drivers or smaller families the i4’s interior space might feel cramped for taller passengers especially in the back seats.
2. Ride Comfort: The sporty suspension can feel a bit too stiff for some especially on rougher roads.
3. Performance trade-off: The i4 M50’s performance is exciting but it comes at the cost of reduced range. If you prioritize long drives this could be an issue.

Potential Drawbacks of BMW i5

1. Size: The i5 is bigger and bulkier which can make it feel a bit less agile compared to the nimble i4. Parking in tighter spaces could also be more challenging.
2. Price: The i5 is considerably more expensive and while it does come with more luxury features, some might find it hard to justify the cost if they're primarily looking for performance.
3. Overly soft: Some drivers have noted that the i5’s focus on comfort makes it less engaging to drive than the sportier i4 especially in twisty roads.

What Does Alex Collantes Think?

According to Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast with firsthand experience driving both models, “The BMW i4 is perfect for someone who still wants a bit of that thrill behind the wheel but doesn't want to sacrifice too much on range. The BMW i5 on the other hand, feels more like a luxury experience. If you're used to driving a 5 Series and want to go electric the i5 is a natural choice. But I will say, you can feel the difference in size. The i4 just feels a little more nimble. In the end, it depends on what you're looking for.”

Conclusion: BMW i4 or BMW i5?

Choosing between the BMW i4 and BMW i5 boils down to your personal preferences. If you're looking for a sportier drive with a smaller footprint, the BMW i4 offers excellent performance at a more affordable price point. However, if you want a larger luxury sedan with advanced tech features and a more spacious cabin, the BMW i5 is the clear winner. Both cars are phenomenal examples of BMW's electric vehicle expertise, but each caters to a slightly different crowd. Either way, you're getting a top-tier electric vehicle with plenty of performance, luxury, and technology to keep you satisfied for years to come.