BMW I4 M50 Redline Review: Is It Worth It?

Alright, car enthusiasts, buckle up! We're diving deep into the BMW i4 M50, pushing it to its redline and beyond. You're probably wondering, "Is this electric performance sedan worth the hype?" Well, let's find out together. This isn't just another review; it's a real-world examination of what this all-electric M-badged machine brings to the table. We'll cover everything from its blistering acceleration and handling to its luxurious interior and everyday usability. So, stick around as we uncover the truth about the BMW i4 M50. The i4 M50 marks BMW's first foray into electrifying its M Performance lineup, and it's safe to say expectations were high. It promises the exhilarating performance we've come to expect from the M badge, combined with the efficiency and sustainability of an electric vehicle. But can it truly deliver on both fronts? That's the question we're here to answer. We'll explore how well it stacks up against its gasoline-powered M counterparts, as well as other high-performance EVs on the market. Get ready for a comprehensive analysis of the BMW i4 M50, where we leave no stone unturned in our quest to determine its true worth.

Performance and Handling: Unleashing the Electric Beast

Let's get straight to the heart of the matter: performance. The BMW i4 M50 boasts a dual-motor setup, delivering a monstrous 536 horsepower and 586 lb-ft of torque in Sport Boost mode. This translates to mind-bending acceleration, launching you from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds. That's supercar territory, folks! But it's not just about straight-line speed. The i4 M50 also features adaptive M suspension, sport-tuned steering, and M Sport brakes, all working together to provide a thrilling and confident driving experience. The car feels planted and responsive in corners, inspiring you to push it harder. The electric powertrain delivers instant torque, making overtaking maneuvers effortless and exhilarating. The regenerative braking system is also well-tuned, allowing for smooth and intuitive one-pedal driving in most situations. However, it's important to note that the i4 M50 is a heavy car, weighing in at over 5,000 pounds. This weight can be felt in tighter corners, where the car's mass becomes more apparent. Despite this, the i4 M50 remains a remarkably capable and enjoyable performance machine. The blend of electric power and M-engineered handling creates a unique and compelling driving experience that's sure to put a smile on your face. Whether you're carving through mountain roads or simply cruising around town, the i4 M50 delivers a level of performance that's both exhilarating and refined. It's a true testament to BMW's ability to seamlessly integrate electric technology into its performance DNA. The regenerative braking system is also worth highlighting. It not only helps to extend the car's range but also provides a unique driving experience. With practice, you can learn to control the car's speed using only the accelerator pedal, making for a smooth and efficient driving experience.

Range and Charging: Living with an Electric M

Now, let's talk about the practical side of things: range and charging. The BMW i4 M50 has an EPA-estimated range of 270 miles on a full charge. However, in real-world driving conditions, this number can vary depending on your driving style, weather conditions, and use of features like climate control. During our testing, we found that a range of around 240-250 miles was more realistic. This is still a respectable number, but it's important to be aware of the potential discrepancy between the EPA estimate and real-world performance. When it comes to charging, the i4 M50 supports DC fast charging at up to 200 kW. This means you can add up to 90 miles of range in just 10 minutes at a compatible charging station. Charging at home using a Level 2 charger will take significantly longer, typically around 8-10 hours for a full charge. BMW offers a range of charging solutions for home installation, making it convenient to keep your i4 M50 topped up. It's also worth noting that the i4 M50 comes with access to the BMW Charging network, which provides access to a vast network of public charging stations across the country. This can be a valuable resource for long-distance travel or when you need to charge on the go. Overall, the range and charging capabilities of the i4 M50 are competitive with other electric vehicles in its class. However, it's important to carefully consider your individual driving needs and charging habits before making a purchase. If you frequently take long trips or don't have easy access to charging, you may want to consider a different vehicle with a longer range or faster charging capabilities. On the other hand, if you primarily drive around town and have access to home charging, the i4 M50's range and charging capabilities should be more than adequate. The BMW Charging network is a valuable resource for those who need to charge on the go.

Interior and Technology: A Luxurious and Modern Cockpit

Stepping inside the BMW i4 M50, you're greeted by a luxurious and modern cabin. The interior design is typical BMW, with high-quality materials, impeccable craftsmanship, and a driver-focused layout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing excellent lateral support during spirited driving. The dashboard is dominated by a massive curved display that houses both the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The display is crisp, clear, and easy to read, and the infotainment system is intuitive and responsive. BMW's iDrive system is still one of the best in the business, offering a wide range of features and customization options. The i4 M50 also comes standard with a host of advanced technology features, including a premium Harman Kardon sound system, a head-up display, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. These systems include features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. One of the standout features of the i4 M50's interior is the spaciousness. Despite its sleek exterior design, the i4 M50 offers ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats are also comfortable and supportive, making the i4 M50 a practical choice for families. The trunk is also surprisingly spacious, offering plenty of room for luggage or groceries. Overall, the interior of the i4 M50 is a delightful place to spend time. It's luxurious, comfortable, and packed with technology, making it a true pleasure to drive or ride in. The curved display is a particularly impressive feature, seamlessly integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment system into a single, cohesive unit. The advanced driver-assistance systems also add an extra layer of safety and convenience, making the i4 M50 a well-rounded and highly desirable vehicle. The premium Harman Kardon sound system is a treat for audiophiles.

Design and Styling: A Head-Turning Electric Sedan

The BMW i4 M50 boasts a sleek and modern design that's sure to turn heads. It combines the classic BMW silhouette with distinctive electric vehicle cues, creating a look that's both sporty and sophisticated. The front of the car is dominated by BMW's signature kidney grille, which is now closed off for improved aerodynamics. The slim LED headlights and aggressive front bumper add to the car's sporty appeal. Along the sides, the i4 M50 features a sloping roofline and sculpted body panels that give it a dynamic and athletic stance. The rear of the car is characterized by its slim LED taillights and a subtle rear spoiler. The overall design is clean and uncluttered, with a focus on aerodynamics and efficiency. One of the most striking design elements of the i4 M50 is its aerodynamic wheels. These wheels are designed to reduce drag and improve range, while also adding to the car's overall aesthetic appeal. The i4 M50 is available in a range of colors, including several exclusive M-specific hues. These colors further enhance the car's sporty and aggressive look. Overall, the design of the i4 M50 is a successful blend of form and function. It's a visually appealing car that also prioritizes aerodynamics and efficiency. The sleek lines and modern details make it stand out from the crowd, while the classic BMW elements ensure that it remains instantly recognizable. Whether you're a fan of electric vehicles or not, it's hard to deny the i4 M50's head-turning good looks. The sloping roofline gives the i4 M50 a coupe-like silhouette, adding to its sporty appeal. The aerodynamic wheels are not only functional but also visually striking. The M-specific colors further enhance the car's aggressive and sporty look. The i4 M50 is a car that's sure to get noticed wherever it goes.

The Verdict: Is the BMW i4 M50 Worth It?

So, after all this, is the BMW i4 M50 worth the investment? The answer, like most things in life, is nuanced. If you're looking for a high-performance electric sedan that offers exhilarating acceleration, confident handling, and a luxurious interior, then the i4 M50 is definitely worth considering. It's a true M car in every sense of the word, delivering a driving experience that's both thrilling and refined. However, it's important to be aware of the car's limitations. The range may not be as high as some other electric vehicles on the market, and the weight can be felt in tighter corners. Additionally, the i4 M50 is not exactly cheap, with a starting price of around $70,000. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the i4 M50 comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you're willing to pay a premium for performance and luxury, and you don't mind the slightly shorter range, then the i4 M50 is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for the most affordable or longest-range electric vehicle, there may be better options available. Overall, the BMW i4 M50 is a remarkable achievement. It's a car that successfully blends electric technology with BMW's performance DNA, creating a unique and compelling driving experience. It's not perfect, but it's definitely a car that's worth considering if you're in the market for a high-performance electric sedan. The i4 M50 is a true M car in every sense of the word. It delivers a driving experience that's both thrilling and refined. The interior is luxurious and packed with technology. The design is sleek and modern. The BMW i4 M50 is a car that's sure to impress even the most discerning drivers.