BMW has taken a significant step in attracting brand loyalists and Tesla Model 3 owners with its latest electric vehicle, the i4 M50. Positioned as an electric 4-series Gran Coupe, the i4 M50 offers a thrilling driving experience and outperforms the M3 Competition in acceleration while being more affordable.
The choice to develop the i4 M50 as a Gran Coupe makes perfect sense, as it combines the practicality of four doors and a spacious hatchback design, offering 301 miles of EPA-rated range with its 81.5-kWh battery pack. The dual-motor configuration in the i4 M50 delivers an impressive 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque, outshining the M3 Competition. BMW’s innovative use of “current-excited” AC synchronous motors instead of traditional rare-earth permanent magnets allows for enhanced control and performance.
During testing, the i4 M50 achieved a swift 0-60 mph sprint of just 3.3 seconds, beating the rear-drive M3 Competition by 0.2 seconds. The electric motors also demonstrated their prowess in rolling start tests, leaving the M3 Competition behind in various speed intervals. However, the M50’s 5063-pound curb weight affected its overall quarter-mile performance, slightly trailing the M3 Competition.
On curvy roads, the i4 M50’s centralized battery mass and lower center of gravity contribute to minimal body roll and precise handling. The car maintains 0.97 g of lateral grip, but its steering lacks some road feel, affecting the driver’s ability to gauge the correct amount of lock for corners. Despite this minor drawback, the M50 remains an engaging and enjoyable drive.
In daily driving scenarios, the i4 M50 impresses with its adaptability and user-friendly features. The adaptive dampers provide comfort when needed, and the advanced screens and head-up display deliver crucial information and connectivity options. In terms of fuel efficiency, the i4 M50 achieved 83 MPGe combined during testing, slightly exceeding the 80 MPGe on its window sticker. While this is commendable, its fast-charging capability falls short compared to some competitors.
The most attractive aspect of the i4 M50 is its price point, making it a rare case among EVs. Starting at $66,895, the i4 M50 is $7100 less expensive than the M3 Competition, making it an appealing choice for performance-minded buyers seeking an electric alternative. Although the base Tesla Model 3 Performance is cheaper, the $7500 tax credit is no longer available for Model 3 buyers.
Overall, the BMW i4 M50 presents a compelling option for those seeking a powerful and thrilling electric vehicle that delivers on performance and value.
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