2026 BMW i4
MSRP: $57,900
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Overview
The 2026 BMW i4 is a compact electric luxury sedan that blends a coupe-like roofline with a practical hatchback layout designed to balance style and everyday usability. BMW offers three trims. The rear-wheel-drive eDrive40 produces 335 hp, the all-wheel-drive xDrive40 delivers 396 hp, and the range-topping M60 generates 593 hp.
Each model uses an 84-kWh battery pack and supports DC fast charging at up to 200 kW. The eDrive40 reaches an estimated range of up to 333 miles on a full charge. A curved dual-screen cockpit running BMW's iDrive 8.5 infotainment system anchors the dashboard, while a suite of standard driver-assistance features supports daily driving. Key rivals include the Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2, and Mercedes-Benz CLA EV.
What's New for 2026?
The 2026 i4 receives updated silicon carbide inverters, which improve efficiency and add roughly 12 to 15 miles of estimated driving range. BMW also renames the previous M50 trim to M60 and increases output by 56 hp, raising total power to 593 hp. Pricing carries over unchanged from the 2025 model year. New options join the catalog, including Glass Controls for interior switchgear. The Parking Assistant Professional Package now adds a dash cam. The Shadowline Package introduces black mirror housings and upgraded brakes. BMW also removes the eDrive35 from the lineup.
Exterior
The BMW i4 all-electric Gran Coupe shares its styling language with the 4 Series Gran Coupe, adopting a coupe-style roofline that sweeps smoothly into a liftback tailgate. Slim LED headlights frame the front fascia, while a matte silver honeycomb kidney grille provides a distinctive visual signature.
The body measures 188.5 inches in length, 72.9 inches in width, and 57.0 inches in height, giving the car a low and athletic stance. Standard 18-inch two-tone wheels appear on the eDrive40 and xDrive40, while the M60 rides on 19-inch wheels with optional 20-inch designs. Frameless doors reinforce the sporty design, and upper trims can include laser rear lights for a sharper lighting signature.
Interior
Inside, the BMW i4 features a curved display that integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch touchscreen running the iDrive 8.5 interface. The system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and BMW's Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard SensaTec upholstery covers the sport seats, while Vernasca leather upgrades the cabin for buyers who prefer a traditional luxury finish.
Waterfall-style ambient lighting flows across the dash and doors, and a flat-bottom steering wheel adds a subtle performance touch. Rear headroom remains tight for taller passengers because of the sloping roofline. The hatchback opens to 10-16.6 cu-ft of cargo space, and the 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench expands that capacity when needed.
Price Range and Best Value Trim
Model | Price |
Base / Best Value Trim: i4 eDrive40 | $57,900 |
Top Trim: i4 M60 | $70,700 |
The i4 eDrive40 at $57,900 delivers the longest driving range at up to 333 miles, along with 335 hp and the full BMW technology suite. Adding the Premium Package ($1,750) brings a heated steering wheel, Harman Kardon audio, and a head-up display, making the 2026 BMW i4's price particularly competitive within the segment.
Specs Overview
Spec | eDrive40 | xDrive40 | M60 |
Power | 335 hp / 317 lb-ft | 396 hp / 443 lb-ft | 593 hp / 586 lb-ft |
Drive | RWD | AWD | AWD |
0-60 mph | 5.5 seconds | 4.9 seconds | 3.6 seconds |
Est. Range | 307-333 miles | 268-287 miles | 232-278 miles |
Battery | 84 kWh | 84 kWh | 84 kWh |
Curb Weight | ~4,680 lbs | ~4,850 lbs | ~5,060 lbs |
Dimensions:
Length: 188.5 in
Width: 72.9 in
Height: 57.0 in
Wheelbase: 112.4 in
Cargo: 10-16.6 cu-ft
Seats: 5
Warranty
Coverage | Duration |
Basic (Bumper-to-Bumper) | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Battery and Drive Unit | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
Corrosion Perforation | 12 years / unlimited miles |
Roadside Assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles |
Free Maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Up to 333 miles of range from the efficient eDrive40
- Engaging driving dynamics faithful to BMW's sporty heritage
- Refined cabin with excellent iDrive 8.5 infotainment
- Practical hatchback layout with split-folding rear seats
- Fast charging at up to 200 kW adds 90 miles in 10 minutes
Cons:
- Limited rear headroom due to the sloping roofline
- 10 cubic feet of cargo trails some competitors
- Premium pricing versus Tesla Model 3 and Ioniq 6
- M60 range drops sharply with 20-inch wheels
- Exterior styling closely mirrors the gas 4 Series
Verdict
The BMW i4 stands among the most balanced electric sedans on sale today. It drives with the composed suspension, responsive steering, and refinement expected from the brand, delivering a familiar BMW character even without a combustion engine. The addition of silicon carbide inverters improves efficiency and increases range without raising cost, which strengthens the car's everyday usability.
The eDrive40 remains the logical choice for most buyers thanks to its long range and smooth rear-wheel-drive dynamics, while the M60 introduces serious acceleration and performance capability. Cargo space stays modest, and the exterior design closely follows the gasoline-powered 4 Series, yet the overall package appeals to drivers who value engagement, premium materials, and a polished electric driving experience.
Competitors
- Tesla Model 3
- Hyundai Ioniq 6
- Polestar 2
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This story was originally published May 8, 2026 at 11:43 AM.