Why buy a used BMW i4?
As the first all-electric gran-coupe, the BMW i4 combines style and performance with zero-emissions driving. Equipped with the latest in technology, the i4 lives up to the German brand's usual characteristics yet introduces a variety of new features to ensure it's an easy car to recommend on the used market.
Used BMW i4 buying guide
Powertrains
As an electric-only model, the powertrain lineup is fairly straightforward when searching for a used BMW i4, with only three choices available:
- eDrive 35: 282bhp, 0 to 60mph in 6.0 seconds and an all-electric range of up to 299 miles WLTP.
- eDrive 40: 335bhp, 0 to 60mph in 5.6 seconds and an all-electric range of up to 365 miles WLTP.
- M50: 537bhp, 0 to 60mph in 3.9 seconds and an all-electric range of up to 318 miles WLTP.
With impressive all-electric driving ranges across the line-up, the entry-level eDrive 35 powertrain is easy to recommend for those looking to enter the electric car market. Still, those that regularly complete long commutes will find the eDrive 40 more appealing thanks to its extended range, while those seeking peak performance will prefer the M50 thanks to its more aggressive setup.
All used BMW i4 examples will come with an automatic gearbox as well as the intelligent eDrive system which combines a high-voltage lithium-ion battery, an electric motor and an intelligent energy management system to offer the most efficient means of driving.
Practicality
Despite its sleek looks and low-slung design, the BMW i4 is still practical enough for the daily lives of most. With plenty of head and leg room for all on board, it delivers comfort as well as performance, while fitting a child seat in the rear seats is no issue, either.
It's one of the more versatile cars in this segment in terms of outright luggage space, too. A 470-litre boot is larger than the likes found in the popular Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3, and you can drop the rear seats in a 40:20:40 split to unlock up to 1,290 litres if required. It doesn't benefit from a 'frunk' unlike many other electric models, though.
All in all, a used i4 will impress in terms of outright space, and with a maximum 1,600kg braked towing capacity, those that tow additional equipment should be covered as well.
Safety
Safety equipment across the BMW i4 range is strong, with the likes of cruise control and a reversing camera coming as standard on all models.
There are additional safety features to consider as you move your way up the range, too. The brand's Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus Package introduce active cruise control, a head-up display and additional cameras amongst other technology to take safety a step further.
The BMW i4 scored a strong four-star rating when it went through Euro NCAP's rigorous safety tests, with an impressive 87% score for both adult and child protection.
Technology
As one of BMW's latest models, there's a plethora of technology to be found when searching for a used i4. Standard equipment is plentiful as is, but there was a range of optional extras when new, so double-check the specification of any vehicles you're considering.
The i4 range starts with the entry-level 'Sport' trim which comes with features such as BMW's live cockpit as well as a large infotainment system with a curved display. 'M Sport' models are typically the most popular option, offering more aggressive styling and further tech, while M50 models are what BMW describe as the ultimate i4, coming equipped with the likes of an electric glass sunroof and an uprated sound system.
Notable extras to look out for when searching the used market for an i4 include a Visibility Pack, which enhances the vehicle's headlight system, and a Comfort Plus Pack that adds a heated steering wheel and electric front seats with a driver memory function.
Different generations of used BMW i4
Having only been introduced in 2021, there's currently only one generation of the BMW i4. With similar looks to the standard 4 Series Gran Coupe, the first generation i4 was the fifth addition to BMW's electric 'i' range and makes for a great alternative to larger electric SUVs such as the iX3 and iX.
Despite having only been on the roads for a short spell, the BMW i4 didn't take long to make an impression and now proves appealing enough to take attention away from traditionally-powered saloons such as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A5 and Jaguar XF.
