The 2025 BMW i4 M50 sDrive represents the ultimate expression of i4 performance, delivering 536 horsepower, supercar-equivalent 3.3-second acceleration, and M-specific tuning at approximately $69,700. This comprehensive guide explores BMW’s most thrilling compact sports sedan, combining extreme performance with practical daily usability.
Design and Exterior
The i4 M50 features distinctive M-specific styling differentiating it from standard variants.
Exterior Dimensions (identical to other i4 variants):
- Length: 4,783 mm (188.5 inches)
- Width: 1,852 mm (72.9 inches)
- Height: 1,448 mm (57 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,856 mm (112.4 inches)
- Ground Clearance: 130 mm (5.1 inches)
- Curb Weight: Approximately 2,095 kg (4,618 lbs) with M equipment
- Drag Coefficient: 0.24 Cd
M-Specific Design Elements
M Sport Exterior Package:
- Distinctive M kidney grille
- M front bumper with unique air intakes
- M rear diffuser
- Exclusive 20-inch M wheels (optional 19-inch available)
- M Sport badging and accents
- Unique paint options (M-exclusive colors available)
Performance and Dual-Motor Powertrain
The M50 features dual motors delivering exceptional performance characteristics.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Motor Configuration: Dual motors (Front PM + rear PMSM)
- Combined Power: 536 hp (400 kW) standard; 563 hp (420 kW) with Sport Boost mode
- Combined Torque: 640 Nm (472 lb-ft) standard; 665 Nm (490 lb-ft) with Sport Boost
- 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph): 3.3-3.7 seconds (depending on launch conditions)
- Top Speed: 225 km/h (140 mph)
- Drive Configuration: Single Rear-Wheel Drive (M50 sDrive) with electronic traction control
- 1/4 Mile: 11.4-11.6 seconds at 120+ mph
- Launch Control: Available for optimal acceleration events
The 536 hp dual-motor system delivers genuine supercar performance, matching or exceeding traditional M performance vehicles. The single rear-wheel-drive configuration prioritizes purity and engagement over maximum traction.
Battery, Range, and Charging
Battery Specifications
Battery Type: Lithium-ion liquid-cooled with advanced thermal management
Total Capacity: 84.3 kWh
Usable Capacity: 80-82 kWh
Architecture: 400V system optimized for performance
EPA Estimated Range: 227-267 miles (365-430 km) depending on wheel configuration
Real-World Range: 200-240 miles in typical mixed driving
The battery capacity remains substantial despite performance orientation, though range reduction versus non-M variants reflects higher power consumption.
Real-World Range Performance
Performance driving dramatically reduces effective range:
- Mixed Driving (Moderate): 300-340 km per charge
- Spirited Driving (Frequent Acceleration): 240-280 km
- Highway at 75 mph: 260-300 km
- Cold Weather (-7°C): 180-220 km with heating
- Track/Aggressive Driving: 150-200 km due to high consumption
Energy consumption varies from 11 kWh/100 km with gentle driving to 35-50 kWh/100 km with aggressive performance driving.
Charging Capabilities
AC Charging (Level 2):
- Maximum Power: 11 kW
- 10-100% Charging Time: Approximately 8 hours
DC Fast Charging:
- Maximum Power: 205 kW
- 10-80% Charging Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes (slightly longer due to thermal management)
- 80-100% Charging Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Charging Cost Estimates:
- Full charge at home: $13.44
- Daily 50-mile commute: $2.15
- Performance driving significantly increases consumption
Interior and Performance Comfort
The M50 interior combines premium luxury with performance-oriented elements.
Seating Configuration
Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
Front Seats: M Sport performance seats with aggressive lateral support
- 10-way power adjustment with multiple memory settings
- Heated and ventilated functionality
- Performance-tuned firmness for body control
- M-specific leather or Alcantara trim
Rear Seats: Premium heated seats with adequate support
- Three-zone climate control
- Independent climate zone management
Premium Interior Appointments:
- M Sport leather throughout
- Carbon fiber trim (optional)
- Aluminum performance accents
- Unique M color combinations
- Premium ambient lighting with M-specific settings
Technology and Performance Features
M Sport Technology
Display System:
- BMW Live Cockpit Professional with dedicated M performance interface
- Real-time power and torque monitoring
- G-force display during acceleration and cornering
- Track mode telemetry recording
Performance Modes:
- Eco Pro: Conservative power management
- Comfort: Balanced performance and efficiency
- Sport: Dynamic suspension and increased power delivery
- Sport Boost: Maximum 563 hp power release
- Track Mode (on compatible track venues): Full traction and stability control optimization
Audio System
M Sport Audio Package:
- 17-speaker premium system
- Dual active subwoofers
- 464W amplifier
- Spatial audio processing
M Performance Features
M Sport Suspension
- Adaptive air suspension with electronic damping
- M Sport-specific tuning for aggressive handling
- Cornering-optimized anti-roll bars
- Dynamic stability enhancement
- Adjustable suspension modes
M Sport Steering
- Variable ratio steering with speed-sensitive assistance
- Quick response for dynamic handling
- Electronic power steering with M-specific tuning
- Enhanced feedback and engagement
M Sport Braking
- High-performance braking system
- Integrated regenerative braking optimization
- Advanced thermal management
- M-badged brake calipers
- Excellent stopping performance
Launch Control and Sport Boost
Launch Control:
- Optimized acceleration from standstill
- Coordinated traction management
- Repeatable performance for multiple launches
Sport Boost Mode:
- Temporary power increase to 563 hp (20 additional hp)
- Temporary torque increase to 665 Nm
- Engaged via vehicle settings
- Thermal management monitors sustained performance
Warranty and Service
M Warranty
- Basic: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Battery: 8 years or 160,000 km
- Powertrain: 8 years or 160,000 km
- M Care Services: Available for extended coverage
Ownership Costs
Insurance
Estimated annual insurance: $1,700-$2,000 (highest of i4 lineup due to performance profile and replacement costs)
5-Year Total: $8,500-$10,000
Charging Costs
- Full charge: $13.44
- Daily 50-mile commute: $2.15
- Performance driving significantly increases costs
- Annual equivalent: $515-$1,000+ depending on driving style
Maintenance Considerations
Performance tires wear faster than standard tires:
- Tire replacement: Premium performance compounds required
- Brake inspection: More frequent maintenance recommended
- Suspension inspection: Annual check-up advisable
5-Year Maintenance Estimate: $2,000-$3,500
Total 5-Year Ownership
- Insurance: $8,500-$10,000
- Charging: $2,575-$5,000
- Maintenance/Tires: $2,000-$3,500
- Registration: $2,000-$3,000
- Total: $15,075-$21,500
Federal tax credits up to $7,500 reduce effective purchase price to $62,200, making ownership costs competitive with traditional M performance vehicles.
Driving Experience
The i4 M50 delivers the most thrilling BMW i4 experience, combining supercar acceleration with daily drivability.
Acceleration and Performance
The 3.3-second 0-60 acceleration is genuinely extraordinary, matching or exceeding many traditional supercars. The 536 hp dual-motor system delivers smooth, linear power throughout the acceleration range. Sport Boost mode provides temporary additional power for special occasions.
The sensation remains addictive through ownership, with responsive power delivery and minimal lag or hesitation.
Handling and Dynamics
The M Sport suspension tuning provides responsive, engaging handling with excellent body control. The adaptive suspension adjusts for varied driving conditions. The single rear-wheel-drive configuration prioritizes driving purity and engagement.
Track Mode further sharpens dynamics, with sport-tuned traction control enabling controlled drifting and aggressive cornering.
Braking and Control
The M Sport braking system provides excellent stopping power integrated with regenerative braking. The system feels responsive and controlled, with good modulation and repeatability.
Comfort and Practicality
Despite extreme performance orientation, the M50 remains practical for daily driving. The five-seat configuration accommodates families, cargo space is adequate for weekend needs, and climate control systems optimize passenger comfort.
Comparison with Competitors
vs. Tesla Model 3 Performance
Tesla Model 3 Performance starts at $54,990—$14,710 cheaper than i4 M50. Tesla offers faster acceleration (2.1 vs. 3.3 seconds 0-60) and longer range. BMW delivers superior interior luxury and more refined driving dynamics.
vs. Porsche Taycan Turbo
Porsche starts at $92,250—$22,550 more than i4 M50. BMW delivers comparable performance at significantly lower cost with better daily practicality.
vs. BMW M440i
Traditional M440i starts around $68,000. The i4 M50 delivers quicker acceleration and zero-emissions performance versus turbocharged alternative.
Pros and Cons
Strengths
✓ Supercar Acceleration: 3.3-second 0-60 matches $100,000+ performance vehicles
✓ M Performance Tuning: Sport-tuned suspension and handling
✓ Exceptional Value: $69,700 for supercar-matching performance
✓ Daily Practicality: Five-seat comfort and practical cargo space
✓ Premium Interior: M Sport luxury appointments
✓ Low Operating Costs: No oil changes, minimal maintenance vs. traditional M cars
✓ Launch Control & Sport Boost: Professional-grade performance features
✓ Over-the-Air Updates: Continuous performance and feature improvements
Considerations
⚠ Reduced Range: 227-267 miles EPA vs. other i4 variants
⚠ Aggressive Tire Wear: Performance tires require frequent replacement
⚠ Firm Suspension: M Sport tuning noticeably firmer than standard i4
⚠ Limited Track Endurance: Brakes and thermal management limit sustained performance
⚠ Premium Price: $17,500 more than eDrive40 variant
⚠ High Insurance: $1,700-$2,000 annually
⚠ RWD Traction: Less traction than xDrive variants in adverse weather
Final Verdict
The BMW i4 M50 sDrive is the best-value performance sedan available, delivering 3.3-second 0-60 acceleration matching traditional supercars at $69,700. The M Sport suspension, braking, and interior appointments provide genuine M-car experience. The five-seat accommodation and practical cargo capacity ensure daily usability.
For performance enthusiasts seeking supercar acceleration with premium interior quality, M-specific tuning, and practical daily versatility, the i4 M50 is an exceptional choice that proves electric vehicles can deliver pure driving engagement without compromise.