The 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 delivers the perfect balance of performance, range, and all-wheel drive capability at approximately $57,500. This comprehensive guide explores BMW’s mid-tier sports sedan, offering responsive dual-motor acceleration with practical daily usability and excellent range.
Design and Exterior
The i4 xDrive40 maintains identical exterior styling to the eDrive40 variant, with visual differentiation coming through wheel selections and optional M Sport packages.
Exterior Dimensions:
- 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 1,980 kg (4,365 lbs) with dual motors
- Drag Coefficient: 0.24 Cd
The refined proportions and sculpted body panels create a sporty, modern aesthetic identical to eDrive40 model.
Performance and Dual-Motor Powertrain
The xDrive40 features dual motors providing responsive acceleration and all-weather capability.
Powertrain Specifications:
- Motor Configuration: Dual motors (Front PMSM + rear PMSM)
- Combined Power: 396 hp (295 kW)
- Combined Torque: 600 Nm (443 lb-ft)
- 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph): 4.9-5.1 seconds
- Top Speed: 200 km/h (124 mph)
- Drive Configuration: All-Wheel Drive with electronic torque distribution
- 1/4 Mile: Approximately 13.1 seconds
The dual-motor setup provides noticeably quicker acceleration than eDrive40, with all-wheel drive delivering superior traction in adverse conditions.
Battery, Range, and Charging
Battery Specifications
Battery Type: Lithium-ion liquid-cooled
Total Capacity: 83.8 kWh
Usable Capacity: 80-82 kWh
Architecture: 400V system
EPA Estimated Range: 268-287 miles (432-462 km) depending on wheel configuration
Real-World Range: 250-270 miles in typical mixed driving
The substantial 83.8 kWh battery provides practical range despite dual-motor weight penalty.
Real-World Range Performance
- Urban/Mixed Driving: 350-390 km per charge
- Highway at 75 mph: 300-330 km
- Cold Weather (-7°C): 240-280 km with heating
- Optimized Highway (55-60 mph): 420+ km possible
Energy efficiency averages approximately 3.2-3.4 km/kWh despite dual-motor setup.
Charging Capabilities
AC Charging (Level 2):
- Maximum Power: 11 kW
- 10-100% Charging Time: Approximately 8 hours
- Range Added Per Hour: Approximately 70 km
DC Fast Charging:
- Maximum Power: 205 kW (on compatible chargers)
- 10-80% Charging Time: Approximately 28-30 minutes
- 80-100% Charging Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Charging Cost Estimates:
- Full charge at home: $13.44
- Daily 50-mile commute: $2.15
- Annual equivalent: $515
Interior and Comfort
The xDrive40 interior matches eDrive40 quality with identical materials and technology integration, with subtle performance-oriented details on M Sport variants.
Seating Configuration
Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
Front Seats: 10-way power with heating and ventilation
Rear Seats: Heated with adequate legroom
Materials: Premium leather or sustainable alternatives
Cabin Technology
- BMW Live Cockpit Professional with 12.3″ driver display and 14.9″ touchscreen
- Natural language voice control
- Gesture recognition
- Premium 17-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Performance Features
M Sport Package Benefits (Optional)
- M Sport suspension with sportier tuning
- M Sport brakes with blue calipers
- M Sport steering with enhanced feedback
- Adaptive suspension with multiple modes
- M-specific interior trim
Warranty and Service
Basic Vehicle Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
Battery Warranty: 8 years or 160,000 km
Powertrain Warranty: 8 years or 160,000 km
Ownership Costs
Insurance
Estimated annual: $1,450-$1,700 (slightly higher than eDrive40 due to AWD system)
5-Year Total: $7,250-$8,500
Charging Costs
- Full charge: $13.44
- Daily 50-mile commute: $2.15
- Annual equivalent: $515
Maintenance
Similar to eDrive40 with no oil changes or transmission service
5-Year Estimate: $1,500-$2,000
Total 5-Year Ownership
- Insurance: $7,250-$8,500
- Charging: $2,575
- Maintenance: $1,500-$2,000
- Registration: $1,500-$2,500
- Total: $12,825-$15,575
Driving Experience
The xDrive40 delivers engaging, responsive driving with excellent all-weather confidence.
Acceleration and Performance
The 396 hp dual-motor system provides quicker 0-60 acceleration (4.9 seconds) than eDrive40. The all-wheel-drive setup distributes torque optimally, providing confident acceleration in varied conditions.
Handling and Dynamics
The dual motors enable torque vectoring for responsive cornering. The AWD system provides traction advantage through corners and in adverse weather.
Comfort and Refinement
The premium interior and advanced suspension deliver excellent comfort. The dual-motor system feels refined and responsive without harshness.
Comparison with Competitors
vs. Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD
Tesla starts at $45,990—$11,510 cheaper than i4 xDrive40. Tesla offers longer range (358 vs. 287 miles) and faster Supercharging. BMW delivers superior interior quality and more refined dynamics.
vs. Audi e-tron GT Quattro
Audi starts at $106,000—$48,500 more expensive. BMW offers better value and more practical daily usability.
Pros and Cons
Strengths
✓ Balanced Performance: 4.9-second 0-60 with all-weather traction
✓ All-Wheel Drive Capability: Superior traction in snow and rain
✓ Excellent Range: 287 miles for daily driving and weekend trips
✓ Premium Interior: Superior materials and craftsmanship
✓ Responsive Handling: Engaging driving dynamics
✓ Dual-Motor Efficiency: Excellent energy management despite added motors
Considerations
⚠ Reduced Range vs. eDrive40: 20-mile EPA range penalty
⚠ Higher Price: $5,300 premium over eDrive40
⚠ Slower Charging: 205 kW vs. 250 kW on newer platforms
⚠ Winter Range Loss: 25-30% typical
Final Verdict
The BMW i4 xDrive40 is the optimal choice for buyers balancing performance, all-weather capability, and practical range. The $5,300 premium over eDrive40 is justified by dual-motor performance and AWD traction benefits. For drivers in cold climates or seeking responsive all-weather acceleration, the xDrive40 is the ideal selection.