BMW i4 M50 is M-Power's first all electric car but is it worthy of the iconic M-badge?

[@antburman]

Straight, direct, no messing about and palpable disappointment noted. Thank you for such passionate and dispassionate reviews both.

[@richardcarter1000]

I agree. I just can't get excited enough to spend my money on an EV. I've even cancelled some magazine subs as bored with them. I can see it will be classics for me in future only.

[@olik136]

@@richardcarter1000 bold of you to assume they will let us drive classic cars in the future :) ... on that note I don't like modern cars very much.. but I don't think the EV part is the reason- for me it is more the overall blandness paired with high prices and short lifecycle

[@bobz1736]

Here here sir 😎

[@richardcarter1000]

@@olik136 fair enough.

[@SteYoung]

Im not taken with BMWs first raft or first draft of EVs. Theres way more to come. Weve just gotta sit tight and wait for round 2 of EVs. Its still way too early for me.

[@helipeek2736]

I still and always will believe Colin Chapman’s mantra is correct when it comes to car design. 2.5 tonnes isn’t a car it’s a lorry.

[@hansbambach4854]

💯

[@superseven7947]

Well said!!

[@williamoakes664]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 Would I dare hazard a guess that you’re also a believer of another statement originating from a similar era : ‘there’s no replacement for displacement’ ?

[@jonathanrabbitt]

I just looked up the specs on the BMW website (the Australian i4 version) and they actually quote maximum permitted axle loads (1140kg/1550kg). Just like a lorry. LOL

[@drj2039]

Its a borrie!

[@razvan0312]

I really don’t appreciate the fake vents, the the kidney grill, and the fact that is shares the same body as the combustion engine, no special ev body, just replacing the engine with a motor, looks like forced electrification to me. For me this car is like “fast fashion”, looks goodish, but has no real place in the world. Excellent video as always, thank you!

[@michealofloinn2539]

I must agree. Fake vents and fake exhaust. I think car designers could do better. They should wait and build a proper M ev from the ground up.

[@razvan0312]

@@michealofloinn2539 you’re 💯 right. The weight penalty probably comes exactly because the electrification was a afterthought

[@theRappinSpree]

The vents aren’t fake

[@razvan0312]

@@theRappinSpree only the ones that go to the wheal arch, but the rest that normally feed air into the radiator/engine compartment are fake, and if it was a ground up ev, those would never exist, not to talk about the totally rubbishy plastic that’s all over

[@jonboyjon1976]

@@razvan0312 Especially when you have the Taycan and the etron, which both seem much better cars.

[@occoppo]

I think this is first time I've heard Harrys disappointed voice, he sounded genuinely let down by the car.

[@occoppo]

@@davecooke4009 a little, but I’m not a massive BMW guy so the bar was set pretty low.

[@KS-gv8jy]

What do you expect car is heavy as a result not nimble which also means poor feed back the range being poor is no surprise and will only get worse the longer you own it hydrogen is the way forward BMW should know this as they tried this before back in the 80s with E30 tourings batteries were to blame then it appears government's and companies around the world get blocked any time hydrogen is brought to the table ,🤔

[@matthewp9015]

@@KS-gv8jy hydrogen is not the answer - it’s too volatile and takes far more energy to produce than electric power. Will only be reserved for large commercial vehicles. All carmakers are abandoning hydrogen.

[@EP-77o]

@@matthewp9015 The infrastructure required to support hydrogen is incredibly complex and nothing like anything we currently have. It’s not that it’s not possible, it’s just that energy is driven by profits and there’s way too much risk. It’s going to have to be electric for now.

[@eggbirdtherooster]

Electric cars are NOT the future and the way forward. More like a Silicon Valley gimmick and more about shifting money. How the hell are we gonna supply them all with electricity in the near future?? Windmills and solar fields?! 😂 And after 10+ years its a total loss cause of the battery’s had its best time. And why does nobody mention the amount of dirty toxic mines in 3rd world country’s where all this lithium is mined with heavy on fossil fueled machinery, and in many cases involving childlabour and exploitation of the local people..?! And dont forget the producing and shipping of those battery’s with tons of Co2 emission! 🤨 All that so we in the west are so called; “green, durable, progressive, CO2 neutral, inclusive, diverse, jobcreating” or what ever totally raped frame and empty worded socialist utopian dream slogan they shove it in theys days… 🤔

[@beatles4sale2007]

BMW with the i3 and i8 had the potential to be a class leader in EV tech (out of the German big three)…fast forward several years they seem hell bent on re-working ICE models, perhaps they can’t afford to do loads of platforms like VW, but coupled with a lot of their new models looking awful anyway, it doesn’t bode well for them.

[@wackrapsatire]

i3 was ahead of the game when launched and is still -overall- one, maybe the leading EV out there. Size, engineering,innovative. No one understood this car so afterall it won´t be produced anymore. People picked it here in germany with the time passing by but no where it could´ve been so it´s done. Tesla bandwagon, giangantic and luxury BEV SUV´s so the complete opposite of what an EV should be.

[@otm646]

The i3 and the i8 were dead in the water from the get go, their carbon composite structure doomed it from the start. They are effectively non reparable vehicles.

[@wackrapsatire]

@@otm646 Not true. Look up the actual construction of the whole body. The vast majority of crashes and accidents do not affect the carbon construction and if they do they´re indeed repairable to some extend. Eitherway, any ordinary car with a steel frame is equally "doomed" at heavy crash.

[@otm646]

@@wackrapsatire I was involved in developing the adhesives used to put that car together, don't attempt to lecture me and how it's assembled. Yes there are repair methods, find me a shop in United States that can do it. Go talk to an insurance adjuster and see how many of these cars actually get repaired vs being totaled.

[@Mr112W]

The i3 and i8 were development cars. They were never the true end goal of the brand, they were both literally made to develop early battery technology and to develop they're "carbon-core" construction that they now use after they acquired their own carbon factory. Also the i3 was never dead in the water, bmw were forced to extend the i3s production after they announced they were taking it off because it was still so popular in some markets, also the i8 was the first affordable battery electric mid engine sports car after the Lafarrari, 918 and P1. They were both pretty good cars for the brand but I understand the frustration they only have 1 pure batteried car... Not that I care, it's bmw, combustion is what they do best

[@andyjones5192]

Every time I see the roads around Harry’s house it just makes me want an old Clio RS fully wrung out going three wheels around the corners….then I wake up in an I40 50M…must have been just a dream.

[@kk.7177]

Me too! Clio and old Royce are, by far, my most favourite cars from Harry's garage ;)

[@MrAndyj007]

lol sooo true

[@matt355]

I have a 197 sport. It's the most fun thing I've ever owned. And it's a 1/4 of the price I've paid for many others.

[@TheophilusPWildbeest]

Hyundai i20N is the modern equivalent, 200bhp, 1190kg, and a limited slip diff.

[@johnrb9397]

That engine bay summarises the whole car perfectly..

[@robertolombardi3698]

A mess

[@BRMCaptChaos]

summarises EV fundamentals. pretends to be better for the environment, pretends to be a sports saloon.

[@stevem2323]

This one or entire EV?

[@leetymcleet6490]

I bet it shreds through its tyres pretty quickly too! That's a lot of mass to lug around a corner at 'enjoyable' speeds.

[@lqr824]

the fact it can reduce torque in nanoseconds, at the first mm of slip, might mean the tires actually last far longer? Starting around 2010 or so even excellent performance tires have had so much range that I'm throwing them away when they hit 5 years old. I haven't actually worn a tire out since the Michelin MXX3's on my Supra Turbo in the 90s. (And the Pilot Sport 2 was a lot softer riding and just as sticky, despite having like 3x the range.)

[@hotrod182]

The EPA range with the 20" wheels is around 230 mi, or about 40 mi less than the 19" wheel option.

[@WarrenF]

This car is a complete afterthought. They didn’t even bother changing the rear bumper, it still has the gaps where the exhaust should be

[@H0rseMac]

It’s the same platform as the 4 series gran coupe? Wtf do you expect lmao.

[@DeeKay1911]

@@H0rseMac Still a lazy afterthought - Gigantic bonnet without any frunk space for cables and a big transmission tunnel is simply not good enough. A cramped cabin because they do not use the benifits of a dedicated electric platform - try to sit in a back seat in this car. I have been a massive BMW man for all my life, but really feel like they have lost it recently - primarily with the train-wreck designs but also the lackluster electric options

[@kraenk12]

Every review so far has said it’s better than a comparable Tesla Model 3.

[@DeeKay1911]

@@kraenk12 Have seen the opposite as well, but still feel like it’s a missed opportunity .. They should have kept the new 4-Series as a completely new dedicated electric developed platform and not a mixed bag like this

[@Rentta]

@@DeeKay1911 A lot of ground up ev's do not have frunk or have extremely small one so not surprising.

[@gunterlauch2264]

I think the biggest problem with this car really is the communication/marketing. Would they have called this an M-lite GT-Weapon, I would not see the problem.

[@zakelwe]

Yep, they put M lipstick on a big fat sow.

[@Tigermoto]

M-lite maybe, light suggests something that it absolutely isn't

[@BHBeckenbauer]

They have… it’s an ‘M Performance’ car, not a full M car

[@V_Dubya]

BMW were ahead of the game with the i3… it’s unforgivable to see they’ve wasted that decade and brought this out as their first M car. Korea are already doing it better than Germany.

[@elliotsimpson1148]

Unfortunately I think The i3 burnt BMWs fingers a bit. It was/is a really clever car just 5 years too early. It was a flop that cost them a lot of money and stalled the “I” projects. I think it has also made them more conservative with their approach. Not wanting to jump in with something extreme again. Despite it probably being what is needed.

[@meestermeesterhastings.3159]

Arse so...

[@andyp7449]

The i3 weighed 1195KG! Not too bad really. I think we have to blame the consumer. They want big brash road dominance machines. No one quotes weight in a review. Apart from Harry that is.

[@hassanger8128]

Korea is just following what the Germans have done. Asians (except for Japan) are copying from their superiors. Deutschland über alles.

[@kraenk12]

Funny how every review so far rated the i4 better than the Model 3. It’s even more efficient. Korea has nothing comparable so far.

[@fecciads8196]

How he removes "engine" cover and the sound of it smashed on the floor just tells everything.

[@bobdavey1195]

I think it was just flung across the garage in despair. The engine bay looks like a complete afterthought

[@Highgear145]

Sounded like those cheap plastic Dollar Store toys

[@TassieLorenzo]

@Josh That's the same as petrol (or heaven forbid diesel) in an ICE sportscar, I don't think that is the problem in itself, as long as the car has good feedback, good dynamics and is an enjoyable drive for hooking up hairpin corners.

[@miamitten1123]

@@Highgear145 that’s not the issue. It plastic. It’s there’s no front boot. No design in the engine layout etc

[@mubblemann]

I think the problem lies with this being built on the existing 4 series platform (a platform not designed to house an electric drivetrain) rather than being a bespoke platform for the BMW i range of cars.

[@chunkymonkey3594]

That's what I was thinking.

[@DeeKay1911]

The massive bonnet without a frunk tells a lot of the story. A big transmission tunnel and a start/stop button - why? Why do you need to turn on a car like this? Why not just put in gear and go?

[@alanjenkins1508]

You do need to make the battery box part of the cars structure to minimise weight. However BMWs are already heavy as seen with the M4 weight. They need to look at every component and make them lighter.

[@nahidrahman]

12:23 that's probably why they've called it an i4 M50 rather than an i4M, the nomenclature suggests its more of an M-lite car (in the same vein as the M340i/M550i/X3M40i/X5M50d etc) rather than a full-fat cojones-out proper M car

[@haeikou]

An update to the M760Li.

[@PyramidHead76]

Another frustrating thing about this car is, you know that the 0-60 figure has been software-hobbled so as not to be quicker than the M4 in a straight line, when the car's probably capable of it.

[@richardchester2148]

Really interesting video as always. Test drove the cheaper sibling to the M50, the e drive 40 M Sport which felt good in the corners (about 180kg lighter than the M50, marginal gains but a gain nonetheless), had enough punch to keep things interesting (but not on the level of the M50) and much better range (real world approx 300 miles on a charge). As such I made the decision to place a tentative order for an M Sport (coming from a B9 S4, I didn't honestly feel I'd be losing out by moving to 2WD). It'd be interesting to see what you make of the 40 M Sport as a comparison to the M50 if you can get hold of one. My impression was that it wasn't trying to be something it's not whereas the M50 perhaps, as you say, is lacking in all of the 'M car' credentials in ICE equivalent vehicles. I'd also be interested in how you think the i4 compares to (different price point I know), the e-tron GT? I was lucky enough to test drive a Vorsprung demo car back in June '21, really impressed with it, but couldn't make the numbers work. There's a part of me that says hang on to the S4 and part of me that says bite the bullet on the more expensive GT. June 2022: As an update, and being careful how I word it, approximately two weeks after signing for the i4 edrive 40 M Sport, a change was made to the terms of the agreement I'd signed for (APR and purchase price went up considerably). As such I've now cancelled my order and have en etron GT coming in August...

[@jc4778]

A great review that highlight all the issues with EV cars for me, range, charge network, and price. And when this is backed up by the opinion that the M4 is just a better car for the same money I’m not ready to take the leap to EV yet, not that I could afford one anyway.

[@antonoat]

I must be getting old, BMW's take on what they imagine we want or need is so far removed from my own view. Two and a quarter tons, I guess it will eat tyres and brakes! Yet another BMW to please their accountants and try and fool the buying public, this fool won't be swayed! Thanks for the review Harry.

[@Punisher9419]

Wouldn't surprise me if you needed new brake pads and tyres every service.

[@anonym3017]

the thing, like literally every other EV, has regenerative braking. just lift off the accelerator and it'll slow down quickly. and regarding the weight. tha's entirely on BMW for using a single platform for both ICEs and EVs.

[@AlbertManiscalco]

@@anonym3017 No they decided they wanted to go with a full size battery. People need to abandon the range issue if they have more than one car. You need a daily electric car to commute, and that doesn’t require a lot of battery, and then you need a fun car for when you want to drive for pleasure. This notion that we need to have every car be a car that does everything needs to be abandoned. SUVs are the car that one gets if they need one car to do it all, but if you can afford to have more than one car then there is no point in having such a big battery to lug around in your daily

[@TheChannel1978]

@@AlbertManiscalco You describe how I like to use cars, but I have significant disposable income and a second or third car. But the majority of people don't have that luxury. EVs must work as a single car. Whatever BMW thought they did with this car, it didn't work unless they were just pandering to the 'I don't care give me the latest expensive M car' market.

[@Andy_Holbrook332]

@@AlbertManiscalco !!?&£!? How “environmentally friendly” is having to have two cars…..??!!!! The worlds gone mad!

[@tassos2011]

I really like that Harry is not hiding any dislikes for any car that he drives. It is us who should decide what car to drive, given that we have all the information - thanks Harry!

[@timhill1348]

Another great video. I am lucky enough to own an i4 M50, and as a daily, I love it! It's extremely comfortable, very fast, the tech is brilliant, and as I am a business owner, the tax benefits just make massive sense. The range seems to be better than Harry's too (perhaps as it's a later car with software upgrades)? However, for my weekends, I own a 991 GTS and a Vantage N400, sports cars. Perhaps they should have named it a BMW i4 50M, and not an M50? It's a brilliant saloon car, but just not a pure M Car.

[@philp7012]

Appreciate the honesty of this review. I think the takeaway is that manufacturers need to make their new EVs stand on their own two feet and not piggy back on company success and history. I think a lot of people hold the M brand dear. I'm sure if it was just an i4 their would be less controversy. Great channel indeed!

[@markymarkreviews]

Yep, I think the step down “40” model is the pick of this range as usefully lighter,RWD and thus more efficient with better range. And still fast enough. EVs this size are just not fun to hustle around on B roads as they are just too heavy and their composure starts to fall apart quite quickly. You can’t beat physics. Again a sad state of affairs for BMW after the i3 and i8, which promised so much more. An EV based on ICE architecture never really works. And still a massive bonnet and no frunk! MM

[@Hali88]

totally agree, the i3 is a really cool car and the i8 looks stunning though I have never driven one. I get queasy just watching that instant pinned into the back of your seat acceleration. Think how much energy it takes to ping 2.3 tonnes of down a straight faster than most supercars, no wonder the range is nowhere near the promised.

[@tomnewham1269]

@@Hali88 electric cars do not have a long range when used on a motor way. It is in stop start driving where electric cars shine as regenerative braking adds considerable amount of energy back into the battery.

[@christianolsson834]

Absolutely. It’s the weight I absolutely hate on cars. Ev or ice. Looks like I will be waiting and keeping my Jag until sub 1700 kg ev sports cars with the same range as my current car hit the market.

[@danpatterson8009]

I think you nailed it. This car is designed to offer electric appeal to traditional M buyers who want something that looks like an M car. With batteries weighing 100x as much as gasoline for the same energy stored, some compromises are inevitable.

[@PhilDiasPJD]

The likes = Harry The dislikes = An electric M4. A wonderful review Harry basically describing what a sad sad day it is for all people that love M cars and all great driving cars of the past.

[@matt355]

It's been coming for ages mate..Sad, but we need to used to it. If you want an M car. Sell a kidney and get one now. They're gonna be untouchable in a few short years.

[@TheChannel1978]

@@matt355 Or maybe petrol will be so hideously expensive that petrol cars won't be that expensive. Time will tell.

[@zakelwe]

You know it is going to be bad when Harry puts the likes first......

[@kingsterre]

The electric M4 is not launched yet (iM4). This is the GT version (double digit M) that Harry drove with 20’ wheels that give -16% range. So many misunderstandings and disturbing facts in this video.

[@tenholiehu7106]

@@kingsterre Yes, the "old fart" Harry was thinking this is a M car 🤣🤣🤣. What an idiot (like many other commenters in this topic). i4 M50 is just M performance GT and it has nothing to do with real sports cars like M4. Here in Scandinavia this will cost around 75k € and real M4 around 155k € so very stupid to even compare these. This was the most ridiculous review I have seen ever, hah hah 😁

[@rafawallaa]

I heard no one complaining about the M760Li. Should be amazing how bmw managed to get basically same specs (weight and power) without a crazy hungry V12 and price tag. Comparing to M4, for example ,as Harry does: in a company in Portugal, it costs DOUBLE of the M50 after tax incentives. M50 you can get in for 62,500€ with good extras, and M4 is around 120.000€ also with some extras. Now that makes it crazy interesting if you put it into perspective.

[@colinw1591]

Enjoyed the review. Think electrifying an ICE platform isn't the way to go in this case. Whilst a Model 3 performance may not have the quality feel, it's over 400kg lighter and as a consequence a significantly better real world range.....

[@Mireaze]

Exactly, Evs arent the problem, its the manufactures refusal to change thats the problem

[@teabagtowers3823]

I'm sorry what? I've been in both and I can tell you now that the standard I4 40 model can easily do 300 miles on a charge. That's the range most people want from an EV like this realistically. That and its interior/build quality is infinitely better than a Model 3. What amazes me is Tesla with the model 3 once you've got a decent spec on it. So say the long range model nice alloys basic autopilot and some nice paint they charge over £55k it is insane. Yet it's interior and build quality would be put to shame by a £30k Skoda that is how shoddy Tesla build quality and luxury is. Realistically all Tesla has over the I4 is the supercharger network and even then with the UK’s expanding charging network its not that big of an advantage. That and I can take or leave autopilot frankly.

[@ruk2023--]

@@teabagtowers3823 You underestimate the draw of the supercharger network. It's not just more available, it's more connected so you always know where the next free charger is and it plans your route around them so you don't get range anxiety. No, I don't own a Tesla, but that's the only electric car I would be looking at in the next couple of years if I were going to electric yet.

[@teabagtowers3823]

@@ruk2023-- Actually one my family members owns an I4 40 it was on first customer cars delivered in the country. It shows pretty much every charger in the vicinity on the map it is really easy to plan a journey with it. It'll even drop a circle around the map to show your range when you are low on battery and which chargers are in the area. That and we have a wallbox at home so we can charge every night and practically every motorway services now has a rapid charger available for journeys. Having switched from a diesel to electric we tried it on a one of those monster +100KWH chargers on a motorway journey a few weeks back took 30 minutes and we had over 80% battery. That and on a full charge it'll do 300 miles don't mess around with the I4 M50 get the I4 40 model it is better the M50. Oh and in nearly every measurable way it is a nicer car than the Model 3. As more and more rapid chargers get put in throughout the country the supercharger network will become less and less of major benefit.

[@maxflight777]

@@teabagtowers3823 You miss the fact that the BMW cannot know if the charger is serviceable or available. The Tesla certainly does. Journey planning is dynamic and trusted. A Tesla is the ONLY BEV you could drive across Europe.

[@Jester-Riddle]

What Harry hasn't realised is that 'proper driving' enjoyment has been banned ... the implementation is just taking effect in stages.

[@maxflight777]

Hard to disagree with your observation.

[@jc4778]

I think you’re probably right…I haven’t seen many EV’s that a real petrol head even if they can be converted would really want. As a means for getting from A to B they probably work but every review of a EV leaves me feeling uninspired. Unless crazy money is being spent.

[@obfuscator]

I remember the times when one would wait in anticipation of new M to be revealed.

[@matthewp9015]

This isn’t really a “true” M car though in the same way a M440 is not an M4.

[@alechall7082]

For that reason, used M2s might be something to pay attention to since the last generation peaked in design, like the mk7 GTI, imo. Then there are cars that are completely dead like the STI and Veloster N. Now is a great time to buy a future classic.

[@jonnowocky8179]

how does my 2017 BMW i3 comprehensively outperform this as a successful exercise in almost every way? It outperforms it’s quoted mileage every trip, still manages to be really fun to drive, has barely any less space inside, has more innovation and more carbon (carbon chassis!).

[@TheChannel1978]

Shh, the new car is always better, remember?

[@arthurdardalis]

@Harry's garage Harry, you've hit the nail on the head. First, pathetic range, second, an M-car that weighs 2.3 tons is most definitely not M-inspired (probably not even designed by the Motosport division). I suspect its just a "trim level'. Great review, I always enjoy your down to earth manner. Looking forward to the 930 European trip!

[@pxidr]

The Tesla 3 Performance is 1850kg (similar performance, range, AWD). BMW really needs to make efforts on the weight of its EVs.

[@TheChannel1978]

Probably down to battery tech, Tesla has a head-start because it started when other manufacturers were still sleeping

[@astradala1845]

I’d probs favour a BMW vs Tesla. Better build quality

[@pxidr]

@@astradala1845 No questions about the build quality, BMW is superior. But still, doesn't justifies a 400kg difference.

[@alanharris2799]

The trouble is, M cars evoke a certain feeling and they always have. It’s about the absolute best that BMW can pull together to give the dynamic and engaging performance that enthusiasts demand. Sadly, I feel that we are never going to see the likes of the real M cars again because BMW have to work in these new guidelines. Electric power is years off being able to excite that thing that us petrol heads enjoy about driving. Until they can find a way to hide the battery weight they will be heavy and compromised. Let’s be honest, the government don’t want people to enjoy driving!

[@identicloak]

There are two types of cars from the "M" division - the proper M car like M3, M4, M5 etc, and the "M Performance" models like M340i, M550i, X3 M40i. i4 M50 is a M Performance model. Just like comparing ICE M340i with M3 - there is no comparison. If you buy a M340i and expect it to perform like a M3, you WILL BE disappointed. Maybe there will be a real M i4 and it will probably be called i4M. Until then, there is no point expecting i4 M50 to perform like a real M car.

[@alanharris2799]

@@identicloak BMW are marketing this as “the first electric M car”, it isn’t (as Harry states) M performance isn’t (and never has been) an M car. It’s a halfway house between M-Sport badged cars and proper M cars for those that don’t have the budget for a proper M car. While the M Performance have some of the M division magic, they really are not a thoroughbred like the proper M cars are.

[@KS-gv8jy]

Couldn't agree with you more hydrogen is a good compromise but keeps getting blocked Japan seems to be the only country I know of who has put serious effort in to it BMW made a 7H good effort but again no support from governments or companies

[@cbrboy76]

Well said. People just drive to get to places, people dont enjoy the act of driving anymore and that makes it easier for the goverments to restrict vehicles in the future.

[@kingsterre]

@@alanharris2799 M car is all cars with an M. i4 M50 is a two digit M just as X5 M50 or X6 M50. There are obviously some people that want to. compare different things to get headlines

[@ajpdaniels]

I dread to think what happens if something that heavy hits me in my MX-5... I know batteries are heavy but I miss the efficiency of lightweight construction and the dynamics you get with it

[@adogmcdizzle]

Drive like everyone else is trying to kill you.

[@gulfstream7235]

No need to worry about articulated lorries so lol

[@kipsome45]

@C J B And don’t forget to give an extra wide berth for EV SUV drivers!

[@waynesimpson2074]

Yup, from experience its life changing when 1.8 tonnes of SUV piles into the back of a stationary 1 tonne of MX5.

[@TheChannel1978]

Our beloved old classic cars are not a good choice for long drives or drives on roads that are sketchy. I live in New Zealand with highways without median barriers in some places and when I take out my S2000 I'm aware of that. I love how my S2000 handles but for long trips I look forward to driving my modern daily, a Mini Countryman Cooper S. Gotto take the right car for the journey!

[@updlate4756]

The range quoted on the site is for the i4 M50 with the smaller 19" wheels with 245/255 staggered width . The car you're driving has the high performance tire package with 20" 255/285 width wheels/tires, stickier rubber, rear spoiler, and flares on the wheel arches. The website should show a pretty substantial range decline on the wheel options page for that wheel/tires set. That option increases rolling resistance and drag. You should always expect to see range loss on the highway at 70 mph versus WLTP range rating. The weight is certainly an issue in this car, which is why I think a lot of people seem to like the i4 40 more than then i4 M50. The reason the model 3 performance gets better efficiency is because it's using 235/235 width wheels, I'm guessing smaller brake rotors, it's slightly more aerodynamic, and it weighs quite a bit less. The lower weight is a factor of them using far more aluminum, using far less noise insulation, and using lower quality interior furnishings. I imagine BMW is using a lot more steel; just like they do in the ICE 4 series. With aluminum prices skyrocketing, this is probably intentional to keep their manufacturing costs down long term.

[@joshualewis3337]

The body of the Model 3 is largely steel. The doors, hood, fenders, and some of the rear end are Aluminium. I’d be shocked if all these parts are steel on the i4. I don’t think you can attribute the Model 3s ~450 kg weight advantage to some material choices, insulation, and interior trim. It’s the big heavy bits. Motors, inverters, batteries, power electronics, electrical system, thermal management system, and the integration of the whole car are why the Model 3 Performance is so much lighter than the i4 M50. In fact the Model 3 Performance, at 1836 kg, is lighter than an ICE BMW M3 AWD (1855 kg). So I don’t buy Harry’s conclusion that “well, if BMW are struggling, what hope have we got”. The fact is BMW’s ICE cars have gotten ridiculously heavy and then they’ve just swapped out to a heavier propulsion system. They need a clean sheet design if they want to lead the way on weight again.

[@TheChannel1978]

@@joshualewis3337 I'm not sure if they want to 'lead the way' again if they are still selling enough of these low effort cars as is. BMW seem to be leaning on their past laurels. And I think some of that is fine as you cannot push on every project but it's a fine line, I'm not sure they realise how far behind they are behind Tesla for range. Exaggerating their range vs real world is telling.

[@mattydsmith]

Would be interested in your opinion of the single motor version, if you get the chance. It’s a lot lighter, and seems like the one to go for.

[@GazVanDyk]

I like your honest view of this car. It’s a fancy electric BMW that will sell to the masses but not a true enthusiast M Car.

[@Gorbyrev]

Well done for matching your jumper to the seatbelts! That is one heavy machine! The M-Sport electric sound reminds me of an old tram.

[@mrc7966]

I don't think I'm an automotive enthusiast anymore. I'm 36 and have loved cars all my life, I used to eagerly anticipate each new release...over the last few years nothing new has interested me, in fact I don't think I have much interested owning anything much made after about 2010.

[@TassieLorenzo]

2000's is peak ICE car for the most part! 🙂 There are still *some* wailing naturally aspirated engines for sale brand new, but not all that many anymore.

[@EddieLeLievre]

Interesting review - thank you. I remember seeing an M1 on the cover of Motor and was blown away by the looks; I can't get used to BMW's current design - to me it looks ugly (especially in matt finish) but I suppose we get used to things. The thing that surprised me (not in a good way) was the bracing once that front cover was removed (at 4:17) - it looks like someone grabbed some square section tube from B&Q and lashed it together - obviously not designed to be on show.

[@judih.8754]

I noticed that too about the bracing. What we're they thinking? Obviously a cost saving area.

[@marcryvon]

" but I suppose we get used to things." Well not for me. Plain and simple, that "thing" is ugly. Matt paint included !

[@buggerlugz6753]

Just think if they'd put the electric motor in an M1 body shell eh............

[@TheEarlofK]

It strikes me that the technology is going up a blind alley with electric powered cars if they have to produce vehicles of such enormous weight; not only do they mean that accidents will involve huge mass meeting huge mass, with all the negative consequences that involves, I hardly think the large batteries being used are particularly green. I think in a few years we're going to find that hydrogen-powered vehicles, or some other biofuel, are going to be the way forward.

[@herrlurch4290]

They are mainly so heavy because it's hard(er) to make a car light. Also this is not a purpose built EV, which again, makes it heavier. A Tesla Model 3 LR has about the same battery size, power and is also a 5 seater, yet is almost 400kg lighter and not in any way designed to be a sports car. You can assume that the whole power train ( battery, motors, etc. ) weighs about 600kg. The real problem is that modern cars get bigger and bigger and thus much heavier. Also it's an M car. Why can't it use carbon in meaningful ways, have light bucket seats, etc.? Look how much lighter cars were even just 20 years ago! I you were to build a sports EV from the ground up, you could fairly easily get it below 1700kg and with a bit more engineering and focus under 1500kg. It's just a question how important this is to the average buyer. And of course loosing 500kg of metal, leather and plastic makes your car much more environmentally friendly. And if we're talking about a Cayman/Elise type of car you could easily get it under 1300kg if you make it small and simple

[@sr20trx]

The way I see it atm is just have an EV as a daily, treat it as such and have an ICE car as your fun/ weekend car. I have Tesla M3 LR with Acceleration Boost as my daily and its a great one at that, it cost about 80k AUD which is almost half the price of this M50, is quicker to 100, plus has a heap more range. With the savings over the M50 you could have one hell of a fun ICE weekend car to go with it.

[@Neojhun]

Your Mod3 is 400kg lighter than the BMW.

[@sr20trx]

@@Neojhun yep. Beauty of being a dedicated EV platform, lighter more efficient, front trunk, just as quick with less power, basically a better EV at being an EV. If you want an fun performance car at this point in time buy the ICE equivalent, not the EV version.

[@Neojhun]

@@sr20trx The one thing BEVs can not do yet is Light weight 1.3 Tonnes or lower while having plenty of range. But that is a niche product.

[@DoctorRazzArea4]

Harry thank you so much for your youtube channel. Sometimes I find it hard to understand society these days, and your videos provide me an escape from the confusing world that I live in. And now I get to look forward to Tyrells's channel too, what a treat! Thanks again! I mean it when I say that your videos help make life worth living

[@Yoni5T]

Harry’s A legendary reviewer but I’m very disappointed in the negative tone here. Harping on the fact that the car is heavy and offering up tropes like “it’s not a real M” I mean we all know EV‘s are much heavier. And quite frankly and EV-M is going to be different , Drive different and feel different than an ICE M. That’s reality, just have to deal with it. Also stating information about the range of the vehicle. Common sense should tell you there’s a range differential in a 20” vs 19” wheelbase, why would BMW have to specifically “Tell” A legendary reviewer like Harry that there is a difference between 20 vs 19 in range. I think this review brought up some excellent points about opportunity to improve but failed to reinforce the positives and as mentioned, harped and reinforced on some unfortunate tropes about EV’s in general and use it to denigrate an amazing EV. EVs are heavy and heavier why would you a legendary reviewer again fail to recognize the obvious and focus on the weight as opposed to reinforcing the fact that BMW has adaptive suspension, real hands free traffic assistant, really good laser light tech, Apple and Android integration, instrument cluster, a HUD that’s actually useful, leather and a host of other things you just cat get on those other cars. It’s sad how the popularity of Harry isn’t used for good and rather leading the followers to a “me too” cult like level of un-intuitive thought process merely supporting. Either way freedom of speech protects whatever and whoever (to a degree) I just feel your representation fell short and doesn’t accurately reflect the true experience FROM AN EV perspective. Here’s another perspective. I’m sure there will be some haters out there but hey everyone has the right: There seem to be 4 types of reviewers (legendary Harry un-included in some of these harsh tones but nonetheless still not wholly innocent of unbiased overtones in a review… Mea culpa): - Those that think M cars must compare to single digit M cars. They are just ignorant, uninformed or want to get massive likes from Tesla- and ICE car fans - The ones that love ICE cars, especially exhaust sounds and light race track cars such as M3, M4. They cannot get out of their head that the i4 M50 can behave different and has other benefits that may actually be far superior and sometimes different or perceived as “inferior“ to some ICE vehicles but can’t always be directly compared because an EV will never perform like an ICE. - The reviewers that are fan of EV cars, especially the low quality and lightweight iPads with wheels. Those cannot imagine other EV cars having other features and benefits than Tesla. They must be the same. Quality and comfort is not important to that reviewer - only numbers - Reviewers that start reviewing with no specific expectations. That try to understand what needs and demand the i4 and it’s bigger brother M50 actually meets in the market. As I mentioned it’s a free world and I’m sure the haters will hop on but this needed to be stated. :) thx all

[@TassieLorenzo]

"real hands free traffic assistant, really good laser light tech, Apple and Android integration, instrument cluster, a HUD that’s actually useful, leather and a host of other things you just cat get on those other cars" Harry's Garage viewers don't care about any of that, we care about steering feel, steering response, chassis dynamics, lively handling etc. "They cannot get out of their head that the i4 M50 can behave different" We appreciate that, silent is fine, that's no problem. But that doesn't mean that the sporty EV (sportscar, saloon, hot hatch... whatever it happens to be) should be inferior for getting stuck in and hooking up hairpin bends. "but can’t always be directly compared because an EV will never perform like an ICE. " Well that's no good!!! Hopefully that is not the case and when the electric MX-5s, electric Honda 2-seat roadsters and so forth come along, they WILL be agile and WILL be fun to drive along your favourite mountain road just like the ICE equivalent.

[@edwarddelderfield]

Independent motor journalism lives on this channel. Superb as always.

[@qubitser]

Since I saw the simple and clean dashboard of the Bugatti I really can’t be bothered with the iPad dashboards all cars seem to have these days.

[@Kefuddle]

The i4 Msport is looking like the sweet spot. RWD with much much greater range and an arguably more usable 5+ secs 0-60.

[@stubones]

👍 In the real world range is more important than 0-60 in 2.5s. If I had to have an EV I’d rather have 350hp and 450+ miles of range than 1000hp and 300 miles.

[@Rob6020]

As a Tesla Model 3 Performance owner this offering from BMW carries a confusing premium for less car. Not really a serious contender.

[@davesax11]

In the US after rebates and recent Tesla price increases, not that big a difference in price for what most consider a better car.

[@wolfiestreet6899]

This video was brought to you by Tesla.... What we've really seen is the growth of real serious competition and now the mighty Musk PR guns are coming out.

[@olliemorgan974]

Very interesting to hear your thoughts on this Harry, great video! I like to think I'm fairly open minded about the future of cars, but the current trajectory of BMW is depressing at times. They seem to have completely lost touch with what the brand was built on, and I just struggle to get excited about many of their latest models. This i4 M50 doesn't seem to change anything. The weight is ridiculous and it just seems like a minimal effort marketing strategy in some ways. Hopefully they can build some interesting so-called electric M cars in the future, but this does not seem to be a great start.

[@paid2getdirty1]

Losing their mojo like Peugeot did in the mid to late 90's. The best days for personal transportation are coming to an end unless you ride a motorcycle. The car user is rapidly becoming the scurge of soceity in many countries.

[@TheChannel1978]

@@paid2getdirty1 Good point about motor cycles. I never got my license for self protection but you are right about the scurge thing. Being a car owner is now akin to being a smoker.

[@Banditmanuk]

@@paid2getdirty1 As a rider and operator of a motorcycle channel I agree at the moment but the writing is on the wall for us two wheeled riders. Anti tampering, speed limiting and auto data (speed) collection tech is around the corner. Then you look at every great motorcycle road, lower limits ( Germany even bans motorcycles on some roads) cameras, noise cameras.

[@michaelsummerell8618]

£63k for a car with 180 miles of usable range, when you're driving relatively sensibly. Next...

[@niceviewoverthere4463]

Thanks. I'd like to see it once they've put the top coat on the paintwork - unless that would make it too heavy of course.

[@stubones]

The M badge is M performance only. It’s not an M car. 👍

[@SonnyFastSpeed]

That reminded me of the Black Badge Rolls Royce. More everything like Luxury etc. But he spent a shocking amount of money on gasoline and maintenance. Quality is not the same thing as a global brand.

[@AleksandrHalas]

I'm a little disappointed because I was waiting for a video about your trip in a red Porsche!!! Hoping your Easter is full of the sweetest things in life! Wishing you all the love and happiness that only Easter can bring. Have a joyous celebration with your family!

[@kingoneeyed3433]

Just returned from a 500 round trip and two things I noticed were every charger at the services was being used with others waiting and the slowest cars on the motorway were electric cars trying desperately to save a little range.

[@MrBaskevin]

In the UK?

[@robertcook2572]

@@MrBaskevin No, Azerbaijan

[@tris7]

and how much did your 500 miles journey cost? I did a journey from Northamptonshire to Scotland in a Mini electric and it cost me £40. The issue is manufacturers chasing range when the battery tech isn’t there. Bigger batteries are great, but the added weight reduces the efficiency of the vehicle, the driving enjoyment, the sustainability and makes the things too expensive. Until solid state batteries are the norm, small is the way to go.

[@kingoneeyed3433]

@@tris7 We took the wifes new Yaris hybrid so the cost would have been minimal but the cost of the car was £21,500 and your electric Mini was around the £30,000 mark so you're nearly £10,000 down before you start. More important was the time factor and I just don't want to make a 4.5 hour journey take 9 hours, Ok 9's a bit of a stretch but you get my point.

[@ericfitzgerald9139]

In the US anyways, the M-lite cars are just the old bigger engined models with a standard sport pack; the old 135i, 340i, 550i etc. They were never full bore M models, just like this i4 M50 isn’t. Think of it as an ‘EV’ M440i Gran Coupe, and it makes way more sense than an EV M4 Competition competitor.

[@joemartino6976]

The reviews on the RWD/single engine i4 have been universally good, many suggesting that the lower cost version of the BMW is the smarter choice versus the M50.

[@davesax11]

Only where you don't want AWD - which you do if you have much adverse weather.

[@robinhosleftfoot]

The lesser models are usually the sweet spots in many manufacturers ranges

[@fireboarder112]

If you bring the 40 to the same level (wheels, interior, driving assistance, sound system) as the m50, there is only a €5000 difference (Germany, August 2024). So I chose the m50 because of 4wd and 45km/h more topspeed, which is quite important for me as I have to cover ~400km to the alps to go skiing. 😊

[@simonyapp]

2.5miles per kWh! Thats thirsty! And over 2 tons ! A Tesla M3 is 1645kg to 1730kg and gets around 4 miles per kWh or better with amazing charging options and performance.

[@rossfripp4503]

Isn't this an "M-Lite", like the M340i, for example? Not a full M car, which I assume would be called something like the i4M, or something.

[@harrysgarage]

Apparently not, BMW are marketing it as the first BMW EV produced by the fabled M-Power division. Maybe they'll backtrack over time and do a proper M car in a few years time. But right now, this car is the product of M.

[@lowfinger]

This is true, however BMW have shifted things, when you go to the M models in the range, that used to include only true M cars, they now list the M-Lite's in the same category. e.g. M340i used to be top of the standard range, now lists in the M car section, I really don't like the shift, dilutes the brand one step further. I think the shift is to better match with their competitors, e.g. S5, RS5. C43, C63. Even the M340D lists as an M model in the M car section !

[@bobak4843]

@@harrysgarage - be smarter than the marketing....read interviews with those in the M Division, they say it themselves. Don't be scared of some critical thinking.

[@recruitmentwebsites]

Thank you for calling out an electric car in this way Harry, they are not what they claim to be on so many levels.

[@bullittuk]

Tesla owners would beg to differ

[@ronanmc2112]

The estate fencing is looking good.

[@sheldonv8]

The only nice looking thing in the video. 😀

[@malcolmhardwick4258]

Its a bit like Mercedes throwing the AMG badge around everywhere, where in the end it means less.

[@ciarand2823]

that shouldn't have been allowed to happen, as a petrolhead im starting to envisage a time where I, and others like me will identify as former car enthusiasts 😢 I also worry for the generation coming next who will have at their disposal, as much speed and performance as they could want (and perhaps more than many can actually use) without any of the feel and feedback that once taught a keen driver where the limit was and how close to it they were. I also notice they made no reference to the once hallowed 50/50 weight distribution here, how priorities have changed. It's s definitely an ill thought out compound of characteristics for any roadworthy machine to have, and shame on M division for putting their name to this beast.

[@TheChannel1978]

Car enthusiast will be synonymous with 'smoker'. Get used to it and wear it as a badge. I'm sick and tired of society relabeling what is desired and not. Live and let live I say!

[@BarryMakariou]

Remember how much work was involved in taking pictures with film cameras, now even your phone delivers great results. The car industry is going through the same journey.

[@bobwilson7384]

Nicely said about “M” car dynamics

[@b52cardiff27]

Harry wasn't paying attention @ 7 minutes 45 seconds. The road said "unsuitable for HEAVY goods vehicles. " ;)

[@tace44]

Hi Harry, looks like the ultimate contradiction that an electric sports car is a one trick pony. Would you agree? Excellent video as usual, thank you 😊 🙏

[@johnsmith1474]

Calling this a sports car is just dumb.

[@on_wheels_80]

This is a no trick pony.

[@davidmorello6031]

I enjoyed your take on this vehicle. Keeping it real. I respect that and it's what I have come to expect from your reviews. Well said.

[@KonstantinosKandiliotis]

...."It's the end of the world as we know it.." (And I DON'T feel fine)....

[@matt355]

A cheeky GR Corolla in the back ground. I grew up on Evo in the 90's and 2000's. You're a Legend Harry, love your work. Thanks mate.

[@Duncangafney1]

I still cannot get my head around the whole range thing, they say over 300 miles, you drive it gently and it's 180 max.. how on earth do they get away with the BS range crud

[@GAmbrose]

Unfortunately we are stuck with WLTP figures which are a complete fantasy. The EPA figures in USA are much more accurate (though still not perfect) Also the dash showed it was 7°C and batteries perform a lot worse in cold weather. If he did the same drive on a warm spring day or hot summer day he would get another 50 miles of range out of it.

[@Mireaze]

You could probably get over 300 miles if it wasnt freezing, and you werent bombing it down a motorway all day

[@kingsterre]

because he drives on the 868M wheels that have -16% range compared to standard 18’ and 19’ wheels - and it is so bad not to mention it. Probably he is unaware of it. As he is unaware that the rear carbon spoiler is an option for the M50 as well as for the 2wd eDrive40.

[@GAmbrose]

@@kingsterre It's listed in the optional extras paperwork that he shows and mentions on the video, so I'm sure he is aware of the carbon spoiler thing. Most people don't realise larger wheels = less range though.

[@tiguanman1170]

It says up to 318 so 200 is up to 318. It means that in the real world on the motorway you'll be done after 2.5 hours. With charging limits you'll not do more than 400 miles in a day and that's poor at £80k. I've easily done 600 in a day in my £1k Mondeo.

[@professorcalculus5315]

The sound when Harry chucks away the plastic engine cover sums this car up in a nutshell.

[@ericokompatzki7110]

So the i4 m50 accelerates slower than a Mach-E GT, has less range in the real world and weights 20kg more? Goes to show the disadvantages of adapting an ICU platform electric, I guess

[@matthewp9015]

BMW’s CLAR platform was designed to accommodate both ICE and EV power trains. Also worth noting the Mustang Mach-E is not on a dedicated EV platform either, Ford hasn’t got round to designing one yet. It’s a heavily modified ICE platform shared with the Escape.

[@ericokompatzki7110]

@@matthewp9015 True, I had forgotten about that. But nonetheless, the point I was trying to make is that BMW failed to deliver a competitive EV, mostly because they couldn't fit a larger battery (about 15kWh difference, either due to cost or packaging, presumably), yet is slightly heavier.

[@berwhaletheavenger]

M for Marketing. The proper M division has long gone.

[@nightnomad635]

Opening shot flinging it into Easter Sunday 😂

[@PG-ji6vq]

Maybe ‘M’ stands for Miele, as under the bonnet it looks like the inside of a washing machine.

[@Kelveron]

By all accounts, the cheaper version, the i4 eDrive40, which is quite a bit lighter and RWD, is a much better drive than the i4 M50!

[@mubblemann]

Have you driven both?

[@ghostridertom]

@@mubblemann yes. The 40 is a better car. But I would not buy any of those two. Range is strange, feels very generic to drive and sterile but heavy :-(. Almost unusable rear seats also.

[@Kelveron]

@@mubblemann No I haven't, which is why I said by all accounts, for example this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYXboIN5bbljqaM

[@PietroShitzberg]

@@mubblemann you were expecting him to not have driven both, weren’t you.

[@matthewp9015]

@@PietroShitzberg to be fair, the OP has not yet answered the question.. (not saying they’re wrong though)

[@peartreecameras5662]

Nice review as always. I took delivery of a new F-Pace SVR in December and occasionally wonder whether I should’ve gone ‘performance’ electric. Reviews like this make me realise I made the right choice. I’m yet to see an electric car that doesn’t leave me utterly cold - despite being fast and technically brilliant. The V8 is dead, long live the V8.

[@waveman1500]

What is the purpose of a high-powered EV sports sedan? If you want to reduce your CO2 emissions, this is not the way to do it. Too heavy and too much performance, it is consuming a lot more energy than a lower-powered EV. If you don't care about CO2 but you want a sports car, then just buy a petrol powered sports car! You can't really have it both ways.

[@steveberridge4648]

Spot on Harry - I’m a bmw owner and fan but this is a poor effort. 300 kg heavier than the Tesla model 3 equivalent!! BMW need to do better. For now I’ll stick to my 8 year old diesel which weighs only 1500kg and does over 600 miles between refills.

[@-DC-]

And takes 5 minutes to refill from empty, EV's are far from useable for alot of people.

[@mrfrosty42]

Really serves to reinforce my experiences with an EV - small urban transport aside, they are a complete waste of time and effort - a real range of less than 200 miles and no doubt without the creature comforts of seat heaters, heated screens, night time lighting etc. probably makes it a 160 mile realistic range if you use any of the performance as well. Couple of years down the road and that range will be further compromised too. I think these things are to be avoided for at least another 10 years or more. The UK infrastructure is pitiful too.

[@mddah01]

I am surprised Harry gave you a like for such a broadly dismissive comment. After 70,000 km in a 2019 Tesla Model 3 performance and up to 1000 km trips using the supercharger network I disagree. Its the best car I have owned (after an Audi S4 and Golf R) and still has a genuine 440 km range on motorways, is comfortable and very cheap to run and maintain. It's 400 kg lighter than the BMW reviewed here with very similar straight line performance and better handling. Harry's review of the Model 3P was positive.

[@mddah01]

@@NCB583 In warm dry conditions (I live in NSW) 440 km is comfortably achievable - I do that round trip regularly (it's a 75 kWh battery). I realise in a northern winter the figures will change. But from memory, Richard Symonds has achieved around 480 km in the UK in motorway conditions ( I believe in summer) but that's absolute maximum with the battery dead. Like most car owners I don't tow a trailer very often so that's a very different argument. I rent or borrow for that. I don't think a car that costs very little to run (80% charged off excess roof top solar in my case) and maintain (no dealer visit in 3 years/ 70,000 km - on original tyres) becomes 'useless' because of its diminished towing range.

[@TheChannel1978]

Buying any EV that doesn't have an established charger network is a bad idea unless the owner can home charge. Simple as that. The good news is many owners can home charge, but not those that live in high-density living

[@mddah01]

@@NCB583 Points taken. I think we are going to see greater ranges from EVs in the future.

[@eliofernandes565]

Model 3 Long Range owner for 2.5y here. Still in shock every time I drive the car with the pedal down. Just did 360km at 120km/h with auto pilot on and AC always on. Went from a 200hp Bmw 3 series to the Tesla and it was like going from a toy car to a space rocket.

[@michaelfk2548]

Great honest opinion .....refreshing !...

[@naashuman5503]

Here is South Africa 🇿🇦 electric vehicles is still a rumor. Long live the internal combustion engine 💪🏻

[@DaveP668]

It took about 50 years for ICE to develop to the point of being acceptable, 1900 to 1950. Wars affected this pace, but EVs will follow a similar development trajectory. We are about ten years in, give it another 20.

[@marino4691]

those carbon clip-on parts are ridiculous...

[@PepperSnek]

The front grille should be blurred.

[@Zandoerlenaar]

I really wonder what you think about the standard I4, I have seen reviews of people suggesting that is actually a lot more fun dynamically!

[@ChevyBM]

The best thing with this car is that it looks like a normal car not like a lot of other electric vehicles that look like ET traveled to earth in it. But the sound is missing.... I love to hear the motor sound and feel the motor living, humming and vibrating when I drive, both me and my wife have V8 motors in our cars and every time when I give a bit more gas I get a smile on my face. For me it will be very hard to go to electric cars.

[@ThisIsMTH]

I love BMW, but this is simply not good enough. It stinks of being rushed into this and forcing a performance electric car out before it’s really ready. Why are electric BMWs and Mercedes SO heavy? Yes, batteries are heavy, but the Model 3 is significantly lighter than equivalents.

[@victorfrombcn]

Have you seen a BMW and Tesla inside? There’s so many features and options missing on a Tesla… A full set HUD is heavy, leather is heavy, retractable sunroof with its motors the same… None of that is present in a Tesla.

[@CharlieStyr]

It's an M car in the style of the M440i, which is the actual comparison here. I don't think BMW are doing themselves any favours with their wording but I also think Harry knows better!

[@zodgzod]

The 20" wheels reduce the range. I ordered mine with 19" for that reason.

[@misterdog7]

And you'll get 3 miles extra lol

[@nickf31]

@@misterdog7 Well actually it is relevant. The quoted range with 18" and 19" is far more than 20". About 318m vs. 266m. Real world will be less in each case but even so, it seems an odd choice to go for 20" given the difference. Harry appears not to have known about this either

[@PaulBriden]

All subjective, but I think comparing an electric car with an internal combustion engined car is like comparing apples with oranges, or steam locomotives with Diesel locomotives. Battery cars whatever model they are, due to the weight of their power source are heavier than their internal combustion equivalent's. They are what they are. The only issue I have with this car is the range, I agree, it is just not good enough. It is a shame that BMW did not install a low power engine mode so the electric motors comsume a lot less power making the range much more in line with the cars price. As you are sure aware people do not cane these cars all the time. A great review, thank you for posting.

[@reinhardtkk]

Thanks for the honest review. I’m getting more skeptical of the electric revolution by the day. It take more energy to move more mass …period.

[@johnsim3722]

At the start I was thinking this is an option against the Porsche Taycan. By the end of the video I realised it isn't. A friend has one, and his range is better than this i4 M50, and his is the shorter range model! Plus the car's estimates on range, according to him, is almost perfect. You get the range that it state when you switch on the car (although it does vary between hot and cold days - batteries need warming). And the Taycan is lighter too. But the big thing about electric cars, he's realised, isn't range but recharging speed. If you can recharge in a few minutes it doesn't really matter as the car will always figure out where to charge for you. His can charge at over 200kW, the best he'd done is 158kW. Compare that with home chargers at 7kW.

[@s.kxx1956]

I love how all electric cars sound like their bearings or something is worn !

[@theRappinSpree]

Why no criticism of the weight when reviewing the Taycan 4S or E tron GT?

[@ReclusiveDuck]

I suppose it's worthy of an M badge if BMW are planning to enter truck racing.

[@matthewp9015]

They already put the M badge on the X7…

[@oeiras99]

My wife drives a BMW 1 ser. and loves it. I drive a 911 GTS, ditto. When I first saw the M50 I liked the look and decided that it would be my first EV when and if I sold the Porsche. Then a few weeks ago I drove both the i4 models and was underwhelmed. Sure it has that comic fast acceleration but it lacked visceral excitement otherwise. Harry hit the nail on the head when he said that if BMW can't make an exciting electric sports car, who can? Tesla? No thanks.

[@GAmbrose]

7°C was fairly cold when you drove to London, and that is the EV Achilles heel. At around 20°C you get another 50 miles out of the battery. Not defending the i4 M50, I drive a Polestar 2 so range is 240miles (actual) in summer and less than 200 miles in winter. It's just a fact of life with current battery tech.

[@GrahamReid34]

you would get the same in an ICE car though mpg is higher during winter.

[@FastTeam11]

Isnt the average annual temperature in the uk like around 9'C? So no, not "fairly cold" - more like "pretty representive" for a average day in the uk

[@GAmbrose]

@@FastTeam11 Technically...but not in Harry's part of the country. Plus it's average high of 14°C and average low of 6°C. That's because it tends to get cold overnight and heat up during the day (when most people travel)

[@rabidbigdog]

I've ordered one of these here in Australia. A couple of things; if there is such a significant difference in range (claimed-to-actual), BMW will end up with trouble from our regulators I think and I will be returning mine. There has to have been something wrong with that press car? Also, here in Australia they're not claiming it as a 'pure' M-Car, but just an M-adjusted/tuned model - a bit like a M340 for example (or 340M - I can never remember).

[@robertharris7027]

Besides the ugly front, the unbelivable back and the enormous weight: Who the hell designed and mounted this ridiculous row of tablets on the dash? It's looking like a DIY-solution. All that is not only M-unworthy, it is not BMW at all.

[@SWR112]

They need to learn forget about this maximum range, by law this should be the minimum range. Manufacturers haven’t learned don’t disappoint your customers. The first thing new owners find and talk about to others is how bad and yes how bad the range is and they are disappointed is says 300 miles but gets 189 miles. You’d feel cheated or conned and is that how manufacturers what new owners to feel. Friend got the new iD4 and refreshingly the dealers said you’ll get 160-170 in winter so base your choice on that. He did and got it in December last year. So he drove the 45 miles round trip daily to his work and loved the fact it hardly used any range in rush hour traffic, he loved the fact as the temperature has increased so has his range. The other week he did 240 miles and still had plenty left the car was saying 280. So instead of a dealer saying this gets 300 miles range and be instantly disappointed within the first few weeks when it said 165 miles at -2 temp he was prepared for it and no instead of saying how bad he’s saying how much it has improved with spring temps.