2022 BMW i4 M50 Review // Earn Your M Badge

[@jamesengelsman9369]

Hey everyone. Two quick notes: 1. After the range dropped drastically initially, it seemed to normalize after that and the predicted range matched the final 300km I had left. So think of it as an ICE car just learning how you’re driving in order to predict range, except also add the variable of temperature :) 2. We suggest at the end that the polestar 2 is on a dedicated EV platform. It is not. Like the i4, it is on a shared platform with Volvo ICE cars. Thanks!

[@cuteshadow]

And you forgot that horrid front end... its haunting.

[@yasithj4160]

It's JAMES !

[@CED99]

Should be a pinned comment. Thanks James

[@cwx8]

@@cuteshadow the weird thing is it works better here than on the m3

[@pc0736]

thanks for clarifying the polestar 2 being an ICE platform. would you say the Polestar is done better in its conversion?

[@tdodge29]

My goodness.... I remember when your introduction for one of the episodes was when you were thanking your subscribers for reaching 1 million in total. Doesn't seem like it was that long ago but you guys are inching closer to 2 million every week. Been a subscriber since way back when Thomas tested the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk (707 dragon power) and this entire channel never disappoints in content. Thumbs way up!!

[@sa1f43]

Holy shit I'm just now seeing how fast their channel grew up. Honestly they deserve it, their content is always top-notch.

[@rico2raww]

Same I watched back before James existed

[@cardiacresp]

I love how BMW said they needed that ugly ass grill for “better airflow and cooling” and then they slapped it on an electric car 🤦‍♂️

[@Sophie-and-Ken]

3/4s of the grill is blocked and doesn’t work. Doubling down on ugly.

[@TyinAlaska]

Grills *do* cook things afterall.

[@yasithj4160]

*Cooling ...It's all good bro

[@Sophie-and-Ken]

@@yasithj4160 nobody likes the grammar gestapo. You knew what he meant.

[@cardiacresp]

@@yasithj4160 my thumb slipped lol

[@daflipbizkit]

Test drove this thing. Things I noticed… from an esthusiast pov 1) squirrelly if you mash the pedal from a start 2) reallll quick and still pushes hard even up to 60s 3) handles well in highway mild manuevering, not a canyon carver. Normal consumer pov: 1) fit and finish is great even on base model, probably much more posh with upping to leather 2) daily driving dynamics just like a normal gas car if you set it that way prefer it 3) range is average but enough for a commuter Overall I liked it and my wife liked it for a normal daily and which is why we’re considering it. The price is decent compared to audi (my opinion). If you’re looking for a ride that is premium, ave cost, good range and just a regular commuter that doesn’t need all the bells and whistles, this is a good consideration.

[@universalg_]

This is a really good EV for the people who want that in the market. I'ma still take my inline 6 turbo though 😆

[@robertperillo8738]

Why would you consider this instead of the regular 440i though? Just curious. The 440i is the better car and is significantly cheaper.

[@Sebastianvalen]

@@robertperillo8738 no gas and the tax credit doesn’t hurt

[@koenbraggaar4380]

@@robertperillo8738 depends on where your living. Here in the Netherlands the m50 (73k) is 15k cheaper than a m440i

[@Trades46]

This. The i4 is heavy since BMW took an existing 4 series GC and added the big battery pack but took nothing out. The reason the Model 3 is so light is because...have you sat in one? I have seen economy cars with more materials and build quality than anything in that Tesla. Yet, the Model 3 SR+ is $59k, or identical price to the i4 eDrive40. I know which one I rather pay for.

[@xBris]

17:00 They chose blue, because electrons are blue. If you dissolve sodium metal in liquid ammonia, you get a deep blue solution. That colour directly comes from free electrons in solution (not the Na+ or the ammonia). So you could argue, blue is the colour of electricity.

[@tsukamano]

S C I E N C E

[@codybrown5309]

I want to call bullshit but I don't know enough about science to dispute you. So I'll just call bullshit anyways with the standard "NUH-UH PROVE IT, WHERES YOUR SOURCE" *foams at the mouth in nerd*

[@bd1487]

The colour is actually defined by the frequency of rafiation 're-emmited' ... so your analogy is confined to the potential energy balance of the solution. I don't think colour should be associated with electrons. Its fun to do that tho!

[@codybrown5309]

@@bd1487 Neat. *satisfied in asian*

[@bd1487]

@@codybrown5309 What do you mean?? ... didn't get ya

[@G82Watts]

Coming from a model 3 performance owner and now too this. The i4 is night and day higher qaulity. For one the noise isolation is superb. My model 3 use to pick up wind like i was outside on the highway. Just touching the steering wheel and the interior u feel the higher grade qaulity instantly. Also actually having a HUD integrated into the screen and gauge clusters add to the vibe. Model 3 really cost cuts alot in order to make their cars cheaper. Having to look to the right at a single ipad for my MPH is insane for 2024. Also the speed difference is noticable on the highway. The i4 just keeps pulling and pulling. The carwow video of the i4 vs m3p drage race is what first got me super interested in the i4. Its truly breathe taking and the sounds are dope. Handling wise is perfect for day to day traffic. Ion notice any problems.

[@antoinepageau8336]

Full respect to this channel for telling it like it is. “Come on BMW, get with the program!”

[@harrison4ever125]

Agreed. I think the problem we're seeing is that many manufacturers have not anticipated the full switch to EV vehicles globally as well as some others. Making a great EV is a totally different order than making a great gasoline powered vehicle. It's like asking Pepsi or Coca-Cola to hit the brakes on soda and start making the world's finest coffee. It is going to take most manufacturers many years to get these right. AND, what we perceive as normal and right will also have to change. An EV cannot feel just like a gasoline powered vehicle because it simply isn't the same at all.

[@Sophie-and-Ken]

BMW has lost its direction in recent years. From its design head being poached and BMW trying to appeal to the Chinese market they don’t make cars like they used to. When you say fuckit, steering is fine, use the petrol grill and they block 3/4 of it you have to wonder what other sacrifices or stupid decisions did they make for this car. I can see depreciation hitting this car like a landslide.

[@the_batmobile0.4]

Like BMW would actually listen. Lol

[@EbNorth]

I drove the car. It's great! These kids don't know shit.

[@bazs7669]

@@Sophie-and-Ken pp

[@harrison4ever125]

As a fork lift driver of 13 years, having driven just as many electric lifts as LP gas lifts, I will tell you that one pedal driving becomes quite comfortable. And it won't ruin your regular driving habits as you might think. You just get used to driving 2 different types of vehicles. Much like driving an auto vs manual transmission vehicle.

[@deansmits006]

I got a Nissan Leaf 18 months ago, and it's B mode gives strong Regen, though not 1 pedal driving. Like lightly breaking, is almost like driving with a rheostat. After adjusting to it, I love it. Easier to drive smoothly in regular traffic

[@alwaysplaythegame]

Yes and no. One pedal driving is less efficient and likely responsible for a lot of the range loss James experienced. There are no clear studies on impact to driver behavior (I would 'guess' any would be negligible). I have an ev and prefer normal pedal driving personally l, but I never committed to 1 and I'm still torn.

[@harrison4ever125]

@@alwaysplaythegame well it's a luxury, and luxuries come at a price. Just like air conditioning really.

[@Chris21709]

@@alwaysplaythegame One-pedal is ALWAYS more efficient when done correctly. If you just pull your foot off the pedal, then you're not driving one-pedal. Takes a couple of weeks to learn (change 2-pedal habits).

[@alwaysplaythegame]

@@Chris21709 I'm just repeating what the car companies claim. A few have said that it's more inefficient and I'm sure that's on average and not if you trained yourself to not take your foot off (in which case it should be the same).

[@aharris]

I test drove this car, and you're missing the part where it's HOLY CRAP SO FAST! I felt a mild headrush when I stomped on it with that insane power and instant torque. Freaking rocket ship. :)

[@opwanncanopie]

They're spoiled. And you're right, it's super fast.... and the sound. Everything is very cool.

[@madpistol]

I went and test drove one of these a few days ago, and "freaking rocket ship" sums it up nicely. These things are bonkers from a dig. What's great is that when it's traveling at high speeds, it still feels as fast (or faster) as my B58 powered M440i GC. What's more, it's just as comfortable and quiet too. It's like my M440i GC... just WAYYYYYYYYYYYY more power.

[@mrcuboid]

@@madpistolwhat is “GC”

[@madpistol]

@@mrcuboid Gran Coupe

[@fatbikedad384]

@@madpistolhappy owner of a 440gc myself… love it but thinking to go electric i4…. I will not miss it?

[@-_neo_-]

Man I’d just wish the front end of these new BMWs would look good

[@2350J]

i actually like these 🥲

[@LLG47]

I know, it's such an eyesore. I seriously think it's the worst looking bmw ever, and it's going to age so poorly.

[@madkabal]

Butt Print BMW

[@Sophie-and-Ken]

The fact they put their fugly grill on a EV, no words. I would never buy this shit.

[@aadi8568]

@@2350J I like the M4 but standard 4 series and i4 just looks weird and out of place - with the m4 at least the rest of the body is aggressive and matches the grille

[@abdullahbander9631]

The intro was hilarious even i don't understand English 🤣

[@mrwagner01]

That’s ok, neither does Thomas I guess 😂

[@neutron8764]

@@mrwagner01 lol

[@wheelspinmanager]

Neither i 😂

[@lollypoofy]

Can someone explain it though please 😅

[@neutron8764]

@@lollypoofy substitute i4 with “eye for”

[@MrProthall]

Big points for it not being an SUV and ALSO being an EV.

[@CrazySpartan150]

Man I keep trying to like the new front end of BMWs, I really do, and so many people have been like, "It's grown on me." Unfortunately it has not grown on me. I still think it looks gross. But another great video as usual guys! LOVE the straightforward honesty about this car, we NEED more of that! Holy shit keep up the good work!

[@_baller]

Stop trying, it's ugly

[@andrewduong2740]

A lot of people said the same things about Lexus, but I doubt the feedback on BMW's style will age as well. Lexus and Audi's grilles work because they fit as part of a whole. BMW's look vestigial.

[@_baller]

@@andrewduong2740 Audi and Lexus was "ok", they are large grills, that's all, BMW is an UGLY grill, the fact that its large makes no difference

[@itcangetbetter]

@@andrewduong2740 Lexus grilles absolutely don't work on anything but the LC and somewhat the IS. That's why people still comment on how it ruins the front of every car they continue to curse it with. It's no better than BMWs grille. Both terrible design choices that they stubbornly refuse to step away from

[@Johnnygga]

A lot of people like the front now. When you look at “older” BMWs now, they look beautiful but “dated” if that makes sense.

[@N54B30BMW]

The critical points may be fair but I just want to note that none of them have anything to do with it being on a shared platform. And about the pricing: if you compare it with the etron GT or a Taycan this does pretty much the same but costs way less. Anyway this is pretty much the first EV that I could actually imagine owning.

[@arpit5317]

Did you guys see the new 7series leak? When you think BMW can't make those grills any bigger........ BMW is like : THINK AGAIN!

[@bavariancarenthusiast2722]

Yeah but they are functional - for the new gen BMW´s those will be sensor shields :)

[@preyhunter4179]

It looks absolutely horrific

[@taladon6420]

I think the 3 and 5 actually look really good but the other ones are weird, I agree

[@JTM610]

Can you send the link? Could not find anything legit on Google

[@tobias_k01]

Dude what leak? It hasn't been leaked so far, every supposed "leak" has been called out as a fake.

[@wannabedal-adx458]

Wow, "The Ford Mach-E is better at something than this BMW i4!" I hoped they felt that in Munich! Great video, still hate the grill!

[@Fc-cb3tn]

I really doubt BMW gives a toss about the steering feel on their cars anymore😂

[@jkeijzer1418]

But also, the mach-e is worse at everything else

[@BjrnRuthberg]

Yeah, that's the most hurtful thing anyone has said to anyone in the history of dissing cars.

[@aaronmerritt7559]

Thomas seemed so hurt when he said the Mach e has better steering 😪

[@TyinAlaska]

Thank you for NOT selling out. Also, thank you for being proper BMW fanboys; you are extra upset when your team messes up rather than overly sympathetic.

[@Ethan7s]

Well, at roughly $5k per M badge, it’s a certifiable bargain!

[@pac2599]

I agree with Thomas. After working on bmws for over a decade I have to say I'm harder on BMW's because the driving dynamics are just not the same feel. I do know from personal experience that BMW do make a high quality product and the average person who hasn't driven older BMW's would probably be very impressed with any new BMW.

[@aussie2uGA]

I had the e39 M5, the e93 M3, and now bought a model 3. I’m loving the Model 3! If BMW can get the performance and steering feel, they’ll have a real contender.

[@asylum9868]

it is ugly

[@pac2599]

@@vickydada5595 Trust me the parts are better quality. I work on American and Japanese cars mainly now for the last 2 years after working on German cars for over a decade. German cars get a bad rap because they are literally 10 years ahead in technology. The front runners always take a beating first.

[@krane15]

One word: center-of-gravity. In theory, it should be even more agile, but there's a lot more to it than just that.

[@pac2599]

@@vickydada5595 I do if you like what you drive. A extended warranty is always a good idea as long as it's a reputable company. My daily is a 2010 bmw 535i. I love it but I know it will cost more to maintain then a honda or ford.

[@iRapplexD]

As a 24 i4 m50 owner I think the main goal of this car is so that any petrol car owner can have a smooth transition to EV. Which BMW exceeded beyond every aspects of that. Wait till 2026 i4m, it will blow your mind.

[@preyhunter4179]

Thomas literally no one complained about the iDrive 7. However, everyone complains about the new-gen and says it is too complicated, so I thought you would shred it to pieces. But no, you actually like it.

[@mt2nv1]

Great review! Fully agree on the steering. There is no reason more engaging handling can’t be engineered. I actually really like the sound too. 👍

[@StarryTemplar]

Great sound but sharing platform with Gas car just non sense and made i4 M50 with tiny Rear leg room and headroom... no sun curtain and Massage seats just NOT LuXURY!

[@blocksource4192]

@@StarryTemplar why would there be massage seats and sun curtains in a $65k daily driver EV... The $80k iX has those things you want (I know because I have one), but it's more expensive.

[@schnaufschnief5791]

Honestly I‘m so disappointed of the i4. It has no benefits in terms of interior space compared to conventional cars. It‘s just a really heavy and not good looking car where you and your stuff barely fit inside. For real I was so disappointed when I was sitting in one for the first time. It feels smaller than a VW Golf or BMW 1 series and the sunroof is a joke. For me the most overlooked and underrated BMW is the i3. Yes its looks are controversial. But it looks fresh even after so many years and it drives great. Especially on tight country roads it‘s great fun, very nimble with enough power to accelerate out of sharp turns. And it‘s light. The low weight and the thin tires make you feel fast without going overly fast and it has a super nice steering feel. I think it‘s all about driving pleasure and that comes with feel and the ability to throw your car around corners without being scared to end up at the next tree.

[@cwx8]

While I agree mostly on your points, I'd say one of is strengths is that it doesn't look weird. It looks like a car. It's also afforded great chassis balance unlike its competitors. BMW is leveraging it's experience here in the geometry of a 3/4. Its certainly nowhere near as small as a golf or 1er so that's a big exaggeration.

[@realMysta]

I dunno I at least love that it’s a hatch. In a world where everyone is making everything into an suv at least give cars a hatch/sportback

[@deansmits006]

Right, which is the downside to using an ICE platform. The upside is lower price. Once they can mass produce the EV platform (based on ix?), you get the added benefits of more space, less weight, and better range. And better pricing

[@andakara27]

BMW's nomenclature is really going out of hand

[@darienlux4735]

The problem is this car should be an i3 but they used that already.

[@fathoiii]

So many years have passed and yet I still at least smirk when James gets hits in the head. Love you guys!

[@AFJDM]

While BMW's entry in this segment is decent, I'm mostly glad because it defines the boundaries for the mid-size EV sport sedan: Model 3 Performance, Polestar 2, and now this. Hopefully Audi can have a direct rival to this and also Genesis, which could likely undercut the price of this by a few grand and have a similar if not maybe better experience and spec sheet.

[@FlyingArtz.]

If Genisis can pull it off im in there!!

[@foam27]

This is a gas car retrofitted to EV. Model 3 and Polestar 2 are ground up EV.

[@BogeyTheBear]

It's a gas car that's been tried and true, then refitted with an electric drivetrain. Any faults in a dedicated EV platform have to be worked out via the trials and tribulations of EV owners. BMW had this stuff figured out through their piston-driven models.

[@mbanck]

Some comments: 1. There's a 3 series BEV starting production this month, but it's china-only (and based on the long-wheel base G28 variant that is china-only as well) 2. The floor (and trunk) are a bit higher than the corresponding 4er GC 3. At least part of the battery is in the transmission tunnel, so it is not completely useless

[@t1328]

Great video. It’s unfortunate that BMW hasn’t yet been able to turn their magic on fully on EVs, but I suspect they will. As you pointed out, it’s no easy feat.

[@squash7751]

Wait wait wait... you actually like this hunk of crap electric car?!

[@paulklp8262]

@@squash7751 Yes, cause we're car fans. Not petrol sniffers.

[@squash7751]

@@paulklp8262 you're not a car fan. You're another piece of the general demographic that thinks, " ooooo electric go woosh and accelerate fast" that's not driving. That's riding the car.

[@squash7751]

@@paulklp8262 electric mx-5?! Car fan?! AHAHAHAHAHAHAH

[@paulklp8262]

@@squash7751 You'll never evolve lmao

[@timoldland]

Great vid as ever. The steering on the eDrive40 is much better as it’s RWD only, in fact I think it’s a much better car overall. It’s lighter, still crazy quick, handles better and you get an extra 50 miles range.

[@Trades46]

People have said the eDrive40 is better since the front axle isn't burdened by an electric motor and as you said, lower curb weight.

*people who can’t afford the m50.

[@timoldland]

@ Read what I wrote, arrogant prick. The eDrive40 is the better car. I’ve driven both extensively and irrespective of cost I’d never choose the M50.

​@@timoldland Gotta take all the parameters of the equation into consideration: Your edrive40 must be SO MUCH FUN in the snow. My context in Canada is different than yours.

@@timoldland also, I am doing 90% highway. Not racetrack. Why should I care if the edrive40 behaves « slightly » better in turns… you will remember that when an m50 leaves you in the dust on the highway…

[@NO3V]

The Polestar 2 is _not_ a dedicated EV btw. It's on the same platform as for example the Hybrid Volvo XC40. It too does have a transmission tunnel, a too wide and still not spacious center console, a tiny frunk and significantly too much weight compared to for example a Model 3. Just a FYI.

[@JacesOwnWorld]

As a pure //M enthusiast (meaning non-turbo //M gens) and owner, This vehicle upsets me! It’s pure marketing. Nothing more, nothing less. The //M brand has been diminished long ago.

[@paramdeepdhaliwal9694]

First of all congratulations to you guys bcoz u guys have almost 2 million subscribers now I still remember those days when u just started ur chennel u make us I mean all canadian proud with ur dedication hard work enthusiasm and uniqueness keep it up mates love and greetings from mississauga Canada

[@ThrottleHouse]

🤘

[@opwanncanopie]

I've test driven a few and my mind was blown. I sense there's a bit of disconnect between what these guys think about a car and what the general public feels. Most people's minds would be blown driving this car. It's a spaceship.

[@gt4rs05]

Thanks for the sounds when you show us something not in video! Makes it much easier to watch. It's always annoying when movies give a written location on screen for example but don't indicate they're telling you information and you miss it.

[@carlbenjiphotography6651]

Definitly, I'm in love with your fair & square remarks. It's tough, but real. Guys, thanks to your show.

[@leonard7116]

Greetings from Germany and Good Sunday my friend

[@tugatomskanimation6370]

11:27 I had no idea there was a color named "Portimão Blue". Probably something to do with Portimão's race circuit in Algarve, Portugal.

[@beest_]

You guys are honest and thorough, and have a great sense of humor. What I want is (if possible) a scale or metric to compare EV cars in addition to range and weight. Sorta where in scale this cars falls to leading models in EV. It would be your own metric but it would be a good starting point for me at least. Sorry.👏👏

[@harrison4ever125]

They kind of do that in their own way though. They periodically compare it to other EV models throughout the video and they have been reviewing a LOT of EV models as of late. It's not really fair to have a top to bottom "good, better, best" scale though because in many cases they're reviewing vehicles that are completely different and unique in their own ways. But more importantly, there is such a wide price range that it complicates things. You cannot compare a Lucid Air to a Mustang Mach E for example. Or a BMW i4 to the new GMC Hummer. It just doesn't work.

[@EbNorth]

I drove the car. It's really good. They are making jokes for nothing.

[@Sophie-and-Ken]

@@EbNorth you work for BMW, you’re copying this into every post?

[@beest_]

@@harrison4ever125 I understand what you're saying and I do see that they are comparing EV models in their own way. In fact this is precisely why I asked for a Throttle House metric system (THMS). Each category can have a weighted point, so that it linearizes the THMS scale. All important points such as price, handling, interior , build quality, range will have a weighted range. So that we can compare a $50K model to a $100K model. This sort of systems are used everywhere, for most products. I know and appreciate their work, all in suggesting is putting a number to their final thoughts.

[@EbNorth]

@@Sophie-and-Ken No. I repeated it like twice. Because it's true. The cars are great. Drive one.

[@karihautala3037]

Interesting to read all comments. Guys have a lot followers, and make excellent reviews. Don’t know, what Throttle House expected from M50, a nimble performance car, like M4? How would that be possible with this weight. This one is a grand tourer with effortless power and great comfort. I highly recommend you to test drive M50. I’ve been a lucky owner for almost a month, and enjoying every minute.

[@uniquelypositive]

So if the bucktooth grill was "necessary" for the M3 & M4 for increased air intake, what's their excuse for the i4?

[@simonbelmont1]

It looks like a butt.

[@uniquelypositive]

@C L lol. They can still share the platform and not the bumper!

[@Visualhead_Spacer]

bucktooth? I always see it as a "mustache" from that famous guy... in Germany...

[@TomSundayGames]

2018 BMW 440xi with the Power and Sound Kit is the last purist built non M BMW. B58 motor, proper manual and correct spec. I love that car.

[@thapelomopalami8464]

I'm desperately waiting on the ix50 review from you guys. I just love your reviews, atleast better than straight pipes, they same to be ranting this days about charging stations plus hated their review of the ix50. Keep up the good work and please review the bmw ix50

[@CruiseControl1]

I am currently shopping for an AWD EV. I just drove a Mustang Mach E and a VW ID4. Mach e won for looks inside and out, power, and sound system. The ID4 won in driving enjoyment, practicality and massaging seats. I will be driving the EV6, Ioniq 5 and BZ4X before I decide.

[@kingsterre]

I’ve driven all of these. Including Volvo Xc40 twin recharge that had great acceleration, the others were really swampy and boring. But none close to the i4 M50. A real rocket with amazing comfort and sound insulation.

[@CruiseControl1]

@@kingsterre BZ4X is not out yet so how did you drive it?

[@kingsterre]

@@CruiseControl1 ok you got me - not the bz4x

[@IfeelSaab]

I feel you soo much. I've never been more disappointed after an Test Ride. The i4 M50 is a nice comfy car with enough power, but it's not an M Car. It was supposed to replace my Tesla Model 3 performance, but unfortunately the BMW is not nearly as sporty as the Tesla and is also much less fun.

[@habibi750]

I was also going to buy this car but ended up buying a Model 3 Performance.

[@makatron]

Seems like we're still 6 or more years away to M2CS kind of fun in EV form.

[@Gogoi.rupam54]

Idk why, your videos feels so relaxing and the intelligent comedy. Never disappoints 😂😂 Love from India guys🫀🫀🫀 Keep up the good work🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@nickyang1143]

Lol, "Cool Runnings" in the midst of some of the greatest movies of all time

[@colemcdowell1362]

BMW is by far my favorite brand, I’ve dreamed of owning an M3/4 since NFS Most Wanted. I come to throttle house and hold their opinions and reviews to a high standard, and this one has me a little bit upset with the Bavarians

[@ashrafhouzail1876]

Same.. the NFS m3 is an iconic car

[@bmw3842]

I love my 2022 BMW i4M50 Black Sapphire Metallic . Worth the 75k I paid for it .

[@vthors3000]

I've driven this car and i fell in love. I always love the sound of a good exhaust and intake but holy crap this m50 is really something. Compared to the IC sport cars, this beats anything in the same price range. Highly recommend.

[@amirdhillon1]

Thanks for that ! Ordered one on behalf of my mother

[@foam27]

Don't drive a model 3 performance, it's another level.

[@G82Watts]

​@@foam27no its not the i4 is faster. Coming from a m3p owner. Past 60mph the i4 keeps pulling like it did when i first hit the gas. The m3p dies down. The i4 utilizes its power band better. Just watch the carwow drag race. I4 vs model 3 performance

[@Jdnicks00]

Totally agreed. I did test drive on i4, it’s a great EV. But the lagging electrical accelerator is weird.

[@madpistol]

in Sport Boost, zero lag. Power is instant, and it punches you in the back of the head.

[@smokeymotorsport]

But Jason Cammisa just told me a Lucid Air at 5000lb still DOES have some decent feel and handling ability. So it IS possible despite the weight. You know that, you were there! :-)

[@connorscanlon6289]

They’re different size classes, so journalists expect less to begin with (the Lucid is much larger than the i4 and therefore expected to handle worse), and the Lucid is two to three times the price, so there is a greater engineering and parts budget for suspension design and componentry, which can start to overcome weight with tricks like adaptive air suspension, reduction of unsprung mass with aluminum, and the inclusion of harder to implement elements like double wishbone suspension. The same goes for the Porsche Taycan. BMW is trying to meet a price point here, and is therefore constrained for the time being until a dedicated BMW platform can be developed for EVs, and until economies of scale can start to bring the price of engineering and components down to better design and refine future models. It’s unfortunate that they couldn’t achieve these things out of the gate, but BMW needed a serious and relatively affordable EV on the market in a short period of time to stand out among their competitors (which they have, Mercedes-Benz and Audi have yet to release a more affordable EV model), and this results in what we have today. Hopefully these handling issues will be addressed and resolved soon!

[@smokeymotorsport]

@@connorscanlon6289 I don't disagree with any of your points, but the video merely stated that at 5,000lb it's not possible to have good steering. The vehicle class etc wasn't a proviso mentioned.

[@laxlife5050]

@@smokeymotorsport well a 7series and a s series weigh about that much. They are huge also in size and so is the lucid air. Have you seen the space in the back? It also has all types of luxury stuff that weigh also. Comparing a 3series to a 7series is probably not right so why are you doing the same with another brand? I'm sure people would rate a 330i to feel more responsive than a 7 series. Lucid air is comparable with a eqs or a Tesla model S plaid. Not a 30k car that car been slapped with an electric motor and a few batteries.

[@smokeymotorsport]

@@laxlife5050 You've sort of made my point for me. A huge saloon can still have a bit of life about it, while a 3/4 series apparently cannot. As for the price, I understand your point, but this is no longer a 30k car this high in the range, so it can't feel like one

[@laxlife5050]

@@smokeymotorsport I'm sure it can, but designing a cars structure from ground up to stand 5000lbs as standard is different then slapping 1500lbs on a car that isn't made originally to take that much weight. Probably materials are different also in heavier cars.

[@warmongerism]

LOL! Thomas' reaction to the joke was priceless. Talk about deep cuts. Take my thumbs up.

[@eduardorivera4100]

Saw y’all cameo on hagerty. Looks like you guys are getting pretty popular. Love this channel nice job 👍

[@maxlanh24]

Seeing this evolution of bmw kinda hurts

[@alfonsealbanese1785]

I knew the initial joke was coming (what's an i4?) and I still laughed :). You make these videos fun to watch.. Thanks

[@JMD535]

LOL! "What's an i4?"! I nearly fell outta my chair! LOL! Check this, I just drove the i4 M50 yesterday at a BMW sponsored event. We were highly encouraged to Send the beans,...and I must say,...this thing HAULS!

[@dillonphillips313]

Thanks for keeping it real, as always. This car falls short.

[@andychristensen2947]

Seeing one of these this early just makes the morning coffee taste *better*, ya know?

[@minso8164]

I'm with you on that one. Model 3 seems way superior. Quicker, faster, lighter, cheaper, bigger range, better tech. Done.

[@aubery83]

I drove the suv yesterday its dope.......don't like the grill but eh it's nice the interface/cockpit nice

[@HaruHaruman]

That grille is just a complete failure. It's gonna grow on people? Yeah bullshit. That grille is still not growing on me and it's just hideous as fuck. It actually put me off from buying the new 4 Series and I'm sure I'm not the only one.

[@codybrown5309]

Yeah. Grow on people like a bad rash. Or a fungus. Or the BLM movement. Or womens rights. You get the idea.

[@Sophie-and-Ken]

The fact they put that gill on an EV and blocked 3/4 of it just tells me they don’t give a shit any more. Same with the steering, they just don’t care. When you’re that bull headed to make a car like this when they whole world wants an old school BMW then your just making shit to sell because it has an M badge. I would stay away from this car, deprecation is going to hit it like a landslide.

[@SuperHbkforever]

No hate on the straight pipes, but I'm so happy you guys passed them in subscribers. The quality of your videos is sooooooooooooo good, you guys deserve all of the success you've earned

[@KZ-se4ik]

Straight pipes are several levels below these guys. Wanted to reach through the screen and choke them on the several occasions I tried to watch a complete video of theirs.

[@vedikjindal9508]

u guys mentioned every soundtrack by han zimmer except the best one: The dark knight

[@evalonious]

Why aren't car makers giving the option in EV's to toggle through "Classic" engine sounds, like bmw V12, V8, I6, or the Isetta? Downloadable engine sound samples is the future. 😅

[@NafaratMiyaMiya]

Agreed this would ramp up the fun factor

[@evalonious]

@Ahmed Adam 😅 Lets have fun with pedestrian safety! Big block V8 engine sound for your Tesla. 😅

[@Vge21x]

The intro feels like there was an entire bit planned, but James just couldn't help himself.

[@robervin9107]

The incredible intro and Thomas is awesome his voice is so soothing omg 😯 awesomene job guys love you

[@Calx91]

Fix the front grille and put a gas engine on this car and BOOM! Perfection

[@Fc-cb3tn]

The opening skit matches this car incredibly well: both are a bad joke.

[@Tobeit]

Almost ashamed seeing this as a German car enthusiast. We used to deliver excellence. This is simply behind. A lot.

[@loephaengsavanh7380]

The intro was hilarious 🤣🤣🤣

[@jonwjanzen]

It was your duty as Canadians to include Cool Runnings in that list of films. Cinematic gold.

[@annakquinn7084]

BMW is doing like AMG, throwing significant badges to everything that is meaningless.

[@razorworks111]

The M denomination used to mean “Motorsport”. Today, it stands for “Marketing”

[@davechannel01]

That intro was hilarious! It actually had me laughing to tears. Great channel!! Thanks for the review (and the laughs)!

[@Trades46]

Despite this, I'm leaning toward either the i4 or Polestar 2 for my next car. Having 3 PHEV in the family I have grown to enjoy the driving feel of EVs and its low running costs. I'm also very unimpressed with Tesla offerings and do not like SUVs, so the choice really boils down these two.

[@mrsneakyburt]

Test drove the i4 m50 the other day and it was a blast, build quality wise its an amazing car

[@thedatboi_]

There is also the taycan from porsche and the audi e-tron gt buf those are expensive

[@lanegunnell1218]

A Cool Runnings reference?! My fave movie from childhood. "Hey James, ya dead?" "Yeah, man." BTW, loved the cameo y'all made with Cammisa, great to see this channel blowing up! Well deserved.

[@kingsterre]

Nice car and nice shoots on the beautiful Portimao Blue! I agree on steering feel, but it gets better with summer tyres on. Driving on soft winter tyres makes a great deal of change. The i4 M50 is a M two digit car - not a M single digit car (such as M2, M3, M4, M5). You have been trapped into the M single digit comparison just as some french reviewers two months ago. It’s a M performance - not a full M - so your story is built upon the wrong interpretation. Due to heavy weight, the M50 has similar performance to the equally heavy M550D or M550i. These three are all great GT cars for comfortable everyday use with speed potential - no race track cars.

[@DBQ42]

My thoughts, too. It seemed as if they were expecting an ev M3, and when thats not what they got, they threw a wee bit of a temper tantrum and just started bashing the car.

[@madpistol]

So a couple of comments. 1. In Sport Boost, power is immediate and relentless. Zero lag. It just punches you in the gut, and you're going way too fast in no time flat. 2. The car is not meant to be an M3/M4 competitor... and it's way cheaper. Also, it launches just as hard (if not harder) as an M3 Comp xDrive... for $10k less. (obviously take a corner, and the M3 xdrive will massacre it.) 3. This is BMW's first attempt at a high performance EV. They did a damn good job. It will get better next gen.

[@sk8ingthemystery]

M cars just don't seem special anymore, everything is an M car now.

[@maestro4287]

Cool Runnings references are always appreciated

[@koreancarnews]

Definitely wait for the EV6 GT. Nearly 600 hp for only $60,000 and built from ground up as an EV.

[@alwaysplaythegame]

Agree that it's a good competitor, but that's pretty much in line with this car. About 40 fewer ponies and 0.2s slower to 60 while costing around $5k more. But you have a BMW instead of a Kia which will win a lot of people over. It's not like the Kia is $50k and clearly a much better buy on specs alone.

[@kingsterre]

Congrats - you’ll get the very important ”get dirty hands” frunk and a 15 cm lower part for the 3rd passenger (no tunnel) that never sits there. EV6 look cool and has nice interior design. The rear part looks sad. Don’t expect the quality of the BMW. The screens on EV6 are sadly outdated from start. But if is important to have a pure EV for the sake of it - go ahead!

[@alexanderdagreat5026]

GT Line AWD is 59K, good luck getting a GT for 60K.

[@laxlife5050]

@@kingsterre so is the software on the I4. Bad software architecture can't be fixed with bug fixes. Take the Nokia Symbian OS vs iOS. I think that's the biggest problem almost all legacy makers have. The systems are not made for an ev nor the future. They are just an old software updated for the date the car is sold and after not given a .... About. The throttle response is crazy slow. It's weird that they couldn't get it right.

[@kingsterre]

@@laxlife5050 I have driven the M50 twice and love the handling and pedals. Nothing bothered me. The software is miles better previous cars I’ve had and Apple carplay works fine with Maps and Spotify. I buy a car - not a computer.

[@charantpaulsen855]

I love the background music. Befitting of the car in question

[@ananthnabhan]

They never fail in being hilarious! "It's like getting a piercing but piercing your mouth shut" 😂😂😂

[@miggity02]

“For seeing, you idiot” is the best tagline I’ve heard in a while 😂

[@ScreamingSicilian70]

They need to get rid of the buck teeth grill! If I was going to buy one, that would be a deal breaker. It's a shame because other than that, it's a very good looking car. Battery technology is just not there yet. 1000lbs heavier is just too fat and it works against itself in terms of power/weight ratio.

[@StevenRoby]

Just curious as to if you would review the i4 eDrive40 on your other channel (or here). It's lighter, better range, and I've seen other (less fun) reviews where they say it drives much better, and is the better i4 to get. Could you give the eDrive40 a go?

[@juanmedinar20]

The BMW I4 M50 weights more than a Model S Plaid by 250lbs lol.

[@thiccboi1726]

That’s because it’s not built as an ev from the ground up, dedicated ev cars are usually lighter than ev cars built off a combustion engined car chassis

[@andrewhorte2010]

It also costs less than half

[@spencerterry9547]

The intro... pure gold!

[@Landshark9]

As someone that's still owns 2 BMW,s, one of them a highly modified M335i I am sad to admit the closest thing to an electric BMW (Even an M3) you can buy is Tesla Model 3 performance... Felt like a E90 with electric motors TBH, steering and turn in were as sharp or even more so than in my car.. And you don't have to deal with $5K(usd) is repairs EVERY year.

[@Landshark9]

@Stefan I specifically said "highly modified", to your point my wife's BMW’s (2013 & 2019 X3) have been bullet proof on high mileage pre-Covid daily commute of 90 miles.

[@connorscanlon6289]

Having test driven both an i4M50 and a Model 3 Performance, the BMW is better handling in almost every regard. The Tesla just has an artificially and unbalanced sharp turn-in to “seem sporty” without actually being sporty. Tesla isn’t competitive in this regard. The problem with the BMW isn’t how it compares to its electric rivals, it’s how it falls short to its ICE BMW counterparts.

[@unclerico4626]

This channel is my favorite car channel by far

[@tubaterry]

Even though the Polestar 2 doesn't come from a dedicated platform, I do still feel like it has more of the driving dynamics that you were hoping for from this car.

[@jkeijzer1418]

Nope. The polestar does not have any steering feel at all, like all volvo's and the traction control cant be turned off completely. The only thing it has going for it is ohlins dampers and super rigid chassis.

[@tubaterry]

@@jkeijzer1418 I mean I own one and track it just fine so let's not be so absolutist maybe

[@AlbertHu93]

@@jkeijzer1418 personally I test drove both back to back. Besides the slightly lazier gas paddle feel to the Polestar 2, the body control of that car is actually quite nice. And with i4 M50 commencing a much higher price tag, it doesn’t feel particularly better.. Worst, it felt almost generic. As a current M5/M2 owner, it’s disappointing

[@Justjefe]

Literally haven’t watched the video and I already know it’s a banger throttle house so clutch

[@chrismckay9647]

Another great review guys... Thanks. I think you touched on one of the most problematic issues with a non-dedicated platform conversion... It will always be compared to the donor car. And this donor car was optimized to be a good ICE model, not a good EV. No frunk, a transmission tunnel, I assume major compromises to battery and electric motor location, etc. It feels to me like BMW didn't take EV thing seriously and are now scrambling to catch up.

[@MM-gg3rg]

Let's give BMW credit! The fact that this looks like a 'regular' car, to me, this why I'd buy it! I'm in the market for an EV. I test drove a model S and I just couldn't see myself owning one, It's quite expensive and the interior let me wanting.. I'm going to place an order for one! However, I wouldn't get the M50 as it's heavier and less efficient! Thank you BMW for building the I4! I can't see myself driving anything in this current EV market!!!!

[@ddoroslovac]

OEM builds an ICE first, then converts to EV = hot mess with comprises

[@BogeyTheBear]

OEM takes one of their time-tested ICE platforms and sticks on a 1000 pound floor pan while ripping the engine out = a chassis with an already proven reputation for handling gets the CG lowered even more.

[@aneebaba06]

I have one on the way this summer. Metallic Portimao blue with cognac interior. I understand / don't disagree with the criticisms but not a big deal in the big picture. I'm coming from a 2016 BMW 328 iX (LCI).

[@Neojhun]

The weight is freaking 2125kg ~ 2.1 Tonnes. It's absurd they could even achieve such weight, that is not due to being BEV. A better design could easily remove 200kg a serious amount of weight loss.

[@deansmits006]

Yep, downside of using ICE platform to start. At least it doesn't cost a lot more than the M4

[@BogeyTheBear]

Given that a Tesla 3's hood will dent if you close it with one hand, you have to ask yourself what are you sacrificing for that lesser weight?

[@Harry-pe7nr]

“And I’m James 😃”

[@amirnaim3675]

The grill is not just big. It's needlessly big. It's an EV ffs

[@andrewduong2740]

The Jaguar i-Pace has one for cooling. Maybe it's the same case here

[@amirnaim3675]

@@andrewduong2740 cooling the batteries?

[@bernhard.k]

@@amirnaim3675 of course you have to cooling the batterys

[@Sophie-and-Ken]

@@amirnaim3675 maybe but 3/4 of the grill is blocked so no.

[@amirnaim3675]

@@bernhard.k I know that batteries need cooling. But is that massive grill serves that purpose?