• Auto123 reviews the 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40.
The electric revolution at BMW is accelerating. After having tested out various versions of the i4, we drove around for a week in 2025 xDrive40. This variant promises a balance between electrifying performance, reassuring all-wheel drive and the brand's typical driving pleasure. Does the magic still work when cylinders give way to electrons?
2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 – What’s new?
For 2025, the i4 gets a few subtle but welcome updates. There are aesthetic retouches, notably to the front and rear light clusters, which sharpen its piercing gaze. Inside, the iDrive infotainment system gets the latest software updates for an even smoother user experience.
The xDrive40 version, with its two electric motors, stands out as the choice of reason: it offers the serenity of all-wheel drive without the explosiveness (and price) of the M50. It represents a strong compromise between range and dynamism for the Canadian market.
See also: 2026 BMW i4: More Power and More Range
Design of the 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 – 8.5/10
The i4 retains its Gran Coupé silhouette, slender and just aggressive enough. The solid grille, as prominent as ever, leaves no one indifferent. You either love it or hate it, but it has the merit of sparking conversation.
The new light signatures give it a youthful boost. Passers-by seem to vacillate between silent admiration and the urge to ask, with a conspiratorial air: “Is that really an electric car?”
Inside
BMW masters the art of the cabin, and the i4 xDrive40 is no exception. Build quality is irreproachable and materials are luxurious. The massive curved screen has pride of place on the dashboard. Squint and you feel like you’re at the commands of a spaceship, one dressed in leather and topstitching.
The ergonomics are well thought out, even if the multitude of menus in the iDrive system requires an adaptation period. Fortunately, the physical dial is still there to reduce both moments of driver inattention and fingerprints on the screen.
However, that sublime silhouette exacts a price: interior space is more restricted than one might imagine. The shared platform with the gas-powered 4 Series is felt through a prominent central tunnel that condemns the fifth seat. With four adults, you quickly feel cramped, especially in the back if the folks sitting there are tall. Long trips could test the flexibility of passengers’ knees.
Technology of the 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 – 9.0/10
Between the BMW personal assistant that responds to almost all your whims, the detailed head-up display and the myriad of driving aids, you feel well looked after. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is excellent, and the optional Harman Kardon audio system transforms the cabin into a concert hall.
Small downside: some driving aids can sometimes appear too zealous, calling you to order with the subtlety of a stern teacher.
Powertrain of the 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 – 8.5/10
The i4 xDrive40 features two motors developing a combined output of 396 hp and a generous 443 lb-ft of torque. Enough to pin you to your seat instantly. The battery, with a usable capacity of 83.9 kWh, ensures a respectable range. It is not an M50, but there is plenty of fun to be had.
Driving the 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 – 8.0/10
It is an electric car, and it does push hard. The 0-100 km/h is fast enough to surprise, but without the brutal excesses of the M version. Accelerations remain fluid and perfectly controlled.
The two-tonne weight is well managed but is felt in tight corners. The chassis does a remarkable job, even if one cannot deny the laws of physics. The steering is precise and the xDrive system is reassuring, especially on wet pavement. Regenerative braking is powerful, although it can appear abrupt for those not used to one-pedal driving.
Range and energy consumption
The official range of the i4 xDrive40 is between 450 and 497 km. After a 510 km test, we observed a real-world consumption of 19.2 kWh/100 km. This is an excellent result considering the car’s power, weight and all-wheel-drive configuration.
2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 – Canadian pricing
The starting price of the 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 Gran Coupé in Canada is $63,990. Our well-equipped test model exceeded $74,740.
Some of your questions about the 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40
Is the xDrive system effective in snow?
Yes, it offers excellent traction and reassuring stability in winter, provided it is equipped with good seasonal tyres.
How long does it take to charge?
On a DC fast charger (200 kW), you can go from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 30-35 minutes. At home (Level 2 charger), expect between 7 and 8 hours.
The final word
The 2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 is a true BMW. It provides real driving pleasure and benefits from an exemplary finish. However, limited rear space and occasionally intrusive driving aids might deter some. If you are looking for an electric car that does not deny its dynamic heritage, it is a top-tier candidate.
2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 competitors
- - Ford Mustang Mach-E
- - Hyundai IONIQ 6 AWD
- - Mercedes-Benz EQE
- - Polestar 2
- - Tesla Model 3
