BMW i4 Grand Coupe (2023) User Manual

The 2023 BMW i4 Grand Coupe arrives not just as a stylish electric vehicle, but as a direct shot at Tesla’s Model 3 dominance. Combining sporty handling, a luxurious interior, and impressive range, it’s a formidable contender in the growing EV market. Let’s dive into the details:

Exterior Design:

The i4 borrows heavily from the 4 Series Gran Coupe, but adds its own electric personality. The sloping roofline and frameless doors scream “sporty,” while the closed kidney grille and sleek headlights hint at its electric heart. It’s not a head-turner in the way Teslas are, but it exudes a subtle elegance that speaks to the BMW enthusiast.

Interior Design:

Step inside and you’re greeted by a familiar BMW layout, albeit with a modern twist. Curved screens dominate the dashboard, displaying the iDrive 8 infotainment system. Material quality is top-notch, with soft leather, brushed aluminum accents, and ambient lighting creating a luxurious atmosphere. The driving position is low and sporty, while rear passengers enjoy good headroom and decent legroom.

Performance and Handling:

The i4 comes in two flavors: eDrive40 and M50. The eDrive40 offers 320 horsepower and a 301-mile range, while the M50 boasts 536 horsepower and a slightly reduced 270-mile range. Both feel incredibly quick and responsive, with instant torque launch and smooth acceleration. The handling is surprisingly sharp for an electric car, thanks to the low center of gravity and near-perfect weight distribution. It grips corners confidently and delivers a true sports sedan experience.

Technology and Features:

The iDrive 8 system is the star of the show. It’s intuitive and responsive, featuring voice control, gesture recognition, and customizable screens. The curved display takes some getting used to, but it provides a seamless experience for both driver and passenger. The car also comes loaded with safety features like lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.

Practicality and Comfort:

Despite its sporty nature, the i4 surprises with its practicality. The trunk offers 12.7 cubic feet of space, which expands to 48.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The front seats are heated and ventilated, and offer ample support for long journeys. Even the rear seats are comfortable enough for adults, making the i4 a surprisingly functional family car.

Charging and Range:

The i4 supports both DC fast charging and AC level 2 charging. DC fast charging can add up to 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes, while AC level 2 charging takes around 8 hours to fully charge the battery. The real-world range can vary depending on driving conditions, but most users should be able to achieve the EPA estimates with careful driving.

Verdict:

The 2023 BMW i4 Grand Coupe is a compelling choice for anyone seeking a luxurious, sporty, and practical electric car. It delivers exhilarating performance, impressive range, and a comfortable and well-equipped interior. While the price tag may be daunting compared to some rivals, the i4 offers a premium experience that justifies its cost.