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BMW i4 vs BMW i5 comparison

Compare performance (601 HP vs 601 HP), boot space and price (49,400 £ vs 60,800 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW i4 or BMW i5?

BMW i4 vs BMW i5: Key differences

BMW i4

5 (3 Reviews)
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  • noticeably cheaper
  • barely quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly lighter
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BMW i5

  • very slightly more electric range
  • marginally more trunk space
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

i4

The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as BMW introduces two remarkable electric vehicles: the BMW i4 and the BMW i5. Both models embody the brand’s commitment to sustainability without compromising on performance and luxury. In this article, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison of these two innovative cars to help you decide which one best suits your needs.

i5

Design and Body Type

The BMW i4 is crafted as a sleek hatchback, reflecting a modern and sporty aesthetic. Its design emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency, enhancing not only its visual appeal but also its performance on the road. Measuring 4783 mm in length, 1852 mm in width, and 1448 mm in height, the i4 offers a spacious interior within a compact footprint.

On the other hand, the BMW i5 stands out as a sophisticated sedan. This model is notably larger, with dimensions of 5060 mm in length, 1900 mm in width, and 1515 mm in height. The i5’s more traditional sedan styling combined with its electric powertrain provides an air of elegance and authority, making it suitable for both business and personal use.

i4

Performance and Powertrain

Under the hood, both models are equipped with advanced electric powertrains, yet they boast distinct performance figures. The i4 offers multiple power outputs, ranging from 286 HP to a robust 544 HP, with torque figures between 400 Nm and 795 Nm. This translates to exhilarating acceleration times, with the top-spec model capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

In comparison, the BMW i5 features power outputs ranging from 340 HP to an impressive 601 HP. The torque ranges from 430 Nm to a potent 820 Nm, allowing the i5 to reach 100 km/h in as little as 3.8 seconds. Both models utilize a dual reduction gearbox automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive power delivery.

i5

Driving Range and Efficiency

The BMW i4 exhibits a commendable electric range, with versions capable of covering between 485 km and 582 km on a single charge, depending on the variant. Its energy consumption varies, with models achieving figures as low as 15.6 kWh/100 km, emphasizing its efficiency.

Meanwhile, the BMW i5 holds its own with an electric range similar to the i4, offering between 511 km and 582 km based on the chosen variant. The i5’s consumption rates are slightly higher, maxing out at 18.4 kWh/100 km, but still position it well within the efficient spectrum of electric vehicles.

i4

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, both vehicles offer luxurious environments designed for comfort and advanced technology. The i4 sports a modern 5-seater cabin with an emphasis on driver engagement and usability. High-quality materials and cutting-edge infotainment systems ensure a first-class experience for both driver and passengers.

The i5, with its sedan body style, provides slightly more spacious seating and a generous trunk capacity of 490 liters compared to the i4’s 470 liters. The styling is elevated further by high-end technology features that include a large digital display, advanced connectivity options, and an intuitive interface for a seamless driving experience.

i5

Safety and Efficiency Ratings

Both BMW i4 and i5 come with a strong commitment to safety, boasting high CO2 efficiency ratings classified as ‘A’, due to their zero emissions. BMW’s latest safety technologies, including driver assistance systems and autonomous features, are integrated into both models, ensuring peace of mind on the road.

i4

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the BMW i4 and BMW i5 ultimately comes down to personal preference and lifestyle needs. The i4 appeals to those looking for a sporty and dynamic hatchback experience, while the i5 is ideal for those who prioritize a spacious and sophisticated sedan form. Both vehicles are a testament to BMW’s innovative spirit and commitment to electrification, setting benchmarks in the electric vehicle market.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

i4

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

BMW i4 is noticeably cheaper – starting at 49,400 £ , while the BMW i5 costs 60,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 11,400 £.

When it comes to electricity consumption, both models perform equally – each averaging 14.7 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the BMW i5 offers very slightly more range – reaching up to 627 km, about 14 km more than the BMW i4.

i5

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

Both models deliver identical power – 601 HP each.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW i4 is barely quicker – completing the sprint in 3.7 s, while the BMW i5 takes 3.8 s. That’s about 0.1 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW i5 delivers marginally more torque with 820 Nm compared to 795 Nm. That’s about 25 Nm more.

i4

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, BMW i4 is very slightly lighter – 2,070 kg compared to 2,195 kg. The difference is around 125 kg.

Looking at boot space, the BMW i5 offers marginally more boot space – 490 L compared to 470 L. That’s a difference of about 20 L.

When it comes to payload, the BMW i5 carries a bit more – 545 kg compared to 480 kg. That’s a difference of about 65 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BMW i4 sits just ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £49,400
i4

BMW i4

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 286 - 601 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.7 - 16.7 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 514 - 613 km
BMW i4
BMW i5

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

BMW i4

The BMW i4 arrives with the poise of a classic Gran Coupé, marrying BMW's playful handling with a sleek, modern interior that makes switching to electric feel like an upgrade rather than a compromise. For buyers who want a practical daily driver that still enjoys a spirited back-road run, the i4 quietly delivers smiles and a surprising dose of driver engagement.

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BMW i5

The BMW i5 swaps predictable executive-car manners for a confident electric vibe, marrying refined comfort with surprisingly engaging steering. It’s a practical choice that doesn’t feel dull, offering the kind of clean, premium experience that makes commuting feel like a small indulgence.

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BMW i4
BMW i5

Costs and Consumption

Price
49,400 - 62,500 £
Price
60,800 - 85,900 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.7 - 16.7 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
14.7 - 17.1 kWh/100km
Electric Range
514 - 613 km
Electric Range
540 - 627 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Sedan
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
2,070 - 2,285 kg
Curb weight
2,195 - 2,370 kg
Trunk capacity
470 L
Trunk capacity
490 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,852 mm
Width
1,900 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
445 - 480 kg
Payload
525 - 545 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
286 - 601 HP
Power HP
340 - 601 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.7 - 6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 6 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
400 - 795 Nm
Torque
430 - 820 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
210 - 442 kW
Power kW
250 - 442 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General

Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
Model Year
2,023 - 2,024
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BMW
Brand
BMW
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.