The beginning of the year saw us release our BMW i4 review, where we praised the all-electric vehicle's (EV) speed, handling, and technology. That was the top-spec M50 variant, but now BMW New Zealand is bringing in a new entry point for potential i4 customers: the eDrive35.
It starts at $98,900, well below the M50's $144,100 sticker price. But despite its more affordable price point, the i4 eDrive35 features the same looks and eDrive technology as the rest of the lineup.
In this configuration, you get a single motor with 210 kW and 400 Nm of peak torque. That takes the i4 eDrive35 from 0 to 100 km/h in only six seconds. Not bad, considering the M50 does it a hair over two seconds quicker.
The 66-kWh battery reportedly delivers 490 km of range on the WLTP cycle, with charging available via 11 kW AC or 180 kW on a high-speed DC charger. In addition, new owners will get access to ChargeNow, a service operated by ChargeNet, which unlocks a membership card and a 10 per cent charging discount for 24 months. Each purchase also comes with a Generation 3 BMW Wallbox for home charging.
Along with ample power and range, the entry-level i4 eDrive35 comes with a respectable list of features. These include exterior and interior trim finishes, 18-inch alloy wheels, traffic-aware adaptive cruise control, and parking assistance.
The i4 eDrive35 will also come available in six colour options, with black and white available at no extra cost. Meanwhile, Black Sapphire, San Remo Green, Sunset Orange, and Mineral White are $1,690 options.
BMW New Zealand says the new i4 eDrive35 will reach New Zealand showrooms before the end of the year, although the model is already configurable on the company's website.