BMW continues to lead the charge with its revolutionary electric vehicles, the i4 and i7.
These models, the i4 xDrive M50 and i7 xDrive60 Pure Excellence, are emblematic of the brand’s commitment to blending performance, luxury, and sustainability. Though they share a common ethos, they cater to distinct desires and experiences. Driving these two marvels reveals just how multifaceted electric mobility can be.
Electrifying Performance
Imagine a car that combines the sleek design and performance prowess of the BMW M3 with the sustainability of an electric vehicle. Enter the BMW i4 xDrive M50. Priced at over P5 million, the i4 is more akin to an electric M3 rather than an M4, despite its swoopy four-door coupe roofline. This machine is all about delivering a thrilling driving experience without a drop of gasoline.
The i4’s design takes cues from the M3 and M4, especially their massive vertical grilles, which have grown on me over time. Its sharp and sporty aesthetic is complemented by subtle hints that it’s an EV. Step inside, and the interior continues this theme with a driver-centric cockpit that feels both futuristic and familiar. The handling is razor-sharp, and the acceleration is instantaneous, making it feel light and nimble—truly the perfect-sized BMW for me.
Under the hood, or rather beneath the floor, lies an 83.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that powers two electric motors—one on each axle. This setup delivers a whopping 544 horsepower and an astonishing 795 Nm of torque. The result? A blistering 0 to 100 km/h sprint in just 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h. These numbers aren’t just impressive for an electric vehicle; they’re impressive, period.
What sets the i4 apart is its driving dynamics. It’s proof that electric vehicles can be exhilarating. Every twist and turn is met with a responsive and agile chassis, making every drive a spirited experience. This car has made me aspire to ownership, not just for its sustainable credentials but for its sheer driving pleasure.
A Luxurious Odyssey
On the other side of the coin lies the BMW i7 xDrive60 Pure Excellence, the epitome of luxury in the electric era. With a price tag of P10,390,000, the i7 is positioned as the electric counterpart of the renowned 7 Series. It’s designed for those who demand the pinnacle of comfort and sophistication without compromising on performance.
The i7’s design exudes opulence. Its long, imposing sedan profile and huge bonnet give it an almost SAV-like presence on the road. The grille, though massive, becomes a secondary thought once you experience the sheer luxury inside. Crystal themes and touch-sensitive controls dominate the interior, creating an ambiance of futuristic elegance. Even the displays are a feast for the eyes, adding to the overall sense of high-end refinement.
One standout feature is the doors that automatically open and close at the touch of a button. Initially, this felt a bit over-the-top, but it quickly became a delightful convenience. The i7 is traditionally seen as a chauffeur-driven vehicle, and its rear seats are undoubtedly the best place to be. However, driving it is a pleasure in itself. The i7 feels like a car that bosses would want to drive themselves, thanks to its responsive handling and comfortable ride. The suspension system does an excellent job of smoothing out rough roads, ensuring a serene journey.
The i7 shares the same power output as the i4, with 544 horsepower, but with slightly lower torque at 745 Nm. Despite this, it’s no slouch, hitting 100 km/h from a standstill in 4.7 seconds. However, the real star of the show is its range—up to 625 km on a full charge, showcasing BMW’s advancements in battery technology.
Driving the i7, even for a short period of time, made me reflect on the intersection of luxury and technology. It’s a car that makes you ponder how to afford such splendor in one’s lifetime. It represents the zenith of what electric vehicles can offer—comfort, performance, and cutting-edge features all rolled into one.
Two Sides of the Same Coin
The BMW i4 and i7 embody two distinct interpretations of electric mobility. The i4 xDrive M50 is a celebration of performance, agility, and driver engagement. It’s a car that proves EVs can be as exciting as their gasoline-powered counterparts. On the other hand, the i7 xDrive60 Pure Excellence is a masterclass in luxury and innovation, offering an unparalleled level of comfort and sophistication.
Both vehicles showcase BMW’s dedication to creating electric cars that don’t just meet expectations but exceed them. They represent the brand’s dual commitment to driving pleasure and sustainable innovation. The i4 and i7 may be two sides of the same coin, but they cater to different facets of the automotive experience. Whether you’re seeking thrilling performance or luxurious comfort, BMW’s electric lineup has something exceptional to offer.
In the end, the choice between the i4 and the i7 comes down to what you value most in a car. Are you driven by the thrill of the drive, or do you seek the pinnacle of comfort and luxury? Whichever side of the coin you find yourself on, rest assured that BMW has created a masterpiece that will satisfy your desires. The future of driving is electric, and with the i4 and i7, it’s incredibly bright.
