If there’s one thing everyone has, it’s an opinion.
And few things split opinions quite like the grille on recent BMWs.
First seen on the 4 Series in 2020, the vertically exaggerated kidney design has since become a hallmark of several models including the M3, M4 and i4.
Polarising to some and iconic to others, its designer Domagoj Dukec defended it as a move to create stronger emotional identity in a crowded global market.
While the grille sparked debate, later updates — including toned-down finishes and alternative trims — have helped ease some of the initial criticisms.
But the winds of change are already blowing. BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse range — shaped under Dukec’s design leadership before his reassignment to Rolls-Royce — signals a shift towards a cleaner, more restrained visual language for the brand’s next generation of electric vehicles.
That makes the current i4 likely among the last sedans in BMW’s current EV lineup to wear the oversized grille, a design choice that may, in time, be seen as a distinctive, if divisive, chapter in the brand’s design evolution.
Visual design aside, the 2025 i4 eDrive35 M Sport has undergone a purposeful refresh, consolidating its local line-up from four to a single, high-value spec variant priced at RM294,800 — or RM315,600 with the extended five-year warranty and service package.
BMW Malaysia has likely retained only this version to maintain competitive EV pricing under local incentives.
Mechanically, the rear-mounted motor continues to produce the same output and torque but improved efficiency sees a modest range increase of 17km to 500km (WLTP). Charging hardware is unchanged: the 70.3kWh battery supports 180kW DC fast charging (10–80% in 32 minutes) and 11kW AC charging (full charge in about 7 hours).
Styling updates include a revised kidney grille that is now partially enclosed, featuring a new pattern with matte chrome contouring and a honeycomb finish. Also new are Adaptive LED headlights with L-shaped DRLs and laser-style taillights — previously exclusive to M models.
Fresh 19-inch bicolour M Aerodynamic wheels replace the outgoing 18-inch design.
The hockey stick trim on the flanks, reminiscent of the chrome blade of the 2015 7 Series, looks visually cluttered — we’re partial to cleaner, more geometric body lines.
Inside, updates like a flat-bottomed M Sport steering wheel and ambient lighting tweaks add polish.
The M PerformTex material was adopted for sustainability as it reduces CO2 emissions, cutting usage from 52kg to just 18kg.
The BMW Curved Display — a 12.3-inch digital cluster joined to a 14.9-inch touchscreen — is complemented by a configurable Head-Up Display.
Standard kit remains generous: Driving Assistant, Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View, Remote 3D View, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Lane Departure Warning with Lane Return. Two new paint colours, Cape York Green and Fire Red, expand the palette to seven.
This i4 blends spirited performance with everyday usability. Its sleek liftback body hides a generous boot — though not a frunk.
Built on BMW’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR), originally meant for combustion engine vehicles, the i4 sacrifices a frunk, as the space beneath the bonnet houses an array of electronics, cooling systems and ancillaries.
On the road, the i4 feels composed and confidence-inspiring.
With 282hp and 400Nm sent to the rear wheels, it accelerates briskly (0–100 kph in about six seconds) and remains stable at high speeds — even in pelting rain, thanks to grippy Hankook tyres. The M Sport suspension sharpens agility, but the ride is firm over uneven surfaces.
Steering is light and precise, though somewhat lacking in feedback.
Energy use averaged 19kWh/100km in mixed driving, well within the efficient range of this type of car.
Cabin comfort is solid up front, with supportive seats suited to long drives and easy-to-use digital interfaces.
The rear is less accommodating — tight for taller passengers due to the sloping roof and transmission tunnel.
Features like wireless charging, adaptive regenerative braking add convenience, but details like plasticky window switches and a decent but unremarkable audio system slightly dull the premium impression.
Grille or no grille, the i4 remains a conspicuous choice for those seeking an electric Bimmer that delivers premium polish and everyday punch — with a bit of design controversy thrown in for good measure.
SPECIFICATIONS
BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport
Electric motor: Single electrically excited synchronous motor, rear-mounted
Maximum power: 210kW/282hp
Maximum torque: 400Nm
Battery capacity & type: 70.3 kWh, Lithium-ion
Range: 500km (WLTP)
Charger Type: Type 2 (AC) / CCS2 (DC)
Transmission: Single speed automatic
Features: 6 airbags, rear-wheel drive, surround View Camera, 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen control display, three-zone automatic climate control, 4 drive modes, power-adjustable rear seat backrest, 5 USB ports, adaptive LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, BMW IconicSounds Electric, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, wireless phone charging, 19-inch M aerodynamic wheels, tyre repair kit
Normal charging (AC, 11kW 0-100%): 7 hours
Quick Charging (DC, 180kW 10-80%): 32 mins
Suspension: MacPherson Struts (front)/Multilink (rear)
Acceleration (0-100kph): 6.0s
Top speed: 190kph
Kerb weight: 2,075kg
Boot capacity: 470l
Price: (OTR without insurance): RM294,800 (standard 2 years and unlimited mileage, whichever comes first), add RM20,800 for 5-year extended warranty and service package
