Peter Lyon
August 2, 2023
BMW fans listen up. The legendary German brand’s new electric i4 eDrive35 and i4 eDrive35 M Sport have just gone on sale in Malaysia. These are new models that have been added to the lineup, which already includes the i4 eDrive40 and i4 M50. Prices start at RM258,210 for the eDrive35 model and will increase to RM273,800 if you choose the brand’s Extended Warranty & Service Package.
Positioned below the gutsier i4 eDrive40 and i4 M50, the i4 eDrive35 is the new “entry-level.” The former has the same edgy, athletic styling as the more expensive models, including LED headlights, and LED rear lights. That ‘stretched’ signature kidney grille, however, is controversial with some punters saying it looks like rabbit’s teeth or a koala nose. The car itself is arguably the best electric car BMW has launched so far but I’m afraid I have to agree with some of those critics on the grille styling.
Some 18-inch double-spoke light alloys have been fitted to the base i4 eDrive35 while the M Sport gets 18-inch M aerodynamic rims. For the body colour, customers can choose from a selection of Black Sapphire, Skyscraper Grey, Mineral White, Sanremo Green, and Aventurine Red.
Powering the i4 eDrive35 in the Malaysia market will be a single motor setup that sends 286 hp and 400 Nm to the rear wheels. This powertrain will jump from 0-100km/h time of just 6.0 seconds while BMW claims its 67 kWh battery can cover 483 km (WLTP). However, in the real world, we’d estimate a figure closer to 400km—which is still good. When fully depleted, the battery can be charged at a maximum rate of 11 kW AC and at 180 kW DC.
The cabin employs BMW’s signature iDrive infotainment system, together with the new Curved Display and a sporty leather steering wheel.
For the base RM258,210 price, the i4 eDrive35’s comes complete with the BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience that offers a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, with a Free Scheduled Service Programme, and an 8-year or 160,000 km battery warranty, or whichever comes first.
OUR THOUGHTS
As mentioned above, we think the i4 is one of the best EVs out there in terms of performance and handling, but that front-end design leaves a little to be desired—yes, we are talking about the grille. Apart from that, however, you can’t fault the car with its competitive range, top cabin quality and keen pricing.
