2022 BMW i4 vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2021 BMW 5 Series presented a restrained design, distinguishing itself from other BMW sedans with its understated elegance. It underwent a minor styling refresh, resulting in a sleeker appearance. The standard LED headlights were more streamlined, and the twin-kidney grille was enlarged, though not excessively so. The M Sport Package introduced trapezoidal tailpipes, L-shaped taillights, and updated bumpers. Despite being 1.2 inches longer, the 5 Series maintained a commendable drag coefficient of 0.27. Inside, the familiar BMW layout remained, with specific design elements like the touchscreen positioning and shifter style reinforcing the brand's identity. While the interior materials varied by trim, the Nappa leather option in the 540i xDrive test car added a touch of luxury, though the sport steering wheel felt somewhat out of place.

The 2022 BMW i4's styling closely resembled the gasoline 4 Series Gran Coupe, featuring an oversized grille that could polarize opinions. It boasted improved aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 for the base eDrive40 and 0.25 for the M50. BMW achieved this through design tweaks like a smooth underbody and active grille flaps. The i4's interior balanced minimalism with traditional BMW elements, featuring a freestanding screen and familiar controls. Material quality met BMW's standards, though leather upholstery wasn't standard. The seating position was low, and while the interior felt open, the seats lacked expected bolstering. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, and the absence of a front trunk was notable.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a range of powertrains, starting with the 530i's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The 540i featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 335 hp and 362 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with rear-wheel drive. The M550i xDrive boasted a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 532 hp, while the M5's V8 reached 617 hp. The 530e plug-in hybrid combined a 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor, offering 288 hp and a zero to 60 mph time of 5.7 seconds.

The 2022 BMW i4 eDrive40 delivered 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, reaching zero to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The M50 model's two-motor powertrain produced 536 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The i4's handling was enhanced by a low center of gravity and rear air suspension. The M50 featured adaptive M suspension and sport brakes. The Dynamic Handling Package improved the eDrive40's ride quality, making it smooth and responsive. The i4's regenerative braking system offered a natural pedal feel, though the adaptive recuperation system was less predictable.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available as a four-door sedan, offered spacious front seats and adequate rear-seat room. The 540i's trunk provided 14.0 cubic feet of space, surpassing some rivals. The test car featured 16-way power front seats with various adjustments, though forward visibility was limited. A surround-view camera system aided parking.

The 2022 BMW i4's seating position was low, but visibility was good. The fastback roof limited headroom, and the interior felt open despite limited side glass. The center console was efficiently designed, but the seats lacked bolstering. The i4 offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, less than competitors, and lacked a front trunk. The rear seats folded for additional cargo capacity.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with iDrive 7 and a digital instrument cluster. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. The rotary knob controller was user-friendly, though gesture controls were less precise.

The 2022 BMW i4 showcased the iDrive8 system with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and OTA updates. The rotary controller and voice recognition system enhanced usability, making the touchscreen largely unnecessary.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS for the 2020 model. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

The 2022 BMW i4's crash-test ratings were unavailable. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistance Professional Package added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Parking Assistant Package offered a 360-degree camera system and parking assistance.