BMW boosts i4 line-up for 2025 with even more powerful M60 xDrive variant, range upgrades


Remember BMW’s first “M” electric car—the i4 M50 xDrive? BMW is updating this model by giving it more power and a bigger number: i4 M60 xDrive. Alongside the new M-badged variant, BMW has given standard i4 models some mechanical updates for improved efficiency, resulting in batter range. 

But first, the BMW i4 M60 xDrive. It’s still a similar dual motor set up, but now boasts 601 hp of outputs – that is 57 hp more than the previous i4 M50. Power is sent to all four wheels and sprints from 0-100 km/h in just under 3.7 seconds (previously 3.9 seconds). No change in battery size was mentioned, so it should still be the same 83.9 kWh (80.7 kWh nett) lithium-ion battery that is capable of 433 km WLTP range – a slight increase from the previous 413 km.

BMW i4 M50 in Malaysia

The increase in range is courtesy to a new silicon carbide semiconductor components in the power electronics (SiC inverter), which is also made available on the rest of the i4 line-up. This new component is said to improve efficiency of the vehicles by 4.5%.

With these updates, the i4 eDrive35 is now capable of 428 km WLTP range (previously 386 km) while the i4 eDrive40 is now capable of 510 km WLTP range (previously 468 km). BMW did not mention any battery size changes or performance upgrades regarding these standard models, which means the eDrive35 should continue to soldier on with its 70.3 kWh (67.1 kWh net) battery pack, and the eDrive40 with its larger 83.9 kWh (81.3 kWh net) battery.

RELATED: 2025 BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport in Malaysia – facelifted design, more range, RM316k

Another key update to note is the upcoming Digital Key enhancement, rolling out to various models starting August 2025. This update introduces a simplified setup process using a new setup card. Drivers can easily activate the Digital Key by scanning the NFC setup card or the QR code on the back of their phone using the My BMW app, allowing them to use their smartphones as keys with greater convenience.

The BMW iDrive 9 infotainment operating system has also been updated with support for Amazon Alexa. Drivers can now link their Amazon Alexa account to the BMW Intelligent Persona Assistant for greater connectivity.

In selected countries, drivers can also use Zoom for video conferencing on the curved screen display while stationary. Of course when the vehicle starts moving, the app will automatically deactivate to avoid unnecessary distractions while driving.

ALSO READ: 2025 BMW M2 CS unleashed with 530 hp straight-6 engine – but only in automatic