2026 BMW i4 vs. 2027 BMW i5: Electric Sedan Comparison for Inland Empire Commuters
The 2026 BMW i4 Gran Coupe and the 2027 BMW i5 sedan are two of BMW’s all-electric sedans, and they share more than their badges. Both come in three trims (eDrive40, xDrive40 and M60), both use BMW’s Curved Display, and both top out at 593 hp. This comparison lays out the verified differences in price, range, charging, performance, space, technology and warranty so drivers in Riverside, Corona, Moreno Valley and nearby communities can decide which one fits their needs.
On range, the two are close: the i4 eDrive40 is rated at up to 333 EPA-estimated miles, and the 2027 i5 eDrive40 is rated at up to 328 EPA-estimated miles. The i4 is priced lower at every trim level, while the i5 offers more interior space and more standard equipment.
Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Range: Range figures are EPA estimates where published and BMW estimates, based on preliminary BMW AG testing to EPA procedures, where EPA figures are not yet available. Actual range varies with wheel and tire selection, driving style, accessory use, traffic, outside temperature and charging habits.
A note on model years: the i4 is currently offered as a 2026 model. The i5 eDrive40 and xDrive40 are 2027 models, and the i5 M60 continues as a 2026 model.
2026 BMW i4 vs. 2027 BMW i5 at a Glance
| 2026 BMW i4 | 2027 BMW i5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Body style | Gran Coupe (4-door hatchback) | Midsize sedan |
| Trims | eDrive40, xDrive40, M60 | eDrive40, xDrive40, M60 (2026 model year) |
| Starting price | $59,250 MSRP | $68,550 MSRP |
| Horsepower | 335–593 hp | 335–593 hp |
| Max range | Up to 333 miles (EPA-estimated) | Up to 328 miles (EPA-estimated) |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Charge port | CCS | Native NACS |
| Standard audio | 10-speaker | 12-speaker Harman Kardon |
MSRP: Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Range: Range figures are EPA estimates where published and BMW estimates, based on preliminary BMW AG testing to EPA procedures, where EPA figures are not yet available. Actual range varies with wheel and tire selection, driving style, accessory use, traffic, outside temperature and charging habits.
Performance: 0–60 mph times are BMW AG preliminary test results, provided for comparison only. Actual results vary with vehicle specification, road and environmental conditions and driving style, and should not be attempted on public roads. Maximum horsepower is available in Sport mode. The i5 M60’s 605 lb-ft torque figure applies when M Sport Boost or M Launch Control is active.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: BMW i5, fueleconomy.gov, Autoblog: 2027 BMW i5
Pricing and Trim Levels
| Trim | 2026 BMW i4 | 2027 BMW i5 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| eDrive40 (RWD) | $59,250 MSRP | $68,550 MSRP | $9,300 |
| xDrive40 (AWD) | $63,650 MSRP | $71,550 MSRP | $7,900 |
| M60 (AWD) | $72,050 MSRP | $85,550 MSRP (2026 model year) | $13,500 |
Both lineups follow the same structure: a rear-wheel-drive eDrive40, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive xDrive40 and a performance-focused M60. The i4 is priced lower at each level, with the gap ranging from $7,900 at the xDrive40 level to $13,500 between the M60 models. The i5’s higher price brings a larger midsize body and more standard equipment, including 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio. Moving from eDrive40 to xDrive40 adds $4,400 on the i4 and $3,000 on the i5. For a closer look at the i4 lineup, see our 2026 BMW i4 overview.
Key difference: The i4 has the lower entry price. The i5’s premium covers a larger body and additional standard features.
MSRP: Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4 M60, BMW USA: BMW i5, BMW USA: BMW i5 M60, InsideEVs: 2027 BMW i5, U.S. News: 2026 BMW i4
Electric Range and Efficiency
| Trim | i4 Range | i4 EPA-Estimated MPGe (Combined) | i5 Range | i5 EPA-Estimated MPGe (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eDrive40 | 307–333 miles | 108–118 | 299–328 miles | 106–116 |
| xDrive40 | 268–287 miles | 94–101 | 259–278 miles | Not yet published |
| M60 | 232–278 miles | Not yet published | 259–277 miles | Not yet published |
Range is closely matched across the two lineups, and wheel size has a larger effect than model choice. The i4 eDrive40 is rated at 307–333 EPA-estimated miles depending on wheel size, and the 2027 i5 eDrive40 at 299–328 EPA-estimated miles. EPA-estimated efficiency is also similar: up to 118 MPGe combined for the i4 eDrive40 and up to 116 MPGe combined for the 2027 i5 eDrive40.
Key difference: The eDrive40 models are within 5 miles of each other at their maximum ratings. The i5 M60 has a higher minimum range than the i4 M60.
Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Range: Range figures are EPA estimates where published and BMW estimates, based on preliminary BMW AG testing to EPA procedures, where EPA figures are not yet available. Actual range varies with wheel and tire selection, driving style, accessory use, traffic, outside temperature and charging habits.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4 M60, BMW USA: BMW i5, BMW USA: BMW i5 M60, fueleconomy.gov, U.S. News: 2026 BMW i4
Charging
| 2026 BMW i4 | 2027 BMW i5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Onboard AC charger | 11 kW | 11 kW |
| Home charge, 0–100% (240V) | Under 10 hours | Under 10 hours |
| Peak DC fast charging | Up to 200 kW | Up to 205 kW |
| DC fast charge, 10–80% | About 31 minutes (i4 M60) | About 30 minutes |
| Charge port | CCS (Tesla Superchargers via BMW-approved adapter or Magic Dock) | Native NACS (CCS and J1772 adapters included) |
Both models use an 11-kW onboard charger for Level 2 home charging and can fully charge in under 10 hours on a 240V circuit. At DC fast chargers, the i4 accepts up to 200 kW and the i5 up to 205 kW, with 10%–80% charging times of about 30–31 minutes for both. The biggest practical difference is the charge port: the 2027 i5 has a native NACS port, while the i4 uses a CCS port and a BMW-approved adapter at Tesla Superchargers.
Key difference: Charging speeds are similar. The i5’s native NACS port removes the need for an adapter at Tesla Superchargers.
Charging: Charging times are estimates and vary with charger output, battery temperature, state of charge and other conditions. Installation of a 240V outlet or home charger requires a certified electrician.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4 M60, BMW USA: BMW i5, Autoblog: 2027 BMW i5, InsideEVs: 2027 BMW i5
Performance
| Trim | i4 Output | i4 0–60 mph | i5 Output | i5 0–60 mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eDrive40 (RWD) | 335 hp / 317 lb-ft | 5.5 sec | 335 hp / 295 lb-ft | 5.4 sec |
| xDrive40 (AWD) | 396 hp / 443 lb-ft | 4.9 sec | 389 hp / 435 lb-ft | 4.9 sec |
| M60 (AWD) | 593 hp / 586 lb-ft | 3.6 sec | 593 hp / 586 lb-ft (605 lb-ft with M Sport Boost) | 3.7 sec |
Power output is closely matched trim for trim. Both eDrive40 models make 335 hp, both xDrive40 models reach 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, and both M60 models make 593 hp. The i4 makes more torque at the eDrive40 and xDrive40 levels, while the i5 M60 can reach 605 lb-ft with M Sport Boost or M Launch Control active.
Key difference: Acceleration is within 0.1 seconds at every trim level. The i4 offers more torque in its eDrive40 and xDrive40 trims.
Performance: 0–60 mph times are BMW AG preliminary test results, provided for comparison only. Actual results vary with vehicle specification, road and environmental conditions and driving style, and should not be attempted on public roads. Maximum horsepower is available in Sport mode. The i5 M60’s 605 lb-ft torque figure applies when M Sport Boost or M Launch Control is active.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4 M60, BMW USA: BMW i5, BMW USA: BMW i5 M60, BMW M: i5 M60 xDrive, CarsDirect: 2026 BMW i4 specs, CarsDirect: BMW i5 specs
Size and Passenger Space
Exterior Dimensions
| 2026 BMW i4 | 2027 BMW i5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 188.5 in | 199.2 in |
| Width | 72.9 in | 74.8 in |
| Height | 57.0 in | 59.6 in |
| Wheelbase | 112.4 in | 117.9 in |
Interior Space and Cargo
| 2026 BMW i4 | 2027 BMW i5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Front headroom / legroom | 38.2 in / 41.5 in | 39.1 in / 41.3 in |
| Front shoulder room | 55.2 in | 59.2 in |
| Rear headroom / legroom | 36.6 in / 34.2 in | 37.7 in / 37.0 in |
| Rear shoulder room | 54.3 in | 56.9 in |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 16.6 cu ft | 17.3 cu ft |
| Cargo access | Hatchback, 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat | Trunk, folding rear seats |
The i5 is the larger car, measuring 10.7 inches longer on a wheelbase that’s 5.5 inches longer than the i4’s. That extra length shows up most in the back seat, where the i5 offers 2.8 more inches of legroom and 1.1 more inches of headroom. Front-seat dimensions are within about an inch of each other, apart from the i5’s 4 extra inches of front shoulder room.
Cargo space is similar in volume but different in shape. The i5’s trunk holds 17.3 cubic feet, and the i4 holds 16.6 cubic feet behind its rear seats. The i4’s hatchback opening and 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat make it easier to load tall or bulky items, and the i5’s rear seats also fold to extend its trunk.
Key difference: The i5 has more rear-seat room. The i4’s hatchback design offers more loading flexibility.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: BMW i5, Kelley Blue Book: 2026 BMW i4, CarsDirect: 2026 BMW i4 specs, CarsDirect: BMW i5 specs
Technology and Audio
| 2026 BMW i4 | 2027 BMW i5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | BMW Curved Display: 12.3-in cluster + 14.9-in touchscreen | BMW Curved Display: 12.3-in cluster + 14.9-in touchscreen |
| Smartphone integration | Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Wireless charging pad | Standard | Standard |
| Standard audio | 10-speaker | 12-speaker Harman Kardon |
| Available audio | Harman Kardon (Premium Package) | 18-speaker, 655-watt Bowers & Wilkins |
| Interior lighting | Ambient lighting | BMW Interaction Bar with touch controls |
| Upholstery | Perforated SensaTec (Canberra Beige, Tacora Red, Cognac, Black); Vernasca leather available | Perforated and quilted Veganza (Smoke White, Burgundy Red, Espresso Brown, Black) |
Both models share BMW’s Curved Display, which pairs a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch touchscreen, along with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto and a wireless charging pad. The main differences are audio and interior details.
Key difference: The i5 includes Harman Kardon audio as standard. The i4 offers it as an option.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: BMW i5, U.S. News: 2026 BMW i4, Autoblog: 2027 BMW i5
Driver Assistance
| 2026 BMW i4 | 2027 BMW i5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Forward collision warning + automatic emergency braking | Standard | Standard |
| Blind-spot detection | Standard | Standard |
| Lane keeping assistance | Standard | Standard |
| Driving Assistance Professional Package | Available | Available (includes Highway Assistant) |
Both models include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot detection and lane keeping assistance as standard. Both also offer the Driving Assistance Professional Package. On the i5, that package includes Highway Assistant, which allows hands-free driving at speeds up to 85 mph on controlled-access highways while the driver remains attentive.
Key difference: Standard driver assistance is comparable. BMW lists Highway Assistant for the i5.
Driver Assistance: Driver assistance features do not replace the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle safely. Highway Assistant requires the driver to remain attentive and ready to take over, operates only on compatible controlled-access highways, and may be affected by weather, traffic, road conditions, cellular service and map data.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: BMW i5, U.S. News: 2026 BMW i4
Warranty Coverage
| Coverage | 2026 BMW i4 | 2027 BMW i5 |
|---|---|---|
| New Vehicle Limited Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| High-voltage battery | 8 years / 100,000 miles | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| Rust perforation | 12 years / unlimited miles | 12 years / unlimited miles |
| BMW Roadside Assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles | 4 years / unlimited miles |
Both models carry identical BMW factory coverage.
Warranty: Warranty coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and limitations of BMW’s written warranties. See BMW’s Service and Warranty Information or visit our dealership for complete details.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: BMW i5, BMW USA: Service and Warranty Information
Frequently Asked Questions: 2026 BMW i4 vs. 2027 BMW i5
Is the 2026 BMW i4 worth choosing over the 2027 BMW i5 for daily commuting?
It depends on your priorities. The i4 eDrive40 starts at $59,250 MSRP, $9,300 less than the i5 eDrive40, and its smaller footprint can make parking easier. The i5 eDrive40 offers nearly the same range, more rear-seat room and standard Harman Kardon audio. Drivers who regularly carry adult passengers may prefer the i5, while those focused on price and maneuverability may prefer the i4.
Which vehicle offers more functional cargo space for families?
The i5’s trunk holds 17.3 cubic feet, slightly more than the 16.6 cubic feet behind the i4’s rear seats. The i4’s hatchback opening and 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats make loading tall or bulky items like strollers easier, while the i5’s rear seats also fold to extend its trunk.
What is the maximum driving range available on the 2026 BMW i4 compared to the 2027 i5?
The 2026 i4 eDrive40 is rated at up to 333 EPA-estimated miles on 18-inch wheels. The 2027 i5 eDrive40 is rated at up to 328 EPA-estimated miles on 19-inch wheels. That’s a 5-mile difference, and wheel size affects range on both models.
How fast can you charge the 2026 BMW i4 at a DC fast charging station?
The i4 accepts DC fast charging at up to 200 kW, and BMW quotes about 31 minutes for a 10%–80% charge on the i4 M60. For comparison, the 2027 i5 accepts up to 205 kW and charges from 10%–80% in about 30 minutes. At home, both use an 11-kW onboard charger and can fully charge in under 10 hours on a 240V circuit.
MSRP: Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Range: Range figures are EPA estimates where published and BMW estimates, based on preliminary BMW AG testing to EPA procedures, where EPA figures are not yet available. Actual range varies with wheel and tire selection, driving style, accessory use, traffic, outside temperature and charging habits.
Charging: Charging times are estimates and vary with charger output, battery temperature, state of charge and other conditions. Installation of a 240V outlet or home charger requires a certified electrician.
Which Should You Choose?
| Consider the 2026 BMW i4 if you want… | Consider the 2027 BMW i5 if you want… |
|---|---|
| A lower price at every trim level | More rear-seat legroom and headroom |
| A hatchback with 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats | A larger midsize sedan body |
| A more compact footprint for parking | Standard 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio |
| More torque in eDrive40 and xDrive40 trims | A native NACS charge port |
Neither model is the better car across the board; each is built for a different set of priorities. The best way to decide is to drive both back to back. Visit BMW of Riverside at 3060 Adams St, Riverside, CA 92504, or call our sales team at (888) 713-6529. Drivers from Corona, Chino Hills, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino, Ontario and Norco can compare both models in one visit. To compare other BMW models, explore our BMW research center.
Disclaimers
MSRP: Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Range: Range figures are EPA estimates where published and BMW estimates, based on preliminary BMW AG testing to EPA procedures, where EPA figures are not yet available. Actual range varies with wheel and tire selection, driving style, accessory use, traffic, outside temperature and charging habits.
Performance: 0–60 mph times are BMW AG preliminary test results, provided for comparison only. Actual results vary with vehicle specification, road and environmental conditions and driving style, and should not be attempted on public roads. Maximum horsepower is available in Sport mode. The i5 M60’s 605 lb-ft torque figure applies when M Sport Boost or M Launch Control is active.
Charging: Charging times are estimates and vary with charger output, battery temperature, state of charge and other conditions. Installation of a 240V outlet or home charger requires a certified electrician.
Driver Assistance: Driver assistance features do not replace the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle safely. Highway Assistant requires the driver to remain attentive and ready to take over, operates only on compatible controlled-access highways, and may be affected by weather, traffic, road conditions, cellular service and map data.
Warranty: Warranty coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and limitations of BMW’s written warranties. See BMW’s Service and Warranty Information or visit our dealership for complete details.
Sources: BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4, BMW USA: 2026 BMW i4 M60, BMW USA: BMW i5, BMW USA: BMW i5 M60, BMW M: i5 M60 xDrive, fueleconomy.gov, U.S. News: 2026 BMW i4, Kelley Blue Book: 2026 BMW i4, CarsDirect: 2026 BMW i4 specs, CarsDirect: BMW i5 specs, Autoblog: 2027 BMW i5, InsideEVs: 2027 BMW i5, BMW USA: Service and Warranty Information