There are several super-expensive luxury electric cars, so we’re especially glad to see the 2025 BMW i4 and 2025 Polestar 2, a couple of less pricey yet still luxurious zero-emission rides. Each car represents the traditional values of its makers. The i4 is engaging for the driver, fitted with up-to-the-minute tech, efficient, and with a certain look. The Polestar 2 takes elements from its parent company Volvo (like a pleasing design philosophy), yet also acknowledges Polestar’s history of creating go-faster Volvo cars.
A wheel-to-wheel comparison is the obvious next move.
2025 BMW i4
We’ve called the BMW i4 the “3 Series for the 21st century” because it offers the kind of performance, comfort, and technology we expect from the iconic 3 Series. Even if it does look more like the 4-door Gran Coupe version of the 4 Series. The i4 launched for 2022 and this year sees thinner headlights, along with new taillights offering Laserlight technology. There are fresh metallic paint colors (Cape York Green and Vegas Red), plus a standard matte chrome surround for the double-kidney grille.
The entry-level i4 eDrive35 packs an excellent and responsive 282-horsepower rear motor, enabling a sprint time from a standstill to 60 mph in a respectable 5.8 seconds. Move up the model ladder and those power numbers increase as the acceleration times decrease, topping out at 536 hp and 3.7 seconds in the dual-motor M50. The maximum range is estimated at 307 miles, which is achieved by the dual-motor i4 xDrive40. The dual-motor i4 M50 manages 269 miles.
Climbing into the cabin, the Curved Display attracts immediate attention, a reminder that the i4 is a tech-savvy driver’s dream. However, there’s also an impressive amount of room for passengers, and the cargo area has ample space.
BMW i4 Highlights
iDrive 8.5: This latest iteration of BMW’s user-friendly infotainment system includes voice control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto phone integration, USB-C ports, and over-the-air updates.
Superior sound: The BMW i4 offers a 16-speaker/464-watt Harman Kardon surround-sound system, which delivers the audio quality expected in a high-tech luxury EV.
Smart lights: Adaptive headlights adjust their beams automatically to prevent other drivers from being dazzled, while the Laserlight component provides maximum illumination. These are optional with the i4.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the i4 models near you.
2025 Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 arrived for the 2021 model year. There’s only one version for 2025. Last year, this would have been the top-of-the-line variant with all the option packages. Now it’s all standard. This much equipment and power helps justify the price. Vapor, a silvery hue with blue-green undertones, becomes a new standard color, while Storm (a dark aluminum-type finish) joins the options list.
This all-electric hatchback features a coupe-style SUV shape; Polestar calls it a “5-door fastback.” Like the BMW i4, there’s a flexible cargo area instead of a traditional trunk. Up to five occupants have sufficient space to get comfortable on vegan “leather” or the genuine article. There’s also plenty of technology to keep them both safe and entertained during any length of trip.
The 2025 Polestar 2 EV arrives solely as a dual-motor model. Its output is a meaty 476 hp, and all-wheel drive (AWD) is standard. The run to 60 mph only takes about four seconds flat, and its maximum range is an EPA-tested 254 miles.
Polestar 2 Highlights
Easy fix: Perhaps one of the Polestar 2’s most unusual aspects is the ability to replace individual lithium-ion battery cells. If one fails, it can be swapped out rather than having to replace the entire battery pack (a much costlier proposition).
Performance Pack: Now standard, this bundle adds Öhlins adjustable shock absorbers and Brembo brakes, putting its handling on par with the BMW i4 M50. These third-party companies have forged strong reputations through motorsport. The pack also includes 20-inch alloy wheels and gold-colored seat belts.
Impressive sound: A 13-speaker/600-watt system designed by Harman Kardon specifically for the Polestar 2 is included.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Polestar 2 models near you.
Similarities
Although the BMW i4 looks most like a sedan and the Polestar 2 has an SUV vibe, both can be called liftback sedans. To our eyes, each car has an appealing exterior design, a relatively spacious interior, and the potential for superb performance. Charging times are similar — about a half-hour to go from 10% to 80% capacity using a DC fast charger.
Pricing
New 2025 Polestar 2 Prices
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Retail Price
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Fair Purchase Price (92620)
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|---|---|---|---|---|
$66,200 |
TBD |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 BMW i4 vehicles and New 2025 Polestar 2 vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 BMW i4 | 2025 Polestar 2 | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | Single electric motor | Dual electric motors |
| Horsepower | 282 hp | 476 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 546 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic | Single-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 117 city/114 highway/116 combined MPGe | 95 city/87 highway/91combined MPGe |
| Max Range | 301 miles (single motor), 307 miles (dual motors) | 254 miles |
| Also Available | Dual electric motors | |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years/100,000 miles | 8 years/100,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety Rating | N/R | 5-Star |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 112.4 inches | 107.7 inches |
| Overall Length | 188.5 inches | 181.4 inches |
| Width | 72.9 inches | 73.2 inches |
| Height | 56.8 inches | 58.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 41.0 feet | 37.7 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.2 inches | 41.3 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 36.6 inches | 37.0 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.5 inches | 42.2 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 34.2 inches | 33.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 55.2 inches | 54.6 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 54.3 inches | 52.6 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 16.6 cubic feet | 14.4 cubic feet |
Conclusion
As much as we like the Polestar 2’s Volvo-esque styling and build quality, its higher starting price and lower maximum range put it at a disadvantage against the BMW i4. The i4 has a choice of variants (including one that can compete with the 2025 Polestar 2), plus that special BMW driver involvement. Making the 2025 BMW i4 the winner of this matchup has been an easy decision.
