If you're in the market for a premium electric car, you're faced with some interesting choices. Two of the most compelling options are the Kia EV6 and the BMW i4, but they go about the job in very different ways.
The EV6 is a futuristic-looking crossover, built from the ground up to be an EV. It promises space, practicality, and ultra-fast charging. The i4, on the other hand, is essentially an electric version of the sleek 4 Series Gran Coupe, focusing on delivering BMW's trademark driving pleasure in a zero-emission package. One is a forward-thinking family car, the other a traditional sports saloon with a battery. So, which is the better buy?
Kia EV6 vs BMW i4
- Practicality
- Driving Impressions
- Technology and Equipment
- Running Costs
- CarGurus Buyer Insights
- Verdict
Practicality
Kia EV6 practicality score: 4/5
BMW i4 practicality score: 3/5
This is a clear win for the Kia EV6. Because it was designed as an electric car from the outset, its long wheelbase and flat floor create a huge amount of interior space. There's plenty of head and legroom for all passengers, and the rear bench can comfortably seat three adults. The 490-litre boot is a good size, and you also get a useful storage area under the bonnet – a ‘frunk’ – which is perfect for stashing charging cables.
The BMW i4 is based on the petrol-powered 4 Series Gran Coupe, and that brings compromises. While its 470-litre boot is decent and has a practical hatchback opening, the swooping roofline eats into rear headroom, and legroom is tighter than in the EV6. It feels more like a conventional saloon inside, and there’s no frunk. For families prioritising space and versatility, the EV6 has a definite advantage.
Driving Impressions
Kia EV6 driving score: 5/5
BMW i4 driving score: 5/5
Both cars are excellent to drive, but they offer different experiences. The BMW i4 is the clear choice for the keen driver. It delivers the precise, engaging handling and beautifully weighted steering that BMW is famous for. It feels agile and responsive, and the brake pedal feel is among the best of any EV. It’s a car that feels sporty on a B-road but is also a refined and comfortable motorway cruiser.
The Kia EV6 is no slouch, with even the entry-level model offering brisk acceleration. It’s a comfortable and quiet car that’s easy to drive, but it can't match the BMW's dynamic polish. The steering is accurate but lacks the feedback and engagement of the i4, and it doesn't feel as composed through fast corners. While the high-performance EV6 GT is incredibly fast in a straight line, the i4 is the more rewarding car to drive on a twisty road.
Technology and Equipment
Kia EV6 technology and equipment score: 5/5
BMW i4 technology and equipment score: 4/5
Kia has a reputation for generous equipment levels, and the EV6 is a prime example. Every model gets a slick twin-screen setup for the infotainment and driver’s display, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a full suite of safety aids. Higher-spec models add desirable features like a 360-degree camera, a premium sound system, and an augmented reality head-up display. It’s an impressive package.
The BMW i4 has a high-quality cabin and a great infotainment system, complete with the user-friendly iDrive rotary controller. However, the standard equipment list is less generous. Desirable features like keyless entry, a heated steering wheel, and advanced driver assistance systems are often part of expensive optional packages. To get an i4 with the same level of kit as a mid-spec EV6, you’ll need to spend a considerable amount on extras.
Running Costs
Kia EV6 running costs score: 5/5
BMW i4 running costs score: 4/5
As electric cars, both the EV6 and i4 offer low day-to-day running costs compared to petrol or diesel equivalents, especially if you can charge at home on an off-peak tariff. The Kia, however, holds two significant advantages. First is its 800-volt electrical system, which allows for ultra-fast charging. At a powerful enough public charger, it can top up its battery from 10-80% in just 18 minutes.
The second advantage is Kia's industry-leading seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty. This provides exceptional long-term peace of mind and is a major selling point, particularly for used car buyers. The BMW comes with a standard three-year, unlimited-mileage warranty. While both cars are premium products with premium price tags, the Kia’s faster charging and longer warranty give it the edge in this category.
CarGurus Buyer Insights
| Kia EV6 | BMW i4 | |
|---|---|---|
| CarGurus expert rating | 5 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
| CarGurus user rating | 5.0 out of 5 | 3.0 out of 5 |
| Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus* | 27.5% | 35.2% |
| Overall CarGurus rating | 4.5 out of 5 | 4.2 out of 5 |
The Verdict
Kia EV6 Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5/5
BMW i4 Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2/5
This is a battle between two highly accomplished electric cars, but there can only be one winner. Based on our comprehensive CarGurus Buyer Insights, the Kia EV6 takes the victory. It’s a fantastic all-rounder that excels in the areas that matter most to many EV buyers.
The EV6 offers more space and practicality, comes with far more standard equipment, and has a longer warranty. Its ability to charge at ultra-fast speeds is a significant real-world advantage that makes long journeys easier. It also scores higher with CarGurus users and achieves a better overall rating.
That’s not to say the BMW i4 should be overlooked. If your top priority is an engaging driving experience, the i4 is the better car, delivering the handling and poise you’d expect from a BMW sports saloon. However, as a complete package, the Kia EV6’s blend of style, space, technology, and value for money makes it the winner of this comparison.
Kia EV6 Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious and practical interior | Not as engaging to drive as the BMW |
| Generously equipped as standard | Fiddly dual-function media/climate panel |
| Ultra-fast charging capability | Ride can be choppy over larger bumps |
BMW i4 Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Superb driving dynamics and handling | Cramped rear passenger space |
| High-quality, premium interior | Standard equipment is sparse for the price |
| Sleek coupe-like styling | Lacks the practicality of the EV6 |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.