The 2022 BMW i4 is the brand’s first full-electric sedan entry into the market. It plays in a burgeoning field of luxury electric vehicles like the Polestar 2, the Kia EV6, and the Tesla Model 3. However, given its larger size, we figured that some EV shoppers could be comparing the i4 to the Tesla Model S at some point; so here are four advantages to buying an i4 over a Model S.

1. The 2022 BMW i4 is cheaper than the Tesla Model S

The main advantage that buyers will have in buying a 2022 BMW i4 over a Tesla Model S is that it’s cheaper. The i4 has a starting price of $55,900, while the base Model S is $94,000. Even when you opt for the highest trim level of the BMW i4 – the M50 – the price only jumps to around $77,000 with all of the boxes checked. On the other hand, the top-trim Model S Plaid costs over $125,000.

2. The BMW i4 has a more functional interior

Many EV shoppers will love the Tesla Model S’ sterile and minimalistic interior. They may even like the large 17-inch touchscreen that tilts left and right to face the driver or the passenger. However, some shoppers might prefer the BMW i4’s more functional interior. Or shall we say “more normal interior.”

The i4 is equipped with a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that shares a curved glass panel with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. There’s also a knob on the center console to control the iDrive 8.0 system and physical buttons on the steering wheel and dashboard to control audio functions. There’s nothing wrong with the Model S’ interior, but some may prefer the more normal feel of the BMW instead.

3. The BMW has Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity

Speaking of normalcy, the BMW i4 comes equipped with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. It’s a simple feature, but it’s one that is becoming more important as time goes on. Many drivers prefer to use these platforms over listening to satellite radio or using the onboard navigation system, especially if their phone never has to leave their pockets. The Tesla Model S still doesn’t have these features.

4. The i4 still comes with a $7,500 tax credit

While many EVs on the market, including the Tesla Model S, are no longer eligible for the federal EV tax credit, the BMW i4 is. Remember that low $55,000 price tag? Well, now it’s even lower. That means that you can easily purchase an i4 for half of the cost of a Tesla Model S.

2022 BMW i4 vs Tesla Model S

While there’s no doubt that the Tesla Model S is larger and faster than the BMW i4, there are some advantages to buying the latter. Anyone looking to purchase their first luxury electric vehicle will find that the i4 has a lot to offer in terms of performance, standard features, and value for the money. And when it comes to comparing it to the Model S in terms of value, there’s no question that the i4 is the one to pick.