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Charging Comparison

BMW i5 vs Kia EV4

Compared variants: eDrive40 Sedan vs Fastback 81.4 kWh

Updated April 2026

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Data shown is approximate and based on publicly available specifications and real-world estimates. For models with multiple battery versions, this page compares the variants listed above. Actual performance varies with driving conditions, temperature, state of charge, and charger hardware. Always check the manufacturer specification page and your vehicle's manual for official figures. EVcourse is not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer.

Quick verdict

The BMW i5 has the higher published DC charging figure at 206 kW, while the Kia EV4 is more efficient at approximately 144 Wh/km. The Kia EV4 offers more WLTP rated range at 633 km.

Side-by-Side Specs

Spec BMW i5 Kia EV4
Compared variant eDrive40 Sedan Fastback 81.4 kWh
Battery (approx.) ~81.2 kWh ~78 kWh
WLTP range (rated) ~580 km ~633 km
Efficiency (approx.) ~175 Wh/km ~144 Wh/km
DC fast charging (published) up to 206 kW up to 135 kW
10-80% charge time (approx.) ~29 min ~33 min
Max AC charging up to 11 kW (22 kW optional) up to 11 kW
DC connector CCS2 CCS2

Charging Speed

The BMW i5 has the higher published DC charging figure at 206 kW, which is roughly 53% higher than the Kia EV4 at 135 kW. In practice, that figure only tells part of the story. The charging curve, battery temperature, and state of charge all affect how quickly your car actually charges.

For the published fast-charge window, the BMW i5 is listed at about 29 minutes, which is 4 minutes quicker than the Kia EV4 at 33 minutes. On a road trip, that difference adds up over multiple stops.

Range and Efficiency

The Kia EV4 has a WLTP rated range of approximately 633 km, which is roughly 53 km more than the BMW i5 at approximately 580 km. WLTP is a standardized lab test. Expect your actual range to be lower, varying with speed, weather, terrain, and driving style.

Efficiency matters more than battery size for daily driving costs. The Kia EV4 consumes 144 Wh/km, compared to 175 Wh/km for the BMW i5. That means the Kia EV4 uses less energy per kilometer, which translates to lower charging costs and fewer charging stops on longer drives.

A more efficient car does not always mean more range. Battery size plays a role too. The Kia EV4 has approximately 78 kWh of useable battery , while the BMW i5 has approximately 81.2 kWh.

Which One Should You Choose?

If fast charging is your priority, the BMW i5 has the higher published DC figure (up to 206 kW) and the shorter published charge time at approximately 29 minutes. For long road trips, published stop time matters more than the headline kW number alone.

For AC charging (home wallboxes, workplace chargers, and public street chargers), the BMW i5 supports up to 11 kW (22 kW optional), compared to up to 11 kW for the Kia EV4. In Europe, many public chargers are 22 kW AC, so this difference can matter at those locations if the higher AC figure is fitted on the car you buy.

If you mostly charge at home or at work and care more about daily driving costs, the Kia EV4 is the more efficient choice at 144 Wh/km. Lower consumption means lower electricity bills over time.

For maximum range between charges, the Kia EV4 has a WLTP rated range of approximately 633 km, which is roughly 53 km more. Both are capable EVs. The best choice depends on how you charge and how far you drive.

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From Finn, engineer: Charging specs alone do not tell the full story. Real-world charging speed depends on battery temperature, state of charge, and the charger itself. These comparisons use manufacturer-published data. Approximate values only.

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