Charging Comparison
BMW i5 vs Kia EV4
Compared variants: eDrive40 Sedan vs Fastback 81.4 kWh
Updated April 2026
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 fast-charging figure at 205 kW, but the Kia EV4 actually finishes the 10-80% charge just as fast (24 min) in the current published data. The Kia EV4 is more efficient at approximately 158 Wh/km. The BMW i5 offers more WLTP rated range at 581 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) | ~581 km | ~580 km |
| Efficiency (approx.) | ~173 Wh/km | ~158 Wh/km |
| DC fast charging (published) | up to 205 kW | up to 200 kW |
| 10-80% charge time (approx.) | ~33 min | ~24 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 fast-charging figure at 205 kW, which is roughly 3% higher than the Kia EV4 at 200 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 10-80% charge (the most common DC fast charging scenario), the Kia EV4 finishes in about 24 minutes, which is 9 minutes quicker than the BMW i5 at 33 minutes. On a road trip, that difference adds up over multiple stops.
Range and Efficiency
The BMW i5 has a WLTP rated range of approximately 581 km, which is roughly 1 km more than the Kia EV4 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 158 Wh/km, compared to 173 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 BMW i5 has approximately 81.2 kWh of useable battery , while the Kia EV4 has approximately 78 kWh.
Which One Should You Choose?
The BMW i5 has the higher published DC figure at up to 205 kW, but the Kia EV4 actually finishes the 10-80% charge faster at approximately 24 minutes versus approximately 33 minutes. On road trips, published stop time matters more than the headline kW number alone.
Both cars support 11 kW AC charging, so home and workplace charging speeds will be similar.
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 158 Wh/km. Lower consumption means lower electricity bills over time.
For maximum range between charges, the BMW i5 has a WLTP rated range of approximately 581 km, which is roughly 1 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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