Yahoo Autos Editors’ Picks September 2022 | A spunky performance crossover and an electric BMW
This month sees us award Editors' Picks status to some intriguing new metal rolling into dealership lots and an old favorite. The Kona is a splendid little crossover on its own, but after trying out the N model, it's clear that Hyundai's N division isn't messing around. And then there's the new electric 4 Series, otherwise known as the i4. Luxury, electric sedans that are reasonably affordable are shockingly still thin on the ground these days, but BMW's first entry to this market is a good one. Lastly, there's the Lexus LC 500, a car that needs no introduction.
In case you missed our previous Editors' Picks posts, here’s a quick refresher on what’s going on here. We rate all the new cars we drive with a 1-10 score. Cars that are exemplary in their respective segments get Editors’ Pick status. Those are the ones we’d recommend to our friends, family and anybody who’s curious and asks the question. The list that you’ll find below consists of every car we rated in September that earned an Editors’ Pick.
2022 BMW i4
Quick take: The i4 is a lovely luxury electric sportback with great handling, lots of speed, a nice BMW interior and impressive EV tech. We only wish its infotainment system were more user-friendly.
Score: 8.0
What it competes with: Polestar 2, Tesla Model 3
Pros: M50 is wicked-quick, utilitarian with a hatchback, excellent handling, solid EV tech
Cons: Looks aren't for everyone, frustrating infotainment system, limited backseat space
From the editors:
Road Test Editor Zac Palmer — "I drove the M50 version of the i4, and the performance is shocking. This EV has acceleration to match or better an M4. Meanwhile, its chassis and suspension setup is more compliant and daily driver-friendly like an M440i Gran Coupe. I really came to like the i4 over the course of a weekend with it, as the car seems like an ideal EV for someone who wants performance, luxury that can be enjoyed without any major drawbacks.
Senior Editor James Riswick — "It's easy to dismiss the i4 because its just an electric 4 Series Gran Coupe, but look at the numbers. The combination of performance, range and price is hard to beat in a car that's actually luxurious. It deserves more attention than it gets.
In-depth analysis: 2022 BMW i4 Review | Pleasingly normal, delightfully fast
2022 Hyundai Kona N
Quick take: The Kona N is a silly and fun car to drive, and while its interior is subpar, being behind the wheel is going to make any enthusiast smile.
Score: 7.5
