Pros: Availability of gasoline-engine “range extender” version; peppy acceleration with instantaneous throttle response; tall body build provides good headroom and legroom; relatively smooth ride for a subcompact-sized car
Cons: Limited driving range in pure-electric form; so-so cargo space; rear-hinged back doors aren’t as practical as traditional doors; some drivers may find it hard to adjust to the aggressive regenerative braking
CG Says: Aside from a limited-run Shadow Sport Edition model, the BMW i3 is unchanged for 2016. The i3 is a subcompact-sized 4-door hatchback that offers the choice of pure electric power, or electric power with a small 2-cylinder gasoline-engine “range extender.” The driving range solely on the electric motor is about 80-100 miles, according to BMW. The optional gas engine extends the driving range by another 80-100 miles. The i3 makes extensive use of strong, lightweight Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic in its construction—its curb weight is around 2700 pounds. Available features include a navigation system, sunroof, collision warning and mitigation systems, a rearview camera, and leather upholstery. Though it is not without its compromises, the i3’s peppy acceleration, forward-thinking styling, and BMW-bred driving personality should make it a compelling choice among electric- and green-vehicle shoppers.
| Class | Subcompact Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door hatchback |
| Passenger Count | 4 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacturer | Germany |
| Base Prices | Base: $42,400 Base w/ Range Extender: $46,250 |
| Base Engine electric motor |
| Horsepower 170 |
| Std. Transmission single speed |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (MPGe) 137 |
| EPA Hwy Range (MPGe) 111 |
| Optional Engine electric motor/0.6-liter 2-cylinder gas engine |
| Horsepower 170 |
| Std. Transmission single speed |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA Gas Engine (mpg) 39 city/hwy combined |
| EPA Electric Motor (MPGe) 117 city/hwy combined |
