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[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2020 BMW i3 gains a new Edition RoadStyle model with unique trim, but is otherwise unchanged. 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 optional gas engine extends the driving range further. There is also i3s sport model with more power (181 horsepower vs. 168 hp for the base i3); lowered, sport suspension with a wider track; and unique styling. The i3 makes extensive use of strong, lightweight Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic in its construction—its curb weight is around 3000 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.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Subcompact Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door hatchback |
| Passenger Count | 4 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | BMW |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | i3: $45,445 i3 w/Range Extender: $49,295 i3s: $48,645 i3s w/Range Extender: $52,495 Edition RoadStyle: NA |
| Base Engine electric motor (i3) |
| Horsepower 168 |
| Std. Transmission single-speed |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (MPGe) 124 |
| EPA Hwy Range (MPGe) 102 |
| Optional Engine electric motor/0.6-liter 2-cylinder engine (i3 w/Range Extender) |
| Horsepower 168 |
| Std. Transmission single-speed |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA Gas Engine Combined (mpg) 31 |
| EPA Electric Motor Combined (MPGe) 100 |
| Optional Engine electric motor (i3s) |
| Horsepower 181 |
| Std. Transmission single-speed |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (MPGe) 124 |
| EPA Hwy Range (MPGe) 102 |
| Optional Engine electric motor/0.6-liter 2-cylinder engine (i3s w/Range Extender) |
| Horsepower 181 |
| Std. Transmission single-speed |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA Gas Engine Combined (mpg) 31 |
| EPA Electric Motor (MPGe) 100 |
Preview Test Drive: 2014 BMW i3
BMW i3: Not Just Another Electric Car
Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast, Episode 8: Bullitt Mustang Auction, EV Tax Credits
Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast, Episode 9: Electric Car Myths Debunked, 2021 GMC Yukon
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