BMW i3
BMW i3
BMW i3

2020 BMW i3

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: 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.

The Facts
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

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