Miles per gallon-equivalent is how the EPA provides efficiency ratings for battery-electric vehicles in a way that can be used in comparison with gasoline-powered vehicles. Actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, elevation changes, weather, accessory usage (lights, climate control), vehicle condition and other factors.
EPA-estimated range is the distance, or predicted distance, a new plug-in vehicle will travel on electric power before its battery charge is exhausted. Actual range will vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, elevation changes, weather, accessory usage (lights, climate control), vehicle condition and other factors.
Charge time estimates are based on using a 240-volt charging circuit charging from empty to 100% battery capacity. Level 2 is the fastest way to charge at home, though charging times can vary and are dependent on factors such as the capabilities of the charging circuit, charging equipment and the vehicle’s onboard charger. Level 2 charging time provided by Chrome Data, a JD Power company.
42mins.
DC fast chargingDC fast charging
DC fast charging is the fastest way to charge and only available at pay-for-use public charging stations, though some EVs come with complimentary charging for a limited time. Real-world DC fast charging times can vary greatly, even on the same vehicle, because of this type of charging’s sensitivities to ambient and battery conditions. DC fast charging time provided by Chrome Data, a JD Power company.
33kWh
Battery capacityBattery capacity
Battery capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours, which is a measure of how much energy is used over time. A 70-kWh battery has more energy capacity than a 50-kWh battery and would result in a longer driving range if all other factors were equal. But more battery capacity doesn’t always mean longer range because of differences in energy consumption from vehicle to vehicle. Battery capacity provided by Chrome Data, a JD Power company.
What it is: The BMW i3 is a purpose-built electric car with rear-wheel drive and seating for four. Constructed of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic and aluminum to save weight, the i3's electric drivetrain gives it an EPA-estimated range of up to 114 miles. Competitors include the Nissan Leaf, Fiat 500e, Volkswagen e-Golf and Chevrolet Bolt EV.
To address the range anxiety associated with electric cars, BMW offers an available two-cylinder gas engine for the i3. The engine doesn't drive the wheels but rather charges the lithium-ion battery to extend the car's range.
BMW has freshened the distinctive-looking hatchback with updated styling, new technology and a new performance-oriented i3s model with a higher-output electric motor, sport suspension and other changes.
We recently purchased an I3s and are totally amazed at the technology and joy it is to own this vehicle. It's like the feeling when you got your first car!! Everything is engineered to perfection. It's BMW through and through and my only regret is not getting one sooner.
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
Comfort5.0
Interior5.0
Performance5.0
Value5.0
Exterior5.0
Reliability5.0
Purchased a Used car
Used for Commuting
Does recommend this car
10 people out of 10 found this review helpful.
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Spacious, well designed, great styling, adequate features. Only thing you need to ask yourself is if a usefule range of about 110 to 120 miles per charge is good enough for your driving needs. If you do buy this car, make sure you buy a 220 volt charger to keep charging time to less than about 4 hours.
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
Comfort5.0
Interior5.0
Performance5.0
Value5.0
Exterior5.0
Reliability5.0
Purchased a Used car
Used for Commuting
Does recommend this car
14 people out of 14 found this review helpful.
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Love the car, and with the upgrades of the 2018 I couldnt be happier. Love the exterior and interior colors. So sophisticated and nice. The tech upgrades are awesome.
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
Comfort5.0
Interior5.0
Performance5.0
Value5.0
Exterior5.0
Reliability5.0
Purchased a Used car
Used for Commuting
Does recommend this car
7 people out of 7 found this review helpful.
Did you?