2018 BMW i3

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$44,450

starting MSRP

2018 BMW i3
2018 BMW i3

Key specs

Base trim shown

Hatchback

Body style

35-118
Combined MPGe Combined MPGe

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.

Related: Top 10 Most Efficient Electric Cars
97-114 mi.
EPA-est. range EPA-est. range

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.

Related: Electric Cars With The Longest Range
5 hrs.
Level 2 charging Level 2 charging

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.

42 mins.
DC fast charging DC 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.

33 kWh
Battery capacity Battery 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.

4

Seating capacity

158.3” x 62.9”

Dimensions

Rear-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

The good:

  • Acceleration
  • Ride comfort
  • Overall range with gasoline extender
  • Cabin space
  • Urban-friendly dimensions, turning circle

The bad:

  • Low-grip tires
  • Relatively high price
  • Braking
  • Range extender recommends premium gas
  • No AM radio

3 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2018 BMW i3 trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best Hatchbacks for 2023

Notable features

  • Updated styling
  • New performance-oriented i3s version
  • All-electric four-seat hatchback
  • Gasoline range-extending engine available
  • Rear-wheel drive

2018 BMW i3 review: Our expert's take


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.

Consumer reviews

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 4.9
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 4.6
  • Exterior 4.7
  • Reliability 5.0

Most recent consumer reviews

5.0

Fun Reinvented

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.

5.0

Possibly the best car I've ever owned

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.

5.0

Love it. Had a 2014 and came back for an upgrade

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.

See all 7 consumer reviews

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by BMW
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
48 months/50,000 miles
Corrosion
144 months/unlimited distance
Powertrain
48 months/50,000 miles
Maintenance
36 months/36,000 miles
Roadside assistance
48 months/unlimited distance
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
Certified Pre-Owned Elite with less than 15,000 miles; Certified Pre-Owned with less than 60,000 miles
Basic warranty terms
1 year/unlimited miles from expiration of 4-year/50,000-mile new car warranty
Powertrain
N/A
Dealer certification required
196-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

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