2019 BMW i3

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$44,450

starting MSRP

2019 BMW i3
2019 BMW i3

Key specs

Base trim shown

Overview

The good:

  • Acceleration
  • Ride comfort
  • Driving range
  • Cabin space
  • Urban-friendly dimensions, turning circle

The bad:

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

4 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2019 BMW i3 trim comparison will help you decide.

Notable features

  • Bigger battery boosts EPA-estimated range to 153 miles
  • All-electric four-seat hatchback
  • Rear-wheel drive
  • Performance-oriented i3s version
  • Range-extending gas engine available

2019 BMW i3 review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2019 BMW i3?

The 2019 BMW i3 is an electric car that seats up to four. It offers a driving range of up to 153 miles, according to the EPA, and a range-extending gas engine is optional. The i3 has rear-wheel drive, and competitors include the Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen e-Golf and Chevrolet Bolt EV.

What's New on the 2019 BMW i3?

A higher-capacity battery pack boosts the i3's all-electric driving range to 153 miles, versus last year's 114-mile range. Available features include full-LED headlights with automatic high beams, wireless device charging, and a Wi-Fi hot spot for up to 10 devices (data subscription required after initial trial period).

What Features in the 2019 BMW i3 Are Most Important?

The 2019 i3's longer electric range should make range anxiety less of an issue, but if you're concerned about running down the battery, the version with the gas range-extender engine might be worth a look; the car's all-electric range drops to 126 miles, according to the EPA, but total range increases to 200 miles. Available active safety features include forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability.

Should I Buy the 2019 BMW i3?

Besides longer range, the 2019 i3's highlights include acceleration, ride comfort and cabin space. It is a bit pricey, however, so if you're in the market for an electric car, it'll be worth your while to consider all the available models — including those from non-luxury brands.

Consumer reviews

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.2
  • Interior design 4.2
  • Performance 4.8
  • Value for the money 4.0
  • Exterior styling 3.5
  • Reliability 4.3

Most recent consumer reviews

3.9

Fun and fast

I had the Rex range extender, loved the car, fun to drive and fast. Range extender engine a bit buzzy but did the job. Only issue I had was air conditioning went out but covered by warranty. Loved the modern interior .

2.8

Ugly, or is it quirky...

We were ready to lease it for the advertised price of $199/month. However, the fine print stated that we would need to trade in a BMW. Without a BMW trade in, it was $299. So, the outdated, quirky little electric suv thing quickly became outdated and ugly in our eyes. Strange what $100 a month did to it. But it’s true. It’s an outdated and ugly car. It’s electric range was barely over 100 miles. We would’ve used it for local errands and as a second car. Everything about the interior screamed that it was designed 10 years ago. The exterior was no better of course. On the pro side, it was more fun to drive than we imagined. Acceleration was faster than expected due to its electric motor. No lag. Instant torque. It accelerated smoothly even at HW speeds. Very impressive. And it handled corners like any other bmw, if not better, since it probably had a lower center of gravity. We would’ve taken it for $199/month. But, $299 made it not worth while.

4.9

New I3s REX

Just purchased the BMW I3s a few days ago. I purchased the car from a dealership 115 miles away. I picked up the vehicle which had a full charge and the Range Extender showed 68 miles. I live in the south and the temperature was 100 degrees. I drove the car 115 miles (eco pro and comfort modes) at average speeds between 45-70 mph with the a/c on with mixed expressway and backroad routes. Upon arriving home, I had 47 miles of electric range remaining. I was pleasantly surprised.

See all 4 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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