The BMW i3

The BMW i3 has been out for a while. Many thought that it would kill the Tesla Model S. After actually sitting in one and having the time to experience the ride, I have a full review.

BMW launched the i3 for North America in 2014. It was a promising sign from BMW as it showed the company was moving towards a more technological and innovative future.

The i3 has a max 150 mile range in the top of the line range extender variant (there is a little motor that supplements the battery pack). It also featured a revolutionary all carbon fiber-plastic tub that provided a really light curb weight and great rigidity.

On the outside, BMW used bold styling to make the i3 look like a futuristic capsule. The blue accents near the kidney grill and along the door panels make the i3 come off as a crisp, efficient city cruiser.

Inside, the i3 doesn’t have the typical BMW cookie-cutter interior. Sure it has the latest iDrive system with that great, clear wide screen that provides the driver with navigation, control of the various media sources, and even the option to search for the nearest charging station. What is even more interesting is the quality of the materials like the expansive open pore Eucalyptus wood piece that stretches from the front passenger’s air vent and cascades into the dashboard near the iDrive screen. All of the leather seating surfaces and trim pieces are humanely sourced in the most environmentally-friendly way. BMW tried to make the i3 cabin as minimalistic as possible.

On the road, acceleration actually surprised me. It was really funky to be in this bubble that beats a 2015 BMW M3 to 40 MPH! The ride is superbly comfortable and there is no road noise!

Practicality is also a strong suit. The 150-mile range is perfect for this run-around car. The back seats can easily fit two car seats, but don’t try to squeeze someone over six foot in the back. If you use a Level 2 BMW Charging Station (which can be put into your garage), it will take 3.5 hours to get a full charge from 0%. What’s even more shocking is that by using a DC Combo Fast Charger, the i3 can get an 80% charge in just 30 minutes!

The i3 is truly remarkable because it is so revolutionary for BMW. But what I love most about the car is the price because BMW of Alexandria recently had i3s going for mid-$100 a month for 24 months with no money down (10,000 miles a year too). Insane! Better yet, if you buy any X-line model, you get a free i3! BMW is having a really rough time selling their stunning electric car.

Well, that’s it for me! If you have any car news, leave a comment and I’ll see you soon!