2021 BMW i3





Total MSRP | $45,445 |
---|---|
Edmunds suggests you pay | $43,670 |
2021 BMW i3 Review
- Lightweight chassis makes the i3 quick and nimble
- Well-crafted interior offers distinctive styling
- Available range-extender model
- Pricier than rivals
- Reverse-hinged rear doors are suboptimal in parking lots
- Cargo area isn't large and has a high load floor
- Adaptive LED headlights are now standard
- Part of the first i3 generation introduced for 2014
BMW's i3 was one of the first mainstream electric vehicles to hit the market, way back in 2014. BMW has updated it a few times over the years, enhancing its range, performance and technology features. But the basic appeal of the 2021 i3 is still the same. This is an easy-to-park EV with an upscale and surprisingly roomy interior. And an available range-extender model has a tiny gasoline-powered generator that allows you to carry on if you fully deplete the battery pack.
On the downside, most newer electric vehicles have eclipsed the i3. The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, for example, offer superior range, performance and utility. Other notable EVs include the Kia Niro and Mini Cooper SE electric as well as more premium models such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volvo XC40 Recharge. We also expect this to be the last year for the i3 since BMW is readying its i4 and iX replacements. Still, the i3 could be worth considering for city commuting. Read our Expert Rating below to get our in-depth review of this year's i3.
Comfort
The i3's carbon-fiber structure is supremely rigid, which virtually eliminates shudder and shake on rough roads. The suspension does an admirable job of absorbing road imperfections and potholes, but no one would describe the ride as plush.
The single-zone climate system works well, but it's basic even among the mainstream EV segment. Even stranger is the fact that it adjusts in 2-degree increments. The cabin is usually remarkably quiet, except for when the gas generator comes on after the battery is depleted. It sounds like a tiny lawnmower is following you.
2021 BMW i3 pricing
in Ashburn, VA

Interior
Also unusual are the i3's reverse-hinged rear doors. They open wide to admit passengers or packages, but that's only if you have the space to do so. You'll often find yourself corralled by the front and rear doors when you're trying to get in and out of tight parking lots. Rear passengers can't let themselves out either.
Technology
The i3 doesn't offer every new driver assistance feature, such as lane keeping assist, but what is here works well. BMW voice controls don't require a rigid command structure, but we found some variability in its ability to understand what we said.
Storage
Got little kids? The reverse-hinged rear doors give the i3 uncommonly good access to front-facing child safety seats. The two car seat positions benefit from anchors that are easily accessed under plastic covers. But fitting in a larger rear-facing seat, and accessing it, can be tough.
Range and Efficiency
Range is also lackluster. The regular i3 can go an EPA-estimated 153 miles, which is less than most other EVs. The figure for the Range Extender model is even lower — 126 miles — but you can go farther once the generator kicks on. Range is about 200 miles total before you'll have to stop and refuel.
Value
BMW offers bumper-to-bumper coverage for four years/50,000 miles. Complimentary maintenance is included for the first three years.
Wildcard
Which i3 does Edmunds recommend?
BMW i3 models
The 2021 BMW i3 is a small four-door hatchback that comes standard with an all-electric powertrain. It's available in two trims — the base i3 and the somewhat sportier i3s. Both are available with a Range Extender that uses a tiny two-cylinder gasoline generator and a 2.3-gallon tank to keep you going once the main battery charge runs out. All four versions have a 42-kWh battery that is good for 153 miles of range in the electric-only version or 126 miles in the Range Extender model. BMW says the latter can go up to 200 miles with the gasoline generator on.
The base i3's powertrain makes 168 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the i3s bumps the power slightly to 181 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque.
i3
The standard i3 comes standard with:
- 19-inch wheels
- Adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
- DC fast-charging capability
- Keyless entry and push-button start
- Auto-dimming mirrors
- Automatic single-zone climate control
- Heated front seats
- Cloth upholstery
- Navigation system
- 6.5-inch central display screen
- Apple CarPlay
- Front and rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
i3s
Aside from the more powerful electric motor, the i3s adds:
- 20-inch wheels with performance tires
- Black exterior trim
- Restyled bumpers
A number of options are available for both i3 and i3s models. They include:
- Mega World (cloth upholstery with imitation leather inserts)
- Giga World (cloth upholstery with leather inserts)
- Tera World (leather upholstery)
- Sunroof
- Heat pump (heats the cabin more efficiently than normal heater)
- Wireless charging pad and Wi-Fi hotspot
- 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
- Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with no driver intervention)
- Technology + Driving Assistant package
- Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the i3 and the car in front)
- Cornering lights (illuminate to enhance your field of view while turning)
- Navigation system
- 10.25-inch central display screen




Consumer reviews
There are no consumer reviews for the 2021 BMW i3.
2021 BMW i3 video
2018 BMW i3 Frankfurt Auto Show Debut
NOTE: This video is about the 2018 BMW i3, but since the 2021 BMW i3 is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
2021 BMW i3 Hatchback Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $45,445
- EPA Battery & Range
- EPA KWh/100 mi.This value tells you how much energy in kilowatt-hours a vehicle would use to travel 100 miles. Unlike mpg, however, where a larger number is better (for example, a vehicle that gets 30 mpg is better than one that gets 20 mpg), a smaller number is better in kWh/100 miles because you are using less battery energy per mile.: 30
- Time To Charge Battery (At 240V)This can be tough to pin down, but we assume for simplicity that the 240V power source will enable the vehicle's onboard charger to operate at full capacity, and that the battery is fully depleted and will be recharged to 100%. Given those assumptions, the value provided is simply the battery's capacity divided by the onboard charger's power rating. For example, a battery rated at 100 kWh will need 12.5 hours to recharge fully using an 8.0-kW charger.: 7.0 hr.
- EPA Electricity RangeThis value is the estimated number of miles that a vehicle can travel in combined city and highway driving (using a mix of 55% highway and 45% city driving) before needing to be recharged, according to the EPA's testing methodology.: 153 mi.
- EPA Combined MPGeA combined total of 45% city MPGe + 55% highway MPGe: 113 MPGe
- Seating
- 4 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 1-speed direct drive
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 158.3 in. / Height: 62.9 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 80.3 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 69.9 in.
- Curb Weight: 2972 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 15.1 cu.ft.

Safety
Our experts’ favorite i3 safety features:
- Active Driving Assistant
- Reduces the likelihood and severity of a front collision by issuing a warning before intervening with automatic emergency braking.
- Active Cruise Control With Stop & Go
- Manages the gap to the car ahead, even down to a standstill in routine stop-and-go traffic. Alerts you in sudden slowdown situations.
- Tire Pressure Monitor
- Warns you of insufficient tire pressure well before a slow leak can lead to a blowout.
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Side Impact Test | Good |
---|---|
Roof Strength Test | Good |
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Acceptable |
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
BMW i3 vs. the competition

2021 BMW i3

2021 Tesla Model 3
BMW i3 vs. Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 offers more range for less money than the i3. The same is true for passenger and cargo space, two of the i3's weakest areas. Available all-wheel drive is another potential draw. Other than being easier to park, the i3 doesn't have much to offer here. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Tesla Model 3.
BMW i3 vs. Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 is the second vehicle from Volvo's electrified offshoot brand. It's more expensive than the i3, but it offers more electric range than the BMW. The larger size means it promises more utility too. The price gap is significant, but it's well worth a look if you're already considering a well-optioned i3.
BMW i3 vs. Ford Mustang Mach-E
The Ford Mustang Mach-E made its debut last year and quickly rose to the top of our EV rankings. It's more like an SUV than the hatchback i3, but it doesn't drive like one. Besides being fun to drive, the Mach-E offers impressive tech, excellent electric range, plenty of utility, and a comfortable and well-appointed interior.
FAQ
Is the BMW i3 a good car?
What's new in the 2021 BMW i3?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 BMW i3:
- Adaptive LED headlights are now standard
- Part of the first i3 generation introduced for 2014
Is the BMW i3 reliable?
Is the 2021 BMW i3 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 BMW i3?
The least-expensive 2021 BMW i3 is the 2021 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback (electric DD). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $44,450.
Other versions include:
- 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $44,450
- s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $47,650
- 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (0.6L 2cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) which starts at $48,300
- s 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (0.6L 2cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD) which starts at $51,500
What are the different models of BMW i3?
2021 BMW i3 Overview
The 2021 BMW i3 is offered in the following submodels: i3 Hatchback, i3 Electric, i3 Plug-in Hybrid. Available styles include 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), s 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (0.6L 2cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD), s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), and 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (0.6L 2cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD). BMW i3 models are available with a undefined-liter electric engine or a 0.6 L-liter plug-in hybrid engine, with output up to 181 hp, depending on engine type. The 2021 BMW i3 comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 1-speed direct drive. The 2021 BMW i3 comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What do people think of the 2021 BMW i3?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 BMW i3 and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 i3.
Pros
- Lightweight chassis makes the i3 quick and nimble
- Well-crafted interior offers distinctive styling
- Available range-extender model
Cons
- Pricier than rivals
- Reverse-hinged rear doors are suboptimal in parking lots
- Cargo area isn't large and has a high load floor
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 BMW i3 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 i3 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 BMW i3?
2021 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback (electric DD)
The 2021 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $45,445. The average price paid for a new 2021 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is trending $1,775 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,775 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $43,670.
The average savings for the 2021 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is 3.9% below the MSRP.
2021 BMW i3 s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD)
The 2021 BMW i3 s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $48,645. The average price paid for a new 2021 BMW i3 s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is trending $1,902 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,902 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $46,743.
The average savings for the 2021 BMW i3 s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is 3.9% below the MSRP.
Which 2021 BMW i3S are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 BMW i3 for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 BMW i3.
Can't find a new 2021 BMW i3s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new BMW for sale.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
What is the MPG of a 2021 BMW i3?
2021 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), 1-speed direct drive, electric
2021 BMW i3 s 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (0.6L 2cyl gas/electric plug-in hybrid DD), 1-speed direct drive, electric
31 MPG compined MPG,
30 city MPG/31 highway MPG
2021 BMW i3 s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), 1-speed direct drive, electric
EPA Est. MPG | N/A |
Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
Drive Train | rear wheel drive |
Displacement | N/A |
Passenger Volume | 99.1 cu.ft. |
Wheelbase | 101.2 in. |
Length | 158.3 in. |
Width | N/A |
Height | 62.9 in. |
Curb Weight | 2972 lbs. |
Should I lease or buy a 2021 BMW i3?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out BMW lease specials
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