2020 BMW i3
What’s new
- Edition RoadStyle offers unique exterior and interior styling details
- No other significant changes
- Part of the first i3 generation introduced for 2014
Pros & Cons
- 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
2020 BMW i3 Review
It's been six model years since the original BMW i3 debuted, yet the 2020 i3 remains one of the most unusual cars on the market today. Its body is made from carbon fiber-reinforced plastic, an expensive but strong and lightweight material normally found on exotic supercars. The i3 is pretty small as cars go, but it's surprisingly roomy inside and fitted with attractive materials.
The i3 is also distinctive in that you can get one as a pure electric car or opt for the Range Extender model, which uses a two-cylinder gasoline engine to recharge the battery when you run out of electricity. Other 2020 EVs have fresher designs and more range, but overall the i3 is worth a look.
What's it like to live with?
For more information on the BMW i3 of this generation, read about our experiences from a full year of living with a 2014 BMW i3 Range Extender. We cover everything from range to comfort. We liked it for its nimble driving characteristics and distinctive interior but had less positive things to say about the rear door and cargo space. Note that the 2020 i3 comes with a larger battery with more additional range, DC fast charging and a newer infotainment system, but most of our observations still apply.
Our verdict
7.8 / 10How does it drive?
8.5The quick, responsive steering is an acquired taste since it can make the i3 feel a little darty at highway speeds. In our testing, the i3 (the Range Extender model) accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. It's decently quick compared to similarly sized hatchbacks, but the i3 lacks the prodigious acceleration of other EVs such as the Tesla Model 3.
Around town, it's pretty easy to use the i3's strong off-throttle regenerative braking most of the time for slowing down, so you rarely need to use the brake pedal.
How comfortable is it?
7.0The 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 a little basic for a luxury vehicle at this price. Even stranger is the fact that it adjusts in 2-degree increments. The cabin is usually remarkably quiet most of the time. The exception is when the gas generator comes on after the battery is depleted. It sounds like a tiny lawnmower is following you.
How’s the interior?
7.5Also 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 trying to get in and out of tight parking lots. Rear passengers can't let themselves out either.
How’s the tech?
7.5The i3 doesn't offer every new driver assistance feature, 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.
How’s the storage?
7.5Got 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 car seat and Isofix anchors that are easily accessed under plastic covers. But space for and access to larger rear-facing seats can be tough, and the open rear door may impede stroller access to the hatch.
How economical is it?
7.0Range is also lackluster. The regular i3 can go an EPA-estimated 153 miles, which is less than most other EVs. The Range Extender model is even lower — 126 miles — but you can go farther once the generator kicks on — for about 200 miles total before you'll have to stop and refuel.
Is it a good value?
7.5BMW offers bumper-to-bumper coverage for four years/50,000 miles. Complimentary maintenance is included for the first three years.
Wildcard
9.0The rear-wheel-drive platform, lightweight construction and compact dimensions make the i3 quick, responsive and nimble. The electric motor imbues it with smooth acceleration and a mostly silent ride, while aggressive regenerative braking makes one-pedal driving fun and efficient.
Which i3 does Edmunds recommend?
BMW i3 models
The 2020 BMW i3 is a four-door hatchback with seating for four passengers. It's available in i3 or i3s trim, both of which are all-electric by default. You can also get them equipped with a gasoline-powered Range Extender, which uses a two-cylinder gasoline and a 2.3-gallon tank to recharge the battery once it runs out. All four versions are powered with 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.
Base i3 models have an electric motor (170 horsepower, 184 lb-ft of torque) that drives the rear wheels. The i3s is the sportier, better-handling version of the i3, with an electric motor that cranks out 181 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque.
i3
The standard i3 comes with a healthy list of features, including:
- 19-inch wheels
- LED headlights
- 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 (alerts you to obstacles that may not be visible behind or in front of 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
There's also a new Edition RoadStyle variant for the i3s. It features:
- Black exterior paint with black-painted rims
- Orange exterior accents
- Brown leather upholstery
- Brown wood interior trim
A number of options are available for both i3 and i3s models. These include:
- Mega World (cloth upholstery with imitation leather inserts)
- Giga World (cloth upholstery with leather inserts)
- Tera World (leather upholstery)
- Sunroof
- 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)
- Advanced navigation system
- 10.25-inch central display screen
Sponsored cars related to the i3
Features & Specs
| s 4dr Hatchback electric DD | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $47,650 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 4 |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
| Horsepower | 181 hp @ 7000 rpm |
| 4dr Hatchback electric DD | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $44,450 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 4 |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
| Horsepower | 168 hp @ 4800 rpm |
| s 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender electric DD | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $51,500 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 4 |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
| Horsepower | 181 hp @ 7000 rpm |
| 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender electric DD | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $48,300 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 4 |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
| Horsepower | 168 hp @ 4800 rpm |
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
BMW i3 vs. Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 presents the most serious challenge to the BMW i3. The Model 3 is styled like a traditional sedan, with a dedicated trunk space and more rear passenger room than the i3. The Model 3's interior isn't as nice, and Tesla insists on using a single touchscreen to house all driving information and infotainment systems. But the Tesla is also less expensive and has better range and performance. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Tesla Model 3.
BMW i3 vs. Kia Niro EV
If you don't mind going for a more conventional nameplate, the Kia Niro EV is another outstanding small electric vehicle. The Niro EV has plenty of cabin space and a strong list of available features. It doesn't have the BMW's unique interior or the Tesla's explosive performance, but the Kia is well priced and offers considerable range on a full charge.
BMW i3 vs. Audi e-tron
The Audi e-tron is much more expensive than the others listed here, but it's also one of the most refined luxury electric vehicles. Introduced just last year, the e-tron uses Audi's newest interior design language and cutting-edge features. The only downsides are the price and electric range, which barely crests the 200-mile mark.
FAQ
Is the BMW i3 a good car?
What's new in the 2020 BMW i3?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 BMW i3:
- Edition RoadStyle offers unique exterior and interior styling details
- No other significant changes
- Part of the first i3 generation introduced for 2014
Is the BMW i3 reliable?
Is the 2020 BMW i3 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 BMW i3?
The least-expensive 2020 BMW i3 is the 2020 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:
- s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $47,650
- 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $44,450
- s 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD) which starts at $51,500
- 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD) which starts at $48,300
What are the different models of BMW i3?
More about the 2020 BMW i3
2020 BMW i3 Overview
The 2020 BMW i3 is offered in the following submodels: i3 Hatchback. Available styles include s 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), s 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD), and 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD).
What do people think of the 2020 BMW i3?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 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 2020 i3.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 BMW i3 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 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 2020 BMW i3?
2020 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD)
The 2020 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $52,795. The average price paid for a new 2020 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD) is trending $1,394 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,394 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $51,401.
The average savings for the 2020 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD) is 2.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2020 BMW i3 4dr Hatchback w/Range Extender (electric DD) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2020 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) 2020 BMW i3 for sale near. There are currently 2 new 2020 i3s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $52,095 and mileage as low as 5 miles. 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 2020 BMW i3.
Can't find a new 2020 BMW i3s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new BMW i3 for sale - 8 great deals out of 15 listings starting at $14,729.
Find a new BMW for sale - 4 great deals out of 7 listings starting at $24,567.
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.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 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