We were fans of the BMW i3 when it came out because of its nimble handling, eager acceleration and distinctive interior styling. That's all present in the 2017 BMW i3, but now it has a bigger battery for improved all-electric range. If you're looking for a premium yet practical EV, the i3 is your car.

Most would rightly conclude that the BMW i3 is some kind of eco-car when gazing at its unconventional styling. But there's more to this electric vehicle than skinny tires and compact dimensions.

In designing the i3 to be a dedicated electric vehicle at the outset, BMW went to great lengths to maximize the potential of the car's electric motor and battery pack. And so it is a featherweight car whose body shell is made entirely of carbon fiber, a racing-derived material that is stronger than steel yet lighter than aluminum. The result is spirited acceleration, more range for a given size of battery and an uncommonly low center of mass that fosters the i3's nimble handling.

The optional Range Extender's gasoline engine generates electricity once the battery runs low, but please don't compare this to a Chevrolet Volt. BMW is aiming for a higher electric vehicle classification than the Volt, so its tiny 0.6-liter two-cylinder engine and 2.5-gallon gas tank are intentionally insufficient for interstate travel.

Trim levels & features

The 2017 BMW i3 is a four-door hatchback with seating for four passengers. The case for the i3 is even stronger this year because of the introduction of a larger battery that significantly extends its electric driving range. Two of this year's three trim levels have that bigger battery, namely the base and Range Extender versions. But the enlarged battery does cost more, so last year's smaller one is still available in the new 60 Ah version ("60 Ah" refers to the amp-hour capability of the battery).

Compared to last year's base i3, the only thing different about the 60 Ah model is the name. Apart from that it is a pure carryover model with the same 170-horsepower electric motor that drives the rear wheels. It's fed by a 22-kilowatt-hour battery that provides enough power for an estimated 81 miles of range. As before, it comes well equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, rear parking sensors and Level 3 DC fast-charging capability. Inside, it retains the Mega World imitation-leather and cloth upholstery, and it comes with automatic climate control, heated front seats, Bluetooth, FM, HD and satellite radio, and BMW's basic Business navigation system with a modest 6.5-inch display screen.

Paradoxically, the base i3 is the next rung up the ladder, owing to the extra cost associated with its larger 33-kWh battery (which provides 114 miles of estimated range). The only visible external clues are its upgraded wheels and tires, which are also wider in back. You get keyless ignition and entry with this version, but interior upholstery is cloth (Deka World), with the 60 Ah trim's Mega World imitation-leather interior available as an upgrade. The otherwise-identical basic navigation system is bolstered with enhanced real-time traffic data.

The only difference between the base and the Range Extender is, quite simply, the range-extending 0.6-liter two-cylinder gasoline generator, which is the same as last year. Because the Range Extender is heavier, it travels an estimated 97 miles on electricity. An incremental increase in fuel capacity this year — 2.4 gallons instead of 1.9 gallons — enables a combined range of 180 miles of driving range.

All models can be equipped with the Technology + Driving Assistant package (advanced navigation with a widescreen display and advanced local search, all-speed adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking) or the Parking Assistant package (rearview camera, added front parking sensors, automated parking). In addition to the interiors already mentioned, any can be equipped with leather and wool or full-leather upholstery. You can also add 20-inch wheels, a premium stereo upgrade or a new power glass sunroof, the latter being the only option you can't add to the 60 Ah version.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2014 BMW i3 w/Range Extender (battery electric 1-speed direct drive w/0.6L 2-cyl. gasoline generator)

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current BMW i3 has received some revisions, including more standard equipment (seat heaters, DC fast charging and automatic wipers). The most significant change is the new larger battery that improves the all-electric i3's range to 114 miles, a 33-mile boost. Our Range Extender test car could go 72 miles on electricity and 150 miles total; a similar 2017 example goes 97 miles on electricity and 180 miles total. But our findings still remain broadly applicable to this year's BMW i3.

Driving

The BMW i3 is a surprisingly good all-around performer, and the i3 REX is no exception. The range extender adds 265 pounds, but it doesn't upset the finely balanced handling and responsive steering. It's a touch slower to 60 mph, but 7.1 seconds to 60 mph is still quick in the EV segment.

Acceleration

Our i3 with the range extender weighs 265 pounds more than a regular i3, so it takes 7.1 seconds to get to 60 mph instead of 6.6 seconds. But this is still quick for an EV. It's much slower when the generator is making juice, though, because the range extender mainly functions as a backup system.

Braking

You'll rarely engage the smooth, predictable-feeling brake pedal because substantial off-throttle regenerative braking handles most routine stops in a very engaging way. The Range Extender needs 111 feet to make a panic stop from 60 mph, just 2 feet more than a regular i3 and no less astounding.

Steering

4.0

Quick, responsive steering and a short wheelbase add up to an ultra-tight turning circle and excellent city maneuverability. But these same attributes can make it feel a bit darty on the highway at speed, especially in places where the surface is grooved to dissipate rainwater.

Handling

4.5

Don't let those skinny tires fool you. This one is impressively coordinated and exhibits supremely balanced cornering behavior because of its 50/50 weight balance, rear-wheel drive and low center of gravity.

Drivability

Zero-shift electric vehicle behavior makes for utterly smooth acceleration and braking. The high level of natural off-throttle regenerative braking allows for one-pedal driving, which is both very efficient and loads of fun once you get the hang of it.

Comfort

The seats and seating position are surprisingly comfortable, and the ride exhibits a level of polish you might not expect. It's very quiet, too, in all-electric mode. But you'll hear the gas generator if the battery runs out of juice and the i3 switches to extended-range mode.

Seat comfort

Supportive and comfortable leather seats employ manual adjusters to save weight and electricity. Telescopic steering wheel has a big adjustment span, assuring a good driving position for tall and short alike. The elevated backseat is pretty comfy, too.

Ride comfort

3.5

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 here as plush.

Noise & vibration

3.5

There's a touch of wind and road noise on the highway that's only noticeable because the electric motor is silent. That changes if the gas generator comes on after the battery is depleted; it growls like a motorhome generator, especially on hills.

Climate control

4.5

Automatic climate control comes standard, and the system works well and employs simple controls that are positioned front and center. Electric-supplied heat comes up to temp quicker than in gasoline-powered cars that must wait for engine heat in the morning.

Interior

4.5

The i3's functional and friendly cabin is an inviting place to spend your commute. There's a lot of no-nonsense practicality but oodles of style and innovative design, too.

Ease of use

The nontraditional shifter stalk is actually intuitive and easy to use once you use it a few times. The typical BMW iDrive control and screen menus work well, and the steering-mounted controls make up for an odd volume knob and preset placement.

Getting in/getting out

It's pretty easy for the driver to get in and out despite a somewhat wide doorsill. The reverse-hinged rear doors open wide. But getting in the back is a two-step process, as you must open the front side doors in order to swing the rear doors open.

Driving position

The front seats are manually adjustable to save electricity, but they're easy to set and the adjustment range is generous. The same is true of the tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The gauges are easy to see through the wheel. The result: a great driving position for just about everyone.

Roominess

There is legitimate room for four adults to fit comfortably inside the i3, with adequate leg- and headroom all around. Rear occupants may eventually notice it's a tad narrow back there, but as an electric vehicle, the i3 isn't a long-distance interstate cruiser anyway.

Visibility

Expansive forward and side visibility is aided by the elevated seating position. The odd dip in the rear door window is useful in this respect, and the rear three-quarter blind spot isn't too bad. Rear parking sensors come standard, but front parking sensors and a rearview camera are optional.

Quality

The i3 costs more than the EVs it competes with, but the interior quality and modern design more than justify the extra cost. There's an intriguing mix of high-quality and eco-friendly materials. Typically solid BMW switchgear.

Utility

Plentiful storage in the cabin, but the 11.2-cubic-foot trunk is small and a bit high because the motor is under the floor. Rear-hinged doors are mostly a boon to attending to kids in car seats; they're especially good for forward-facing seats but less ideal for some bulkier rear-facing ones.

Small-item storage

The i3 has big door bins, a decent amount of dash storage and a small but useful in-armrest bin. And there's sufficient open space under the flip-up center armrest for a medium-sized purse. Backseat passengers have dedicated center-mounted cupholders.

Cargo space

The trunk is smallish, at 11.2 cubic feet, because the electric motor and generator are housed under the floor. This makes the loading height a bit high, too. The i3's high roof offsets these issues somewhat, and the rear seats do fold absolutely flat. There's good usable space if you fold one or both.

Child safety seat accommodation

Reverse-hinged doors give uncommonly good access to front-facing seats. Access to some bulky rear-facing ones can be tough, and the open rear door may impede stroller access to the hatch. The two car seat positions benefit from LATCH and Isofix anchors that are easily accessed under plastic covers.

Technology

4.5

The i3 comes across as a very technology-rich machine in standard form, and just one package — the Technology + Driving Assistant package — gets you the upgraded navigation and the most desirable active driving aids. Get the Parking Assistant package for a rear camera and automated parking.

Audio & navigation

Standard Business navigation has a small screen and basic functionality. We got the optional Professional navigation because of its broader screen, hard-drive map data and more advanced BMW online services. Audio system has FM/satellite/HD radio, Bluetooth and USB, but no AM radio or CD slot.

Smartphone integration

Phone pairing for Bluetooth phone and audio is easy, and the USB-iPod music interface is easy to manage via the iDrive controller, particularly with the larger interface screen of the Professional entertainment and navigation system.

Driver aids

The optional adaptive cruise control via the Technology + Driving Assistant package is a good example of the breed as it works all the way down to a full stop. Forward collision warning with collision mitigation braking comes with it, too. Automated parallel parking system is available separately.

Voice control

3.5

Works fairly well, but like many such systems, it does not recognize all names, particularly if they're not rooted firmly in English.

Top consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2017 BMW i3.

7 reviews

Love the quiet

David Vener,12/19/2016

It's been a great first month. The car has had no issues. Acceleration is amazing and the quiet is just sublime. Good sound insulation also protects the interior from external noise as well as the lack of engine noise. We've had no problems; range is as advertised. Installed a 220 v 40 amp charger in the garage that is very convenient. Haven't had to use the Range extender yet,

2017 - Electric Shadow (our first EV)

Two Five,10/08/2017

- SEP 2017. Wow, I finally picked-up our 2017 i3 REX specially ordered from BMW’s “I” plant in Germany (highly recommend designing and ordering your own, it’s fun and worth the wait). We chose Fluid Black with Blue Accent exterior and it is beautiful (the only current USA solid color option for the i3). I thought Fluid Black may blend in with all the other similar size/style cars but it is still very distinctive and like no other car on the road with thanks to BMW’s design and using accent colors like the electric blue. However, I still miss the Black Sapphire Metallic paint quality. We also selected the Deka World interior and it matches the exterior colors perfectly (really, it’s above our expectations and we are VERY picky!). We also selected the 19 inch “428” style rims for the tires and they are awesome! We couldn’t be happier with the color choices. We waited to order our i3 so we could have the larger 94ah battery, the i3 moonroof, and the new turbo charger option for home charging. I fully loaded the i3 with all the options including premium sound (which kicks!), moonroof, parking assist and technology packages. We immediately tinted the windows and are completely satisfied with the appearance. The i3 turns heads! I do wish factory tinted windows were an option, tinters struggle significantly with the i3 windows and a factory product would be much better. I travel to and from work daily around 50 miles per day so the i3 is ideal. - Before buying an EV we had to transition our minds to understand the design focus on weight reduction and power use. We asked ourselves; “how much will miss the big BMW tires, the extremely full feel of and comfortable seats that adjust with a touch of buttons, the Heads-Up Display (HUD), Blind Spot Indicator System (BLIS), etc.”? You can get allot of GOOD amenities with “todays” fuel powered vehicles and when weight really doesn’t matter. However, the i3 is so different that it’s an easy transition to make and is so simple to use! Do we miss those items? Yes and no. It’s actually fun to embrace helping earth be just a little less negatively impacted (e.g. meeting the global goal of reducing carbon monoxide). Please know I researched the i3 for months and watched every on-line review and consumer feedback… well, I’m sure I came close. I also test drove an i3 and thoroughly researched where BMW is headed in the future. I feel confident to say that "today" BMW is a front leader in EV investments and are just a few years from a dramatic upgrade in overall capacity, which is why I leased over buying (technology is RAPIDLY changing every year). - I have to admit, I love the way BMW is making information/content of value available in the drivers decision-making domain (dashboard/windshield). I'm a big consumer and believer in hands free information of value on-demand e.g. I want to speak what I want and then see it or receive it in a way that does not interfere with safe driving. I also want driving to be as effortless as possible. Power is important but driving in America, unlike other countries like in Europe limits speed and therefore for me amenities matter more (but I still go 0-40 in the i3 in 1.8 seconds; can you imagine how fast it will be in 2020!). I also want excellent visibility and a brand I can depend on. BMW service is important to me and is above average compared to others. The i3’s two floating dashboard displays are easy to see and I am so glad they’re NOT touch screens. Touch screens distract drivers and the last thing I want is another screen to clean daily. I plug the i3 in, it charges during low rates for Georgia electric and I’m never out of electric fuel. I can tell the i3 with my iPhone to cool off, heat up, lock or unlock, fuel during certain hours, etc. The i3 parks itself and the cruise control is incredible as it automatically keeps the distance between vehicles and adjusts speed based on that vehicles speed in front of you. We are surprised about the interior storage for running errands and the i3’s rear doors make accessing the rear seats so easy. I find it hard to be critical of anything so far because BMW did such a good job thinking this design through the “driver/occupant” challenges/wants. I encourage everyone thinking about an EV to research it and think seriously about a BMW, especially with the federal and other rebates still available (helps reduce cost of ownership). Overall, we easily give it 5 out of 5 stars but we will see over time. If the scale was 10, I would say a 9 out of 10. A 10 for me is extremely hard to achieve…. I wish the i3 was equipped with Heads-Up-Display and BLIS (just to increase safety). I also wish there was mesh storage on the back of the seats. And, I can’t help wishing it had run flat tires and a solid metallic paint option. Other than these personal wants, the i3 is so far, well-above expectations. GREAT job BMW! Love the i3! 100% electric fun!

Great update for 2017

CK,11/09/2016

While I think some more tweaks are needed to set the car apart, overall this is a great car. It's my second electric (previously had a Leaf) and the Bimmer is an exceptional commuter. No range anxiety with this especially with the new battery. I've driven over 100 miles and still had 37% percent battery charge left. The new color option of protonic blue is a great step forward.

Amaizing in so many ways

N LeBert,08/15/2017

This car has exceeded all my expectations. It's the 2017 Rex Terra world. Most of my driving is highway and oh what fun it is. Looks small from outside, especially from the rear, but inside you feel you are in a spacious car of the future. The handling and comfort are most surprising for an electric car and even more surprising is the acceleration and control you have. Some things

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Features & Specs

MSRP

$44,450

MPG

129 city / 106 hwy

Seats 4

1-speed direct drive

Electric

N/A

MSRP

$48,300

MPG

N/A city / N/A hwy

Seats 4

1-speed direct drive

Electric

N/A

MSRP

$42,400

MPG

137 city / 111 hwy

Seats 4

1-speed direct drive

Electric

N/A

See all 2017 BMW i3 features & specs

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 driver in sudden slowdown situations.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Warns driver of insufficient tire pressure well before a slow unnoticed leak can lead to a blowout-caused roadside stranding or accident.

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More about the 2017 BMW i3

Sharp handling, rapid acceleration and unique interior styling have made us fans of the BMW i3 since its debut. For 2017, the i3 gets an optional larger battery that extends its range and makes this eco-commuter an even more compelling purchase.

The i3 was built from the ground up as an electric vehicle, freeing its stylists from the need to make room for a bulky gasoline engine and fuel tank. Instead, the i3 was shaped around its battery and a compact electric motor, giving it a unique profile. BMW wanted to make the car as light as possible and manufactures the body shell entirely of carbon fiber, a material stronger than steel yet lighter than aluminum.

We like the i3's unconventional interior. The controls are laid out in an intuitive fashion, and the driving position is excellent. The backseat is roomier than you might expect, though entry is a two-step process because you must first open the front doors before the rear-hinged back doors. The trunk is rather small at 11.2 cubic feet, and because the drive motor and optional range extender are placed under the trunk floor, the loading height is rather high.

All i3s are powered by a 170-horsepower electric motor that drives the rear wheels. For 2017, the base i3 offers a new battery with a 114-mile range. Last year's battery, a 60-Ah (amp-hour) model offering 81 miles of range, is also still available. It's also slightly cheaper and offers simulated leather upholstery, compared to the cloth seating in the base model with the newer battery.

BMW also offers a Range Extender trim level, which has a tiny 0.6-liter two-cylinder gasoline engine fed by a 2.5-gallon fuel tank. When the battery runs low, the engine generates power to extend the i3's total range to 180 miles. Unlike the Chevrolet Volt, which can run at full speed and to its full range under gasoline power, the i3 has an engine that is really just a get-you-home measure. By design, it's insufficient for interstate travel.

The i3's performance is surprisingly good. We've timed it from zero to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, which is very quick for an electric car. The range extender adds 265 pounds of weight, but it has a minimal impact on performance; the i3 with the range extender gets up to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The super-skinny front tires might cast doubt on the i3's handling prowess, but with a low center of gravity and perfect 50-50 weight balance, the i3 is a very entertaining BMW. The short wheelbase makes for great maneuverability, but the steering feels jumpy and sensitive on the highway.

The i3 is offered in 60-Ah, base and Range Extender models, all distinguished by battery size and range. There are options, but it's a modest list by BMW standards. Use Edmunds' incomparable shopping tools to help you find the perfect BMW i3.

2017 BMW i3 Overview

The 2017 BMW i3 is offered in the following submodels: i3 Hatchback. Available styles include 60 Ah 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), and w/Range Extender 4dr Hatchback (electric DD).

What do people think of the 2017 BMW i3?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 BMW i3 and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 i3 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. 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 2017 i3.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 BMW i3 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 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.

Edmunds Scorecard

Overall4.5 / 5.0

Driving

5.0 / 5.0

Acceleration5.0 / 5.0

Braking5.0 / 5.0

Steering4.0 / 5.0

Handling4.5 / 5.0

Drivability5.0 / 5.0

Comfort

4.0 / 5.0

Seat comfort4.0 / 5.0

Ride comfort3.5 / 5.0

Noise & vibration3.5 / 5.0

Climate control4.5 / 5.0

Interior

4.5 / 5.0

Ease of use4.0 / 5.0

Getting in/getting out3.0 / 5.0

Driving position5.0 / 5.0

Roominess4.0 / 5.0

Visibility4.0 / 5.0

Quality5.0 / 5.0

Utility

4.0 / 5.0

Small-item storage4.0 / 5.0

Cargo space3.0 / 5.0

Technology

4.5 / 5.0

Audio & navigation4.0 / 5.0

Smartphone integration5.0 / 5.0

Driver aids5.0 / 5.0

Voice control3.5 / 5.0

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.

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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 2017 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.

2017 BMW i3

New

Used

2017 BMW i3 pricing

Which i3 does Edmunds recommend?

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

Trim levels & features

Trim tested

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Child safety seat accommodation

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Voice control

Features & Specs

Safety

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Edmunds Scorecard

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