Why should I buy a BMW i3?

There are so many reasons, but it comes down to – why not?

18 October 2016

In a market where there are increasing numbers of electric cars, BMW’s i3 has a niche virtually to itself. It’s not as mass-market as a Nissan Leaf but it’s not as exclusive or expensive as a Tesla. So, exclusivity is one attraction, but there are many more.

The i3 comes in two forms, the pure electric and the Range Extender. The latter has a small petrol engine which can top up or work with the electric motor. In Range Extender form, even if the electric motor runs out of power you’ll still be able to keep going as long as there is fuel in the tank.

In full electric mode you should still have a range of 124 miles, and you can simply recharge overnight at home, or from a public charging point or simply via a standard plug socket. Since the electric version has zero CO2 emissions and the Range Extender only 15g/km of CO2, you’ll pay no car tax and your running costs will be negligible whichever version you choose.

Naturally the electric drive gives plentiful performance from standstill, helped by the lightweight body construction. With 168bhp on demand, you’ll be surprised at how nippy and agile the i3 is, whether you’re in the city or the countryside.

The handling too is a surprise, with well-weighted steering, and good response and agility whatever the road. The tight turning circle makes it ideal for city use, but this is a vehicle that is far more than a city car.

It may be small but it is also a BMW and it gets a premium BMW cabin. This offers lots of space and extremely good visibility. Only one trim level is offered, but that includes heated front seats, sat nav, iDrive, rear sensors, climate and cruise control and much else.

New the car starts at £27,880 as it qualifies for the full government subsidy of £4500. It hasn’t been around for long enough for the used market to settle down but the indications are that depreciation will be high, so perhaps a check on the few used cars on the market might be worth the effort. Remember that the battery has an eight-year, 100,000 warranty on it.

MORE ABOUT

BMW

BMW i3

Why should I buy a BMW i3?

Read More