2016 BMW i3

2015 BMW i3 Dynamic Hatchback 4-Door Description

About This VehicleModel strengths:Small footprint; electric drivetrain; efficient usage of space; good driving dynamics; full of cutting-edge technologyModel changes:The BMW i3 gets only minor changes for 2016. A few new colors are available, as is a new special edition, the BMW i3 Shadow Sport. The primary changes for the Shadow Sport edition include stiffer springs and dampers as well as a sunroof, a first for the BMW i3.Model value:The BMW i3 is part of the new wave of electric and hybrid cars that are becoming more and more popular in the U.S. The i3 has relatively compact external dimensions, but still has a very usable cabin with surprising amounts of interior space. Standard equipment levels are high and the i3 generally aims to compete in the compact premium segment, offering buyers plenty of luxury features in a car that is perhaps a little smaller than the traditional luxury cars of old.

Of course, the electric drivetrain is what really separates the i3 from its competitors. In standard form, it offers a combination of usable range and remarkably fast charging times. With the optional range extender equipped, the system offers functionality similar to other hybrid cars on the market such as the Chevrolet Volt. The i3 uses a range-extending gasoline engine exclusively as a generator, providing electric power to the rear wheel motors. The i3 base price starts at under $43,000, while versions equipped with a range extender start at around $46,000.

Model overview:The BMW i3 is BMW's first modern electric car. Powering all models is a 170-horsepower electric motor connected to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. While no one will ever confuse the i3 with a sports car, 170 horsepower is enough to give the i3 brisk acceleration, especially when its 184 foot pounds of torque are accounted for. BMW claims 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds. Rear-wheel drive prevents all that torque from causing unwanted torque steer, while also ensuring that the i3 lives up to BMW's high standards for vehicle dynamics and handling. The i3 may be a departure from traditional BMW aesthetics and design, but it is still offers the automaker's enthusiasm for performance and style.

BMW claims that the i3 has an electric-only range of about 80-100 miles in normal everyday driving, which should be plenty for most people's daily commute. The car's charging times are remarkably short; BMW claims a scant 30 minutes are needed to charge the car up to 80 percent capacity through the standard DC fast-charging system. Even at home, on a conventional 220V charger, the i3 only needs about three hours to get from empty to a full charge. For those who desire a bit more range, BMW offers a range extender -- a small 2-cylinder gasoline engine that functions as a generator. With the range extender, the i3 can travel about 180 miles until it needs a gas or charging station.

The cabin is accessed through a combination of traditional front doors and rear-hinged rear doors. Inside, the i3 uses a variety of materials available in several different color combinations, with trim packages named things like "Loft," "Lodge" and "Suite." Many of the materials are renewable, sewn from hemp, kinaff and other unconventional plant fibers. More traditional materials are available as well, if desired.

Standard equipment on the i3 is plentiful, and includes BMW's iDrive system, an integrated SIM card, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, heated front seats, plus rear mounted parking sensors and a stationary climate control system. Options include a navigation system that is smart enough to interact with the car and suggest alternate routes based on battery charge, adaptive LED headlights, a glass roof, automatic climate control, a rearview camera and several driver assistance functions

From the Manufacturer

ADRENALINE RUSHES JUST AS FAST IN KILOWATTS. The BMW i3 is one of the fastest BMWs off the line. Its incredibly responsive acceleration is felt immediately from a standstill with 184 lb-ft of pin-you-to-the-back-of-your-seat torque4 making for an exhilarating and exceedingly fun ride. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. After all, this EV is a BMW.	WE STARTED WITH FOUR WHEELS. AND CHANGED EVERYTHING ELSE. The unique construction of the BMW i3 makes it different from any other vehicle on the road. From its aerodynamic exterior to its innovative interior, this is an electric vehicle that was purpose-built to not just perform, but perform smarter.	GREEN STILL MEANS GO. With inherent BMW performance and undeniable agility, this is an electric vehicle that will change the way you think about driving. The unprecedented use of strong yet lightweight Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) makes the BMW i3 one of BMW’s lightest vehicles, contributing to both performance and efficiency. The BMW i3 is truly as innovative as the technology and renewable materials it contains.

SUSTAINABLE FROM THE INSIDE, OUT.

The open interior of the BMW i3 creates a new definition of luxury and is characterized by the visible use of natural resources. In fact, over 25% of the interior uses renewable raw and recycled materials. Inside, up to four passengers can also enjoy the vehicle’s surprising spaciousness (equivalent to that of a BMW 3 Series) in addition to 36.9 cubic feet of trunk space with rear seats folded flat.

A LIVING, BREATHING DASHBOARD.

Sustainable open-pore Eucalyptus Wood evolves with use, becoming richer in color over time. This option is available in both the Giga World and Tera World.

OLIVE LEAF TANNED LEATHER.

Available in both the Giga World and Tera World, a natural process derived from olive leaf extract tans the leather and protects against fading and wear.