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2016 BMW I3 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

BMW I3 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Spacious, futuristic cabin
  • Dynamic handling
  • Fast acceleration

Cons

  • Bold exterior styling
  • Limited cargo capacity
  • Quirky rear door design

72 - 81 miles

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Power up your driving

Embark on a journey of electrifying performance with the 2016 BMW i3. This electric four-door hatchback combines a sleek design with cutting-edge technology to redefine urban mobility. With seating for four and an innovative interior layout that maximizes floor space, the i3 offers adult-friendly comfort and style. Whether navigating city streets or cruising down the highway, the i3 delivers an exhilarating and efficient driving experience with two powertrain options offering practical range estimates.

All BMW I3 years

What is new for the 2016 BMW I3?

  • The I3 is available in a variety of new trims, including the Deka World, Deka World Range Extender, Giga World Range Extender, and Range Extender.
  • I3 trims have been upgraded with Smart Key, Bluetooth Technology, and Navigation System as standard equipment this year.
  • Lane Departure Warning and Remote Start features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Mega World trim now comes with Auxiliary Audio Input as standard equipment.
  • The Tera World trim now comes with Auxiliary Audio Input as standard equipment.

5 reasons to buy the 2016 BMW I3

1. Electrifying performance 

Experience exhilarating performance in the 2016 BMW i3. Featuring a potent 125-kilowatt electric motor and a 22-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, the i3 offers snappy acceleration and dynamic power delivery for confident driving maneuvers. Whether you choose the standard i3 or the i3 REX variant, both models boast an impressive 170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, guaranteeing direct power when you put your foot on the accelerator. From navigating bustling city streets to embarking on long-distance journeys, the i3's electric powertrain is a pleasure to pilot. 

2. Practical driving range 

Unlock driving freedom with the 2016 BMW i3's remarkable range capabilities. Opt for the standard i3 model and enjoy an EPA-estimated range of 81 miles on a full charge, providing ample flexibility for daily commutes and urban adventures.

For extended journeys, choose the i3 REX variant, boasting an impressive EPA-estimated 150 miles on a full charge and tank of gas.
With both powertrains, the i3 ensures that concerns about range are a thing of the past, allowing you to explore freely. 

3. Comfortable quarters 

Experience sophistication and modernity in the interior of the 2016 BMW i3. With its sleek design and innovative features, the cabin offers a quiet and stylish environment for running errands or nights on the town. The front seats provide comfort and excellent visibility, while the two-person rear seat offers ample stretch-out space with 31.9 inches of legroom. Thanks to the rear-hinged access doors, the wide opening makes it easy to climb into the back seat or fold the rear row flat to reveal a spacious cargo area of 36.9 cu-ft. With its thoughtful design and attention to detail, the i3 interior enhances comfort and functionality. 

4. Feature-rich interior 

When you choose the 2016 BMW i3, premium features aren't an upgrade – they are standard. With 19-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, automatic wipers, and auto-dimming mirrors included at the base level, every journey is enhanced with sophistication and style. In the 2016 BMW i3, you'll stay comfortable year-round with automatic climate control and heated front seats, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel adds a touch of elegance. With standard advanced technology like Bluetooth® phone and audio connectivity, a navigation system, and the iDrive interface, you'll stay connected and informed wherever the road takes you. Plus, with the added convenience of a standard DC fast-charging port, you'll spend less time waiting and more time motoring. 

5. Reason 

Enhance your drive with the 2016 BMW i3's many advanced driver aids. The available Technology + Driving Assistant package offers adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with pedestrian detection to make your commute convenient and confidence-rich. Automatic braking ensures quick responses in emergencies, and with the upgraded navigation system, you'll avoid slow-downs with real-time traffic updates and EV-related information. The optional Parking Assistant package also adds front parking sensors, a rearview camera, and automated parallel parking for effortless maneuvers. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4
Excellent

RepairPal gave the BMW I3 an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks BMW I3 1st out of 1 among Luxury Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the BMW I3

BMW I3 features and specs

Range Extender 2WD 4D Hatchback

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leatherette & Cloth
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Parking Sensors
  • Rear View Camera
  • Smart Key

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

0.6L

Horsepower

170

Torque (ft-lbs)

184

Engine type

Plug-in Hybrid

Fuel capacity

1.9

Wheelbase

101"

Overall length

157"

Width

70"

Height

62"

Leg room

F 40.5"/R 31.9"

Head room

F 39.6"/R 37.2"

Front tires

P155/70R19

Rear tires

P175/60R19

Seating capacity

4

Transmission

Automatic

2016 BMW I3 FAQ

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* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

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Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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