Why Lease The i3?
Launched in 2013, the BMW i3 has played a major role in helping to bring electric cars into the mainstream.
Part of BMW’s ‘i’ electric line-up, this innovative and funky city car continues to impress with its bespoke design, impressive performance and fun-to-drive aesthetics, taking on rivals such as the Nissan LEAF, Renault Zoe and Volkswagen ID.3 in an increasingly competitive market.
Our BMW i3 review covers:
- Contemporary exterior design with swept-back headlamps and metallic blue trim
- Futuristic interior with upmarket materials and 10-inch infotainment screen as standard
- 260-litre boot with 50:50 split rear seats
- 42.2kWh battery and an electric motor for 168bhp or 181bhp
- Two versions to choose from, including the standard i3 and sportier i3s
With its tall and narrow proportions, swept-back headlamps, heavily sculpted body panels and metallic blue trim on the grille and lower sills, the BMW i3 certainly stands out from more conventional city cars on the market. The i3’s unique body style also helps keep weight to a minimum and increase interior space for driver and passengers.
Despite its compact dimensions, the i3’s clever design makes this unique city car feel roomy inside. Space at the front is generous, thanks to the movement of the gear selector to the steering column instead of between the seats. There are also plenty of neat storage options, including a glovebox with a top opening lid, armrest storage, cup-holders and cargo nets.
At the back, the i3 only has two seats in the back, although both have an Isofix child seat mounting point, making it easier to secure a child car seat. The rear seats also fold flat in a 50:50 configuration, making for extra room when required.
At 260-litres, the i3’s boot is just about big enough for a modest load of weekly groceries, but overall, the Renault Zoe and Nissan LEAF offer more in the way of practicality. That said, the boot floor itself is flat, and there’s no awkward lip to lift items over, growing the load capacity to 1,100 litres with the seats folded down.
Inside, the i3’s futuristic feel continues with its airy interior, imaginatively designed dashboard and upmarket materials. The controls are beautifully laid out with BMW’s brilliant iDrive 10-inch infotainment screen offered as standard. Where possible, BMW has also used recycled materials to enhance the vehicle’s eco-friendliness further. All of this adds up to a level of interior quality that puts some more expensive EVs, such as the Tesla Model 3, to shame.
There are two versions to choose from - the standard i3 or the sportier i3s. BMW offers several packages and options instead of trim levels, with interior trim choices, sorted into four ‘worlds’: Atelier, Loft, Lodge and Suite.
Standard equipment includes a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, automatic air conditioning, Apple CarPlay, heated front seats and BMW’s ‘Professional’ navigation system. You can also add optional extras, including a park-assist package, an electric glass sunroof and a Harman Kardon sound system.
The i3 is powered by a 42.2kWh battery and an electric motor for 168bhp and a range of 188 miles on the standard i3, or 181bhp and a 175-mile range on the sportier i3s.
The electric motor sends its power to the rear wheels for a more composed drive regardless of which model you choose. The electric motor’s instant torque also makes for rapid acceleration, achieving a 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds – or 6.9 seconds in the more powerful i3s – and a top speed of between 93mph to 99mph.
Out on the road, the i3 is infused with BMW’s fun driving experience. The steering feels responsive and agile, and the tight turning circle is ideally suited for city life, allowing you to slip into tight parking spots with ease.
Unfortunately, the i3 isn’t quite as comfortable on the road as the Zoe or the LEAF, its stiff suspension and large alloy wheels highlighting any bumps in the road. Wind and tyre noise also increases at high speeds on the motorway.
Prices for the new BMW i3 start from £33,900.00 OTR* or to lease from Price On Request per month.
Thinking of going green for 2021? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has some fantastic car leasing deals on a wide range of electric cars, including the BMW i3. Our lease deals include the full manufacturer’s warranty, road tax, breakdown cover, and free mainland GB delivery, direct to your door (exclusions apply).
*'On the road' price correct at time of publication and typically includes one year’s road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Always check with the manufacturer.
