The BMW i3 launched only five years ago but it’s starting to feel like the old man in the segment. Since then, so many new competitors have debuted, most of which with longer ranges, that is seems that the little electric BMW, once a shining beacon of the EV future, is playing in the past. In fact, even much less expensive EVs are boasting similar or better total driving ranges, similar interior tech and similar power. Take the Hyundai Ioniq for example. It’s cheaper, has almost the same range and just as much tech. So Which Car decided to test it back-to-back with the BMW i3S.
Ever think you’d see the day when a BMW was being directly compared to a Hyundai eco-sedan? Well, that day is here. To be honest, it’s not really directly comparing them, because Which Car admits that these two cars offer decidedly different experiences. However, it does show the value proposition of the Hyundai and just how far the segment has come since the i3’s debut back in 2014.
We won’t spoil the results because it’s a good read and one worth checking out but it’s interesting to see the BMW i3S take on a much cheaper competitor from a manufacturer that would never have been thought to compete with BMW back when the i3 first launched. In fact, after reading the comparison, the Hyundai seems a bit ahead of the BMW i3S. Not only does it provide a similar range (230 km to the BMW i3S’ 260 km) but it’s significantly cheaper to buy.
The BMW i3S is still a great car, one that’s quick, fun to drive and stylish. However, it’s losing a bit of its luster, as its range is still lacking compared to many other EVs and its style, while still funky, is proving to be less practical than other traditionally-shaped competitors. So while it was an EV icon just a few years ago, it’s starting to show its age quickly.
[Source: Which Car]
the onlt thing i like about the i3 is the cabin the rest is ugly and its range is also not enough
Because BMW chose original & unique, i3 will remain as much of a design icon as Isetta, 700, 1500, Mini, 2002. How does a vehicle that is ahead of its time & continues to increase sales volume annually “show its age quickly”? Hyundai looks like a Prius wearing a Model 3 dental dam. i4 may well look conservative compared to years old i3 on debut.
I’d say there’s a very sophomoric mis-characterization of the ride, and therefore, a poor review.
Is it harsher on S?
If there’s one issue with the i3 it’s got to be the range. In theory you would be able to get up to 260km but 200km is a more realistic target and even lesser if it’s in a hot climate country filled with traffic jams like where I live at the moment.
I find the new i3 range of 150+ miles more than sufficient, but, I’d get the REX option for rural Pennsylvania travel.
Why does anyone buy a BEV if range is their issue? Diesel!
Drive an electric i3 and answer your own question. At this point it time everyone should know the instant response, smooth power and quiet ride are superior to all other transportation solutions. Diesel doesn’t even beat gas, how would it compete with electric?
Exactly! Anyone making range the issue on a BEV misses the point, yet they still try even with new MINI SE. If range were my issue I would buy a diesel, because I live in the city, it’s not & BEV works. If I lived in the country I’d get an i3 & solar carport, be off the grid forever!