“How long is your commute? Electric range is good but not great. For short commutes like mine this is a great car. For longer drives not so much. Driving in gas mode is loud and a bit embarrassing.”
2016 BMW i3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 BMW i3 is a carryover year with no major changes to the core lineup. A limited 50-unit Shadow Sport Edition was the only notable wrinkle.
About the 2016 BMW i3
1st generation i3 (I01, 2014-2021), third model year; still the early 60 Ah version, before the 2017 94 Ah battery upgrade and before the later facelift/i3s updates.
BMW positioned the i3 as a premium urban electric car rather than a conventional small hatchback. Its big selling points were zero-emission city driving, quick electric response, a purpose-built carbon-fiber structure, rear-wheel-drive handling, and connected route-planning tools designed around everyday charging and short-trip use. Compared with other EVs of its time, the i3 leaned more heavily on light weight, maneuverability, and upscale design than on long-distance range.
The all-electric i3 remained a compact premium city car focused on commuting, easy maneuverability and straightforward charging. The Range Extender version kept the same 170-hp rear electric motor while adding its plug-in-hybrid setup for greater trip flexibility. Both versions featured heated front seats, built-in navigation, a 6.5-inch display and LED lighting.
2016 BMW i3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Automatic, 1-Spd | Automatic, 1-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 72 | 72 |
| MPGe Combined | 124 | 117 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2016 BMW i3 compared with the 2015 model?
No major changes were made for 2016. The core all-electric and Range Extender versions carried over with the same early 60 Ah battery, 170-hp rear electric motor and basic equipment structure.
Did the 2016 BMW i3 get a larger battery?
No, the 2016 i3 retained the early 60 Ah battery. The larger 94 Ah battery arrived for the 2017 model year.
Was the 2016 BMW i3 sold as both an EV and a Range Extender?
Yes, the 2016 lineup included a fully electric i3 and an i3 Range Extender with a plug-in-hybrid range-extender configuration. Both used a 170-hp rear electric motor and rear-wheel drive.
What was the 2016 BMW i3 Shadow Sport Edition?
The Shadow Sport Edition was a limited 50-unit version of the 2016 i3. It sat outside the normal base and Range Extender trims and did not represent a broader update to the core lineup.
Did the 2016 BMW i3 receive new styling or technology?
No, the standard 2016 i3 lineup received no broad styling redesign or technology upgrade. Its major standard-equipment additions had already arrived for 2015.
2016 BMW i3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 BMW i3.
4.3
2016 BMW i3
(119 reviews)
“Only issue with this vehicle is miles on the charge but i knew this before i bought.”
“The BMW i3 is a technologically advanced electric vehicle. It led the way in BMW's development of a robust series of EVs, many of which offer more comprehensive features (such as battery range). It's a great size for a single person, with a roomy and very comfortable interior. It's great fun to drive, too.”