“easy charging, good mile range, surprising good handling, and also I really like the height of the seat”
2017 BMW i3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big change for the 2017 BMW i3 is a new 94 Ah battery, which raises the regular electric model’s EPA range from 72 to 114 miles. BMW also adds a 60 Ah version that retains the original smaller battery.
About the 2017 BMW i3
1st generation (2014-2021), battery-upgrade year before the 2018 styling refresh.
BMW positions the i3 as a premium small EV built for city life, not as a conventional compact hatchback. Its identity centers on sustainable materials, a lightweight carbon-fiber passenger cell, quick low-speed electric response, and easy maneuverability in tight urban spaces. Compared with other EVs of its time, the i3 stands out for its tall seating position, airy cabin, rear-wheel-drive feel, and distinctive design. The Range Extender version broadens usability for drivers who want electric driving with a gasoline backup.
The 2017 lineup covers two different needs: the 60 Ah is the shorter-range entry model, while the regular i3 uses the larger 94 Ah battery for 114 miles of EPA range. The Range Extender also gets the 94 Ah battery and pairs it with a small gasoline generator and a 2.4-gallon fuel tank for longer trips. Every version has a 170-hp rear electric motor, DC fast-charging hardware, LED headlights, heated front seats, and navigation.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The regular battery-electric i3 moves from a 72-mile battery setup to a 94 Ah, 33.2-kWh battery with 27.2 kWh of usable capacity and 114 miles of EPA range. The Range Extender also moves to the 94 Ah battery and gains a larger 2.4-gallon fuel tank, while a 60 Ah model retains the original smaller battery with 81 miles of EPA range.
Styling
The 94 Ah battery-electric and Range Extender models gain Deka cloth upholstery made with recycled materials and a new standard 19-inch wheel design.
Tech
Proximity keyless entry and a smartphone interface move from optional to standard across the lineup. The 94 Ah models also add a universal garage-door opener as standard equipment.
2017 BMW i3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Automatic, 1-Spd | Automatic, 1-Spd | Automatic, 1-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 114 | 114 | 114 |
| MPGe Combined | 118 | 124 | 111 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2017 BMW i3?
The biggest change is the new 94 Ah battery. In the regular electric i3, it raises EPA range from 72 miles for 2016 to 114 miles for 2017 without changing the 170-hp electric motor.
Does every 2017 BMW i3 have the larger 94 Ah battery?
No. The regular battery-electric i3 and the Range Extender use the larger 94 Ah battery, while the 60 Ah model keeps the original smaller battery and has 81 miles of EPA range.
How did the 2017 BMW i3 Range Extender change?
The 2017 Range Extender gets the larger 94 Ah battery for more electric driving and a larger 2.4-gallon fuel tank for its gasoline generator. It also gains Deka cloth, proximity keyless entry, a universal garage-door opener, and a new 19-inch wheel design.
Is the 2017 BMW i3 a meaningful upgrade over the 2016 model?
Yes, if electric range matters. The regular electric model rises from 72 to 114 miles of EPA range, while the 2017 lineup still includes a 60 Ah version for drivers whose needs fit the original smaller battery.
What equipment became standard on the 2017 BMW i3?
Proximity keyless entry and a smartphone interface became standard across the 2017 lineup. The 94 Ah models also received Deka cloth, a universal garage-door opener, and a new 19-inch wheel design as standard equipment.
2017 BMW i3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 BMW i3.
4.5
2017 BMW i3
(394 reviews)
“excellent workmanship, excellent design of dashboard features, i.e. screens, environmental friendly interior, interesting design, packed with software, satisfactory battery capacity for city driving, BMW renown for high quality, excellent handling on streets.”
“If your lifestyle allows getting an electric car is the BEST! NO paying for gas and no stopping for gas. This car is super fun to drive and so easy to park and drive in a city!”