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2018 BMW i3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 BMW i3 gets a mid-cycle update led by the new i3s, a sportier model with more power and sharper handling. The regular i3 also receives refreshed styling and updated equipment.
About the 2018 BMW i3
1st generation (I01), mid-cycle refresh year and first year for the i3s.
BMW positions the i3 as a premium small EV built around city driving, quick responses, and sustainability. The brand highlights its lightweight carbon-fiber structure, tall and roomy cabin, recycled and natural interior materials, and easy maneuverability in tight urban spaces. Compared with more conventional EV hatchbacks, the i3 stands out for its upright seating position, distinctive design, and tech-focused urban personality more than for long-distance range.
The regular i3 remains the city-focused choice, with a 170-hp electric motor, a 33.2-kWh battery, DC fast charging, navigation, and heated front seats. Range Extender versions add a small gasoline-powered generator for more driving flexibility. The new i3s is the performance-focused version, pairing a 184-hp motor and Sport mode with a lower suspension and wider stance.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
Every U.S.-market i3 now uses the larger 94 Ah, 33.2-kWh battery, and the older 60 Ah version is dropped. The new i3s and i3s with Range Extender use a stronger 184-hp electric motor, compared with 170 hp in the regular i3.
Styling
BMW revised the front and rear styling for a wider, more modern appearance. The i3s adds black exterior accents, flared wheel arches, and its own sportier look.
Safety
A rearview camera becomes standard across the lineup. BMW also revised the traction and stability control tuning for better response on slippery surfaces.
Tech
BMW’s newer iDrive 6 touchscreen interface arrives, and full LED headlights become standard. The smartphone interface changes from standard equipment to optional equipment.
Structural
The new i3s receives a lower sport suspension and a track that is 40 mm wider, giving it a broader stance and sharper responses. The regular i3’s underlying platform is unchanged.
2018 BMW i3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Automatic, 1-Spd | Automatic, 1-Spd | Automatic, 1-Spd | Automatic, 1-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.9 in | 31.9 in | 31.9 in | 31.9 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| MPGe Combined | 112 | 118 | 109 | 109 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| 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 is the biggest change to the 2018 BMW i3?
The biggest change is the introduction of the i3s, a sportier version with a 184-hp motor, Sport mode, a lower suspension, a wider stance, and model-specific styling. The full i3 lineup also receives a mid-cycle exterior and technology update.
How is the 2018 BMW i3s different from the regular i3?
The 2018 i3s has 184 hp instead of 170 hp, plus Sport mode, a lower sport suspension, a 40-mm wider track, flared wheel arches, and black exterior accents. Both versions use the same 33.2-kWh battery.
Does every 2018 BMW i3 have the larger battery?
Yes. Every U.S.-market 2018 BMW i3 uses the 94 Ah, 33.2-kWh battery. The smaller 60 Ah version offered previously was dropped.
Does the 2018 BMW i3 still have a Range Extender version?
Yes. Range Extender versions remain part of the 2018 lineup for both the regular i3 and the new i3s. They retain electric driving while using a small gasoline-powered generator for added driving flexibility.
What equipment became standard on the 2018 BMW i3?
Full LED headlights and a rearview camera became standard across the 2018 i3 lineup. BMW also introduced its newer iDrive 6 touchscreen interface, while the smartphone interface changed from standard to optional equipment.
2018 BMW i3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 BMW i3.
4.4
2018 BMW i3
(132 reviews)
“The BMWi3REx is perfect for me and my lifestyle. I love to drive it. Wish it had better electric range and more updated infotainment, especially compared to Tesla. But overall I like it better than the Tesla.”
“Best EV on the market, purpose built, not a repurposed ICE, carbon fiber built in my state, quirky design, S model best i3 yet, great range for the money, 360 mobility program”