“This is a very fun car to drive! It doesn't have the longest battery life on the market, and is expensive compared to other EVs, but it is distinctive and great for getting around town and short commutes.”
2020 BMW i3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2020 BMW i3 was mostly a carryover year. Its main news was the limited i3s Edition RoadStyle, while the regular lineup stayed close to 2019.
About the 2020 BMW i3
1st generation i3/i3s (I01/I01s), introduced for 2014; 2020 is a late-cycle year after the 2019 120Ah battery update and before the final 2021 U.S. model year.
BMW positioned the i3 as a premium small electrified hatchback built mainly for city use but roomy and distinctive inside. Its core appeal was not maximum range; it was the combination of quick low-speed response, tiny exterior size, a tall airy cabin, sustainable interior materials, and unusual carbon-fiber construction. The model also stood apart by offering both all-electric trims and plug-in-hybrid Range Extender trims for shoppers who wanted more driving flexibility.
The regular i3 remained a compact electric hatchback focused on easy city driving, an airy cabin, and sustainable materials. The i3s added a stronger 181-hp motor, sport suspension, and 20-inch wheels, while Range Extender versions provided more day-to-day flexibility. Every version retained the 42.2-kWh battery, carbon-fiber passenger cell, and rear-hinged rear doors.
What changed, by category
Styling
BMW introduced the limited i3s Edition RoadStyle as a special edition. The regular trims received no broader styling update.
Tech
Apple CarPlay became standard on the regular i3 and i3s trims with the 6.5-inch navigation system.
2020 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 | 181 hp | 168 hp | 181 hp | 168 hp |
| Torque | 270 lb-ft | 250 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft | 250 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 | 113 | 113 | 100 | 100 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2020 BMW i3 compared with the 2019 model?
The 2020 BMW i3 changed very little. The limited i3s Edition RoadStyle was the main addition, and Apple CarPlay became standard on the regular trims.
Did the 2020 BMW i3 get a new battery or electric motor?
No, the 2020 BMW i3 carried over the 42.2-kWh battery and existing motors. The regular i3 used a 170-hp motor, while the sportier i3s used a 181-hp motor.
Does the 2020 BMW i3 have standard Apple CarPlay?
Yes, Apple CarPlay is standard on the regular 2020 BMW i3 and i3s trims through the 6.5-inch navigation system.
Did BMW still offer Range Extender versions of the 2020 i3?
Yes, Range Extender versions remained in the 2020 lineup for both the regular i3 and the sportier i3s. They paired the carried-over 42.2-kWh battery with the Range Extender setup for added flexibility.
Is the 2020 BMW i3 substantially different from the 2019 model?
No, the 2020 BMW i3 is mechanically very similar to the 2019 model. Its clearest everyday equipment difference is standard Apple CarPlay, while the limited Edition RoadStyle is the notable special edition.
2020 BMW i3 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 BMW i3.
4.4
2020 BMW i3
(76 reviews)
“The car handles well, very good pick up, is comfortable and I can drive around town a lot without having to charge it. It's a cute little car that can still handle a serious trip to Costco.”
“The only thing I can commend car has a great handling and acceleration. Does not have a grip because of tires. Generally, it is a great car for short commutes and very convenient if you have a 240v installment in your garage!”