BMW i3
Since its 2014 debut, the BMW i3 has made a name for itself as a city-friendly all-electric vehicle that's fun to drive. Its distinctive shape, crafted out of lightweight carbon fiber, signals this is no ordinary car. However, its peppy acceleration and nimble handling are both trademark BMW. Another i3 strong point is its airy, high-tech cabin, which features eco-friendly materials such as wool and eucalyptus. On the flip side, the i3's all-electric range, which maxes out at about 150 miles for the latest versions, could be a sticking point for some, even with its available range-extending engine. Additionally, its compact size, while a boon in the city, translates into limited cargo and rear-seat passenger space. Also, the i3's unique styling might not suit everyone's tastes.
Since its 2014 debut, the BMW i3 has made a name for itself as a city-friendly all-electric vehicle that's fun to drive. Its distinctive shape, crafted out of lightweight carbon fiber, signals this is no ordinary car. However, its peppy acceleration and nimble handling are both trademark BMW. Another i3 strong point is its airy, high-tech cabin, which features eco-friendly materials such as wool and eucalyptus. On the flip side, the i3's all-electric range, which maxes out at about 150 miles for the latest versions, could be a sticking point for some, even with its available range-extending engine. Additionally, its compact size, while a boon in the city, translates into limited cargo and rear-seat passenger space. Also, the i3's unique styling might not suit everyone's tastes.
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BMW i3 Owner Reviews
Average Rating for 2014
4.5
151 verified owner reviews
Top 2014 Reviews
Susan E. from CA
Verified Owner · Oct, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
The ride is super bumpy and jerky as a passenger. I don't feel it as much when I'm driving. There's a whistling sound when I'm driving. Sometimes the bluetooth has trouble syncing with my Audible app. Don't like there's no AM radio.
Michele R. from CA
Verified Owner · Sep, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
My fears: tires are so skinny they will not hold at high speeds, and fear of battery draining while out and about and not able to charge it
Greg B. from WA
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
Reliability issues have definitely skewed my satisfaction with this car. We love it in general, but have had too many issues to really feel great about it. QC? Engineering? Testing? Just got a lemon? Not sure what is going on...
Rafi P. from CA
Verified Owner · Aug, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
Excellent electric car. Based on this experience, I will always buy an electric car in the future, and most likely a BMW.
Simon C. from CA
Verified Owner · Jul, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
We love our new vehicle!
Oscar O. from CA
Verified Owner · Jul, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
Wish there were more accessible EV charging stations around.
Brian W. from CA
Verified Owner · Jun, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
This car is like a glimpse into the future. It's quiet, quick and nimble, comfortable, and costs NOTHING to operate, since I can charge it for free all over. I love it. It's a fantastic vehicle. Previously I had a 2001 BMW M5. Very fast and fun, but not so environmentally friendly. The i3 is also fast and fun, but super quiet and electric! I love it.
James W. from CA
Verified Owner · Jun, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base
Complaints are: 1> AM radio is disabled and there's no reason for that. (I've coded mine back on and it works great) 2> Owner's Manual describes features and options which aren't available in the US. 3> Voice recognition for playback of music doesn't work at all. 4> Door reflectors fell out 5> "Frunk" button had all the paint on the button flake off so it just looks like a white blob. Overall I do like the car. Certain options shouldn't be tied to interior color. I liked the Tera wheels but not the Tera interior. I'd rather have the Tera steering wheel in black with the blue stripe instead of my Giga Gray with the silver stripe. I want a rearview camera but don't really need the parking package. Why is keyless entry tied to the interior color? Who puts light gray carpets in a car? It should have all-weather rubber floor mats as standard. Why can't an additional battery be installed in the location where the gas generator goes since it is empty space on my BEV? Or for that matter in the empty space between the electric machine and the rear bumper. There's enough room there to hold a full-sized Samsonite suitcase.
Freesia T. from CA
Verified Owner · Jun, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
I absolutely love my new BMW i3... however, we need more level 3 chargers out there!!
David Z. from OR
Verified Owner · May, 2015
2014 BMW i3 Base Extended Range
i3 is excellent, exciting car to drive. Limited use for long trips with lots of cargo and 4 people. Suggested changes, additions include: power seats, power rear deck, better ventilation/air circulation in back seat, larger boot storage behind back seat. Design upgrade to an SUV would be awesome!