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BMW i3: battery, REx and what to check when buying a used electric car
BMW i3 — the city electric car with a carbon fibre body, produced from 2013 to 2022. We look at the battery versions, the REx variant, the interior and what to check when buying a used i3.
i3 in brief
The i3 was one of BMW's first mass-produced electric cars. Its passenger cell is made from carbon fibre, making the car light, while the rear-wheel drive with electric motor provides lively acceleration in the city.
The doors open in opposite directions (rear doors open against the flow of traffic), and the interior looks modern: plenty of recycled materials, a minimalist dashboard. The car is compact, yet spacious inside.
Which version to choose
The key choice is battery capacity. The earliest versions had around a 22 kWh battery, in 2016 a roughly 33 kWh (94 Ah) option arrived, and from 2018 there was around a 42 kWh (120 Ah) option. The more capacity, the longer the real-world range.
As well as the standard electric version, there was the REx — with a small petrol generator that extends the range. The sportier i3s has around 184 hp, the standard i3 around 170 hp.
Battery, power and charging
Most i3s have around a 170 hp motor and rear-wheel drive. The fast DC charging (CCS) port was an optional extra in early versions, so when buying check if the car has it.
The REx generation's engine acts as a backup option, not as the primary drive. Therefore, driving solely in REx mode, the car isn't particularly fast.
What to check when buying a used i3
Request a battery condition report and check if the car has a CCS port. The real-world range varies for each car.
In the REx version, check the engine operation and fuel tank. Ensure there are no error messages, and the door mechanisms operate smoothly.
Inspect the body — the carbon fibre body is sturdy but more expensive to repair. Also, check the tyres, as they are narrow and specific.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Atelier
All yearsThe main interior is bright and simple.
- Often — fabric and material trim
- Often — 19-inch wheels
- A more basic interior feel
Loft
All yearsA lighter, more natural interior with wood trim.
- Often — natural materials
- Often — a bright interior
- Often — extra trim
Lodge
All yearsLuxurious interior with leather.
- Often — leather trim
- Often — heated seats
- Often — additional comfort features
Suite
All yearsThe pinnacle of interior refinement.
- Often — premium leather trim
- Often — additional comfort features
- Often — upgraded sound system
i3s
from 2017Sportier version with a more powerful engine.
- Around 184 hp
- Sportier drive
- Often — distinctive alloy wheels
Comparing the versions
| i3 (22 kWh) | i3 (33 kWh) | i3 (42 kWh) | i3s | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who's it for | For the budget-conscious city dweller | For daily use | For longer journeys | For sporty driving |
| Battery | Around 22 kWh | Around 33 kWh | Around 42 kWh | Around 42 kWh |
| Power | Around 170 hp | Around 170 hp | Around 170 hp | Around 184 hp |
| Years | First year | From 2016 | From 2018 | From 2017 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the larger-battery (33 or 42 kWh) i3, ideally with a CCS port. The smallest battery is only suitable for short urban routes.
Pros
- Unique design and lightweight body
- Lively electric acceleration
- Compact and city-friendly
- Natural and recycled materials in the cabin
Cons
- Early versions have limited range
- Repairs after an accident can be costly
- Not all versions come with a fast-charging port
Frequently asked questions
How far does a BMW i3 go?
It depends on the battery: the 22 kWh version goes significantly less than the 42 kWh. Real-world range depends on weather and driving style.
What is the i3 REx?
This is the i3 with a small petrol generator that extends the driving range when the battery runs out. It's not the primary drive.
Is the i3 worth buying used?
Yes, if the battery is in good condition and the car has a CCS port. Larger battery versions are more practical for daily use.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
