2017 BMW i3: A Forward-Thinking Electric City Car
The 2017 BMW i3 stands as a testament to BMW's commitment to sustainable mobility, offering a unique blend of compact city car practicality with premium electric performance and innovative design. This compact hatchback prioritizes efficiency and a distinctive driving experience, making it a compelling choice for urban dwellers and eco-conscious consumers.
Highlights
- Powertrain: The i3 is powered by a compact, high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor. For 2017, buyers could choose between two configurations:
- i3 (BEV): This all-electric model delivers 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration ideal for city driving.
- i3 with Range Extender (REX): This variant adds a small gasoline engine that acts solely as a generator to recharge the battery, significantly extending the overall driving range. The REX model offers the same electric power output as the BEV, with the added benefit of flexibility for longer journeys.
- Safety Features: The 2017 BMW i3 was equipped with a suite of advanced safety features designed to protect occupants and enhance situational awareness:
- Dynamic Stability Control (DSC): This system automatically applies brakes and reduces engine power to help the driver maintain control during extreme steering maneuvers or loss of traction.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to retain steering control.
- Cornering Brake Control (CBC): CBC ensures stable braking even when turning, preventing unintended rotation of the vehicle.
- Available Driver Assistance Packages: Optional packages often included features like:
- Active Driving Assistant: Utilizes cameras and sensors to warn of potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply brakes to mitigate or avoid an accident.
- Parking Assistant: Aids in parallel parking maneuvers, making tight urban parking significantly easier.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on highways.
- Trims: While BMW offered various option packages that could be bundled, the primary distinction in 2017 was between the all-electric i3 (BEV) and the i3 with Range Extender (REX). The interior design was also modular, with different "Giga," "Tera," and "Lodge" interior trim levels offering varying materials and aesthetic choices.
- Innovative Construction: The i3 utilizes a unique "Life Module" (passenger cell) made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and a "Drive Module" (chassis and powertrain) constructed from aluminum. This lightweight construction contributes to its agility and efficiency.
- Distinctive Design: The i3 boasts a polarizing yet undeniably futuristic exterior design with its tall, narrow stance, suicide doors (rear-hinged rear doors), and aerodynamic profile. The interior is equally avant-garde, featuring a minimalist aesthetic with sustainable materials like responsibly sourced wood and recycled plastics.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 BMW i3 generally offers a refined and engaging urban driving experience. The electric powertrain provides instant torque, making it exceptionally responsive from a standstill and a joy to navigate through city traffic. The tight turning radius and compact dimensions further enhance its maneuverability.
- Maintenance: As an electric vehicle, the i3 typically requires less maintenance than a comparable gasoline-powered car. Routine maintenance items like oil changes are eliminated. Owners can expect to focus on checks for tires, brakes (which often last longer due to regenerative braking), suspension components, and battery health. The availability of specialized BMW i service centers is important to ensure proper care.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2017 i3 can vary based on location, driving record, and coverage choices. As a premium electric vehicle with advanced technology, it might carry slightly higher insurance premiums compared to a standard compact car. However, its lower mileage potential in urban settings could also positively impact premiums for some drivers.
- Charging: Charging the i3 can be done at home via a standard outlet (Level 1 charging, which is slow) or more efficiently with a dedicated Level 2 home charging station. Public charging stations are also readily available in many urban areas. The i3 also supports DC fast charging (Level 3), which can significantly replenish the battery in a shorter timeframe.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 BMW i3 excels in many areas, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Limited Electric-Only Range (for BEV): The all-electric i3 (BEV) model has an EPA-estimated range of around 81 miles on a full charge. While sufficient for many urban commutes, it might be limiting for drivers who frequently undertake longer journeys without access to charging infrastructure. The Range Extender model addresses this concern but introduces the complexity of a gasoline engine.
- Rear Seat Access and Space: The unconventional suicide doors for the rear passengers can make entry and exit a bit more challenging, especially for individuals with mobility issues or when parking in tight spaces. Rear seat space is also more suited for children or occasional adult passengers.
- Ride Comfort: Due to its lightweight construction and focus on agility, the i3's ride can feel somewhat firm, especially on less-than-perfect road surfaces. This is a common characteristic of many smaller, performance-oriented vehicles.
- Styling: The i3's polarizing exterior design is a matter of personal preference. While some appreciate its avant-garde aesthetic, others may find it too unconventional.
Overall Summary
The 2017 BMW i3 is a compelling and forward-thinking compact electric vehicle that delivers an engaging driving experience, a unique design, and a strong commitment to sustainability. It's an excellent choice for city dwellers prioritizing efficiency, maneuverability, and a premium feel. While its electric-only range might require consideration for some, the availability of the Range Extender model and the growing charging infrastructure make it a practical and innovative option for a modern automotive lifestyle.
