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Used 2021 BMW i3 for sale 

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2021 BMW i3  electric
41 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$18,799
Est. $255/mo
$4,175 Below market
RMV: $22,974
Price Drop, $200
Earlier Price: $18,999 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 12,754 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
62 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
Automatic
Hello Kia of Valencia
Valencia, CA
4.0
(Based 464 Review)
(661) 25*****
Check Availability
2021 BMW i3 S electric
34 Photos

2021 BMW i3 S electric

S 5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$21,480
Est. $291/mo
$4,643 Below market
RMV: $26,123
Price Drop, $1,950
Earlier Price: $23,430 (5 Nov 2024)
Mileage 22,451 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
56 Days in market
BLACK
Hatchback
Automatic
Freeman Motor Salem
Salem, OR
4.0
(Based 439 Review)
(503) 48*****
Check Availability
2021 BMW i3 Range Extender S electric
29 Photos

2021 BMW i3 Range Extender S electric

S Range Extender 5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$26,991
Est. $366/mo
$3,439 Below market
RMV: $30,430
Price Drop, $1,000
Earlier Price: $27,991 (17 Oct 2024)
Mileage 25,062 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
133 Days in market
WHITE
Hatchback
I2
Automatic
Winslow BMW
Colorado Springs, CO
4.0
(Based 535 Review)
(719) 47*****
Check Availability
52 Photos

2020 BMW i3 120 Ah electric

120 Ah w/Range Extender 5dr hatchback (electric DD 170 hp 1AM)

$17,200
Est. $233/mo
$2,876 Below market
RMV: $20,076
Price Drop, $1,650
Earlier Price: $18,850 (4 Nov 2024)
Mileage 45,093 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
30 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
I2
Automatic
Just Better Cars
Roseville, CA
4.0
(Based 656 Review)
(916) 58*****
Check Availability
Certified Pre-Owned
29 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$18,998
Est. $257/mo
$2,343 Below market
RMV: $21,341
Price Drop, $300
Earlier Price: $19,298 (16 Nov 2024)
Mileage 22,135 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
78 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 1753 Review)
(628) 22*****
Check Availability
Certified Pre-Owned
29 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$18,298
Est. $248/mo
$2,207 Below market
RMV: $20,505
Price Drop, $200
Earlier Price: $18,498 (16 Nov 2024)
Mileage 28,483 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
71 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 1753 Review)
(628) 22*****
Check Availability
23 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$19,399
Est. $263/mo
$2,746 Below market
RMV: $22,145
Price Drop, $2,100
Earlier Price: $21,499 (10 Nov 2024)
Mileage 20,675 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
125 Days in market
WHITE
Hatchback
Automatic
Ever Cars Co
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 45 Review)
(650) 844*****
Check Availability
42 Photos

2021 BMW i3 S electric

S 5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$22,152
Est. $300/mo
$4,633 Below market
RMV: $26,785
Price Drop, $666
Earlier Price: $22,818 (15 Nov 2024)
Mileage 17,779 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
33 Days in market
BLACK
Hatchback
Automatic
Culver City Chevrolet
Culver City, CA
4.0
(Based 1011 Review)
(424) 53*****
Check Availability
23 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$19,399
Est. $263/mo
$2,103 Below market
RMV: $21,502
Price Drop, $2,100
Earlier Price: $21,499 (10 Nov 2024)
Mileage 21,461 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
140 Days in market
BLUE
Hatchback
Automatic
Ever Cars Co
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 45 Review)
(650) 844*****
Check Availability
22 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$19,999
Est. $271/mo
$2,367 Below market
RMV: $22,366
Price Drop, $1,500
Earlier Price: $21,499 (16 Nov 2024)
Mileage 18,887 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
138 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
Automatic
Ever Cars Co
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 45 Review)
(650) 844*****
Check Availability
26 Photos

2021 BMW i3 Range Extender electric

Range Extender 5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$18,995
Est. $257/mo
$2,273 Below market
RMV: $21,268
Price Drop, $306
Earlier Price: $19,301 (16 Nov 2024)
Mileage 26,340 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
63 Days in market
BLUE
Hatchback
I2
Automatic
Car Team USA
Stuart, FL
5.0
(Based 35 Review)
(561) 559*****
Check Availability
38 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$18,895
Est. $256/mo
$2,821 Below market
RMV: $21,716
Price Drop, $100
Earlier Price: $18,995 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 20,607 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
54 Days in market
BLUE
Hatchback
Automatic
Import Masters
Great Neck, NY
3.0
(Based 553 Review)
(516) 85*****
Check Availability
Certified Pre-Owned
29 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$21,298
Est. $289/mo
$1,790 Below market
RMV: $23,088
Price Drop, $200
Earlier Price: $21,498 (20 Nov 2024)
Mileage 12,013 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
55 Days in market
BLACK
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 1753 Review)
(628) 22*****
Check Availability
Certified Pre-Owned
23 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$21,955
Est. $298/mo
$2,528 Below market
RMV: $24,483
Price Drop, $1,000
Earlier Price: $22,955 (15 Nov 2024)
Mileage 12,412 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
57 Days in market
BLUE
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of Mountain View
Mountain View, CA
4.0
(Based 5134 Review)
(650) 20*****
Check Availability

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36 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$18,266
Est. $247/mo
$2,407 Below market
RMV: $20,673
Price Drop, $100
Earlier Price: $18,366 (20 Nov 2024)
Mileage 26,825 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 1 Owner
22 Days in market
BLUE
Hatchback
Automatic
LA City Cars
Inglewood, CA
4.0
(Based 1265 Review)
(323) 31*****
Check Availability
27 Photos

2020 BMW i3 120 Ah electric

120 Ah w/Range Extender 5dr hatchback (electric DD 170 hp 1AM)

$20,995
Est. $285/mo
$2,152 Below market
RMV: $23,147
Price Drop, $1,000
Earlier Price: $21,995 (14 Nov 2024)
Mileage 22,376 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
213 Days in market
BLUE
Hatchback
I2
Automatic
Boulder Cars
Boulder, CO
5.0
(Based 117 Review)
(720) 44*****
Check Availability
Certified Pre-Owned
27 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$21,298
Est. $289/mo
$1,318 Below market
RMV: $22,616
Price Drop, $200
Earlier Price: $21,498 (20 Nov 2024)
Mileage 17,350 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
49 Days in market
WHITE
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 1753 Review)
(628) 22*****
Check Availability
23 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$18,955
Est. $257/mo
$1,723 Below market
RMV: $20,678
Price Drop, $1,000
Earlier Price: $19,955 (15 Nov 2024)
Mileage 33,534 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
33 Days in market
WHITE
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of Mountain View
Mountain View, CA
4.0
(Based 5134 Review)
(650) 20*****
Check Availability
Certified Pre-Owned
29 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$21,198
Est. $287/mo
$1,323 Below market
RMV: $22,521
Price Drop, $100
Earlier Price: $21,298 (20 Nov 2024)
Mileage 15,509 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
71 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 1753 Review)
(628) 22*****
Check Availability
23 Photos

2021 BMW i3 S electric

S 5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$20,999
Est. $285/mo
$1,790 Below market
RMV: $22,789
Price Drop, $500
Earlier Price: $21,499 (10 Nov 2024)
Mileage 14,848 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
146 Days in market
BLACK
Hatchback
Automatic
Ever Cars Co
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 45 Review)
(650) 844*****
Check Availability
Certified Pre-Owned
29 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$21,798
Est. $295/mo
$952 Below market
RMV: $22,750
Price Drop, $200
Earlier Price: $21,998 (20 Nov 2024)
Mileage 18,744 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
62 Days in market
WHITE
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
4.0
(Based 1753 Review)
(628) 22*****
Check Availability
37 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$20,914
Est. $283/mo
$1,632 Below market
RMV: $22,546
Price Drop, $153
Earlier Price: $21,067 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 12,819 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
21 Days in market
Hatchback
Automatic
The Taverna Collection
Hollywood, FL
4.0
(Based 1239 Review)
(954) 27*****
Check Availability
13 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$19,999
Est. $271/mo
$1,450 Below market
RMV: $21,449
Price Drop, $871
Earlier Price: $20,870 (17 Nov 2024)
Mileage 17,006 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
8 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
Automatic
Auto Web Expo
Carrollton, TX
4.0
(Based 1433 Review)
(469) 88*****
Check Availability
41 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$20,037
Est. $272/mo
$1,667 Below market
RMV: $21,704
Price Drop, $411
Earlier Price: $20,448 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 12,464 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
82 Days in market
BLUE
Hatchback
Automatic
Taverna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat
Plantation, FL
4.0
(Based 11 Review)
(954) 738*****
Check Availability

About 2021 BMW i3 electric


3.5

Overall Rating

Ever since it was first launched, the BMW i3 pioneered the brand into the electric car segment and allowed it to cater to a new class of environment-conscious buyers.

Ever since it was first launched, the BMW i3 pioneered the brand into the electric car segment and allowed it to cater to a new class of environment-conscious buyers. Bearing an MSRP of $45,445 for its base variant, the 2021 BMW i3, continues as a carryover model from last year with similar specifications with the exception of the standardized adaptive headlights.

Like it has always done, the 2021 BMW i3, sports a luxuriant yet minimalistic cabin that resonates with an ultra-modern and contemporary aura. It houses a motor and battery setup that propels the vehicle towards glory in the segment. While it does fall under the umbrella of BMW’s distinctively styled vehicles, the i3 suffers from its share of problems like its higher price tag. In its segment, the BMW i3 competes head-on with the likes of the Kia Niro EV and Chevrolet Bolt EV.

While all trims of the BMW i3 are adequately equipped and deliver decent performance levels, the BMW i3s is the best bet in the segment. Not only does it stay true to its authentic electric feeling, but the i3s also adds an extra oomph factor to the vehicle with its higher power and torque outputs. However, if you’re someone not looking for an all-electric BMW i3, the i3s Range Extender with the additional gasoline-powered units seem to be a viable choice.

Certified Pre-Owned
32 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 S electric

S 5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$24,788
Est. $336/mo
$810 Below market
RMV: $25,598
Mileage 15,654 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
8 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
Automatic
Arrowhead BMW
Glendale, AZ
4.0
(Based 1066 Review)
(623) 20*****
Check Availability
25 Photos

2021 BMW i3 Range Extender S electric

S Range Extender 5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$25,491
Est. $346/mo
$744 Below market
RMV: $26,235
Price Drop, $2,501
Earlier Price: $27,992 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 54,223 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
30 Days in market
GRAY
Hatchback
I2
Automatic
BMW of Carlsbad
Encinitas, CA
4.0
(Based 29 Review)
(760) 20*****
Check Availability
Certified Pre-Owned
6 Photos

Certified 2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$19,900
Est. $270/mo
$1,174 Below market
RMV: $21,074
Price Drop, $2,000
Earlier Price: $21,900 (7 Nov 2024)
Mileage 31,353 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
48 Days in market
BLUE
Hatchback
Automatic
BMW of Concord
Concord, CA
4.0
(Based 1698 Review)
(888) 70*****
Check Availability
39 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$22,500
Est. $305/mo
$654 Below market
RMV: $23,154
Price Drop, $500
Earlier Price: $23,000 (31 Oct 2024)
Mileage 19,437 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
106 Days in market
BLACK
Hatchback
Automatic
Certified Benz and Beemer
Scottsdale, AZ
4.0
(Based 1772 Review)
(866) 34*****
Check Availability
33 Photos

2020 BMW i3 120 Ah electric

120 Ah w/Range Extender 5dr hatchback (electric DD 170 hp 1AM)

$19,999
Est. $271/mo
$1,031 Below market
RMV: $21,030
Price Drop, $1,000
Earlier Price: $20,999 (18 Sep 2024)
Mileage 42,074 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
224 Days in market
RED
Hatchback
I2
Automatic
BMW Fresno
Fresno, CA
4.0
(Based 499 Review)
(559) 44*****
Check Availability
64 Photos

2021 BMW i3 electric

5dr Hatchback (electric DD)

$18,989
Est. $257/mo
$675 Below market
RMV: $19,664
Price Drop, $911
Earlier Price: $19,900 (15 Nov 2024)
Mileage 25,826 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
149 Days in market
WHITE
Hatchback
Automatic
Auto Web Expo
Carrollton, TX
4.0
(Based 1433 Review)
(469) 88*****
Check Availability

2021 BMW i3 electric Review


Pros

  • Aesthetic Design
  • Nimble and agile ride quality
  • Upmarket cabin quality

Cons

  • Constrained cargo space
  • Expensive, as compared to rivals
  • Less practical

Ever since it was first launched, the BMW i3 pioneered the brand into the electric car segment and allowed it to cater to a new class of environment-conscious buyers.

Overview


Ever since it was first launched, the BMW i3 pioneered the brand into the electric car segment and allowed it to cater to a new class of environment-conscious buyers. Bearing an MSRP of $45,445 for its base variant, the 2021 BMW i3, continues as a carryover model from last year with similar specifications with the exception of the standardized adaptive headlights.

Like it has always done, the 2021 BMW i3, sports a luxuriant yet minimalistic cabin that resonates with an ultra-modern and contemporary aura. It houses a motor and battery setup that propels the vehicle towards glory in the segment. While it does fall under the umbrella of BMW’s distinctively styled vehicles, the i3 suffers from its share of problems like its higher price tag. In its segment, the BMW i3 competes head-on with the likes of the Kia Niro EV and Chevrolet Bolt EV.

Pricing and Features
7.0/10


Like the 2020 model, the 2021 BMW i3 is offered in similar trim levels: i3, i3 S, i3 Range Extender, and i3 S Range Extender. With a price hike of $995 across its trim levels, the 2021 BMW i3 is priced at $45,445 for its base variant.

Besides its standard features, the BMW i3 is offered with a number of customization options that make the car exciting, quirky, and practical. Being a long-standing electric offering, the 2021 BMW i3 has been curated to meet the needs of the traditional buyers looking for a cost-effective and fuel-frugal vehicle.

Trim

BMW i3

BMW i3 S 

BMW i3 Range

Extender

BMW i3 S Range

Extender

MSRP (Expected)

$45,445

$48,645

$49,295

$52,495

Key Features

Rear Spoiler

Adds or retains features of i3

Adds or retains features of i3 S

Adds or retains features of i3 Range Extender

 

Rearview Camera

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic Roof

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic Roof

Slide through interior floor design

 

Rear Parking Aid

Multi-function Steering Wheel

Slide through interior floor design

Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel Column

 

Daytime Running Lights

BMW Teleservice USB Connection

Velour floor mats

Rearview Camera and Rear Parking Aid

 

Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel

Rear Coach Doors

Rear Coach Doors

Electronic Interior Trunk

 

Heated Front Seats

Kenaf interior dash and door panels

Heated Front Seats

Heated Front Seats

2021 BMW i3 Buying Advice

While all trims of the BMW i3 are adequately equipped and deliver decent performance levels, the BMW i3s is the best bet in the segment. Not only does it stay true to its authentic electric feeling, but the i3s also adds an extra oomph factor to the vehicle with its higher power and torque outputs. However, if you’re someone not looking for an all-electric BMW i3, the i3s Range Extender with the additional gasoline-powered units seem to be a viable choice.

Engine and Performance
8.2/10


As a carryover model from the previous year, the 2021 BMW i3 continues with a similar powertrain setup. While both trims of the electric hatchback make use of a 42KwH battery pack, the i3 and i3s have distinctive power and torque outputs. With the BMW i3, the engine is good for 168hp and 110lb.-ft, while the higher placed i3 S has similar torque, it produces 181hp of power.

While there are two engine options to choose from, the BMW i3 is available with a standard transmission setup. The i3 comes equipped with a single-speed direct transmission, that shifts effortlessly through higher speeds allowing for supple and comfortable ride quality. As standard, all trims of the BMW i3 are RWD variants and transfer power to the rear wheels of the vehicle.

The 2021 BMW i3 can sprint from 0-60mph in 7.2 seconds. While its quarter-mile timings are not yet known, the i3 records a top speed of 93 MPH. The i3’s performance may seem decent for a car of its size and for the class it falls in, but the Kia Niro EV and Chevrolet Bolt EV remain almost half a second quicker.

Model

BMW i3

Kia Niro EV

Chevrolet Bolt EV

MSRP

$45,445

$39,090

$37,495

Engine

Electric

Electric

Electric

Drivetrain

RWD

RWD

RWD

Transmission

1-speed direct drive

1-speed direct drive

1-speed direct drive

Power

168hp

201hp

200hp

Torque

110lb.-ft

291lb.-ft

266lb.-ft

0-60 MPH (seconds)

7.2 seconds

6.7 seconds

6.5 seconds

Quarter mile (mph)

N/A

14.8 seconds

14.8 seconds

Top Speed (MPH)

93 MPH

104 MPH

93 MPH

The 2021 BMW i3 despite its slower acceleration maintains excitement and quirkiness in its ride quality. Apart from its agility, the i3 is curated to provide a thrilling experience by virtue of its adaptive suspension system. Additionally, the ride quality of the BMW i3 is enhanced by the quick response timings through the transmission and its efficient working in tandem with the engine.

Fuel Economy
8.0/10


Being an all-electric offering, the 2021 BMW i3 upholds a high level of fuel efficiency. It vaunts of economical fuel figures as its strongest suit. It offers 129 miles in the city, 106 miles on the highway, leading to a combined efficiency of 118 miles. While the distance covered with the BMW i3 is claimed to be 153 miles with the i3 and i3 S trims, the Range Extender models are rated at 126 miles. All trims of the 2021 BMW i3 are expected to be fully charged in under 6 hours.

Model

BMW i3

Kia Niro EV

Chevrolet Bolt EV

MPGE (city)

124

123

128

MPGE (Highway)

102

102

110

MPGE (Combined)

113

112

119

Range (miles)

153 miles

239 miles

259 miles

In the segment, the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV is the most fuel-efficient hatchback in the segment and averages 119 miles per gallon of fuel. On the other hand, the 2021 Kia Niro EV remains a notch below the BMW i3 and manages 112 MPG. In terms of range, both competitors of the BMW i3 can cover considerably higher distances in a single recharge.

Interior
6.5/10


The similarities between the outgoing model and the 2021 BMW i3 extend to its interior design as well. In its fit and finish, the 2021 i3 continues with an upmarket and commodious cabin that can seat five passengers. While there are no complaints about the way the cabin has been structured, the constrained space for rear-seat occupants seems to be the only obstacle in an otherwise affable cabin.

In its build, not only is the 2021 BMW i3 sturdy, but it also is hi-tech and clutter-free. As soon as one step insides the cabin of the BMW i3, an air of futuristic and ultra-modern aura with the wooden accents and leather-wrapped steering wheel engulfs him. Its envisioned minimalistic take on plush cabins is its biggest takeaway.

The BMW i3 sports a 6.5-inch display screen that is centrally placed.It makes use of BMW’s Navigation system with iDrive Controller. It is also equipped with HD Radio and Sirius XM Satellite Radio. As an optional offering, BMW makes available the Harman Kardon Premium Sound System at the buyer’s disposal.

Model

BMW i3

Kia Niro EV

Chevrolet Bolt EV

Seating Capacity

4

5

5

Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)

39.8/53.6/40.5

40.1/56/41.7

39.7/54.6/41.6

Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)

37.2/49.2/31.9

37.7/55.1/36

37.9/52.8/36.5

Cargo capacity (with all rows upright)

15.1

19.4

16.9

In terms of interior space, the BMW i3 has lower space on offer compared to its competitors because of its smaller proportions and dimensions. Even in terms of cargo capacity, the i3’s 15.1 cubic feet of trunk volume is at least 2 cubic feet lower than its competitors. In the segment, the BMW i3 is the only hatchback that can seat four passengers. The Kia Niro and Chevrolet Bolt can seat five passengers. Both competitors of the BMW i3 manage higher space both for the occupants and cargo.

Some interior features of the 2021 BMW i3 include:

  • Heated Front Seats
  • Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
  • Single Zone Front Climate Control
  • Technology + Driving Assist Package
  • Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
  • Extended Cabin Heating
  • Wireless Charging

Exterior
6.0/10


Unlike every other aspect, the 2021 BMW i3 does receive one minor update on the outside with the introduction of the adaptive headlights as a standard offering. The 2021 i3 continues to look like a subcompact car with the dual-tone color schematics adding a tint of excitement to its design.

2021 BMW i3 electric Hatchback Front Angle View

All things said the 2021 BMW i3 does bear an impressive and striking design. With a tad bit of resemblance to the BMW i8, the i3 carries forward its futuristic and ultra-modern design. The rear doors are hinged backward and open in opposite directions to the front doors, which though visually pleasing do affect the car’s practicality in the long run.

Model

BMW i3

Kia Niro EV

Chevrolet Bolt EV

Curb Weight (lbs)

2972

3854

3563

Length (in.)

158.3

172.2

164

Width (in.)

69.9

71.1

69.5

Height (in.)

62.9

61.8

62.8

Ground Clearance (in.)

N/A

6.3

N/A

Wheelbase (in.)

101.2

106.3

102.4

The 2021 BMW i3 the tallest car in the segment, yet it is the smallest in overall dimensions when compared to its direct competitors. While it is diminutively wider than the Chevrolet Bolt EV, it is at least 6 inches shorter in length and consequently, has a smaller wheelbase and less space for rear-seat occupants. Some of the exterior features of the BMW i3 include:

  • Black Mirror Caps
  • BMW i Turbine-spoke wheels
  • Premium Paint
  • Rear Lip Spoiler
  • Body-colored Door Handles
  • Dual-tone Body Paint

Safety
9.2/10


The 2021 BMW i3 receives high scores across the board in the crash-tests conducted by the IHS. While it has not been rated by the NHTSA, the BMW i3 comes equipped with a large number of active and passive safety features like its 2020 counterpart, which speaks volumes about the hatchback’s capabilities. Given the brand’s standards of safety and reliability, the 2021 i3 is undoubtedly dependable and reliable. Some of its safety specifications include:

  • Acoustic Pedestrian Protection
  • Rearview Camera and Rear Parking Aid
  • Adaptive Headlights
  • Anti-theft alarm system
  • Emergency Braking Preparation
  • Dusk Sensing Headlamps

Competition
6.0/10


2021 BMW i3 vs 2021 Kia Niro EV

The Kia Niro EV may be a better performer when it comes to acceleration and range that the car can cover, but it lacks the sophistication and plushness that the BMW i3 possesses.

Amongst the two, the i3 scores highly by virtue of its futuristic cabin and exterior design and a large number of standard features. However, the Kia Niro’s likability increases manifold because of its rather affordable price sticker and higher seating capacity and interior space.

2021 BMW i3 vs 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is better than the BMW i3 in almost every imaginable aspect. While it does lack a distinction in its design, the Bolt EV performs better by virtue of its powerful and fuel-conservative engine.

In addition, it sports higher space for the passengers and a larger trunk. The Chevrolet Bolt EV manages to deliver better performance than the BMW i3, even at a rather affordable price.

Final Verdict


Like every other model year of the BMW i3, the 2021 iteration is a top-notch, premium, and multi-faceted. While it does cater to the environment-conscious segment of the market, the i3’s Range Extender trims allow it to capture the fence-sitters, skeptical about an all-electric vehicle. With its minimalistic and contemporary design, the 2021 BMW i3 will leave you grinning with its design and build quality. However, the only point of criticism of the i3 we expect is its slower acceleration and lower range coverage when compared to competitors. However, given its multi-purpose nature, the 2021 BMW i3 will make for a viable option in the segment.