The i3 was the first mass-produced electric vehicle from BMW with a carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell that ensure's it's super lightweight. Even with the battery installed, the kerb weight is similar to that of petrol and diesel cars of the same size. Many of the components were constructed from renewable raw materials. With more than 200,000 examples built, BMW discontinued the i3 lineup in 2022 while it was still in its first generation.
Used BMW i3 cars for sale
Why buy a used BMW i3?
If you're in the market for a used electric car that's compact, modern and distinctive, then a used BMW i3 is a great choice. The electric powertrain is surprisingly fast, provides good handling and offers a tight turning circle for exceptional manoeuvrability. It has a stylish interior that includes high-tech equipment and top-notch comfort features for a compelling all-round used car package.
Latest used BMW i3
BMW, i3
2021 - BMW i3
12Low Mileage
£16,298
- 0L
- Miles
13.2K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
Arnold Clark Edinburgh Seafield MG
BMW, i3
2021 - BMW i3
12Low Mileage
£16,998
- 0L
- Miles
18.9K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
Arnold Clark Click & Collect Swansea
BMW, i3
2020 - BMW i3
Low Mileage
£14,980
- 0L
- Miles
24.9K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
Marshall Volvo Derby
BMW, i3
2019 (19) - BMW i3
15£13,995
Finance available £290 pm
*Representative example
- 0L
- Miles
57.9K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
My Next Car
BMW, i3
2018 (68) - BMW i3
1Low Mileage
£13,980
Finance available £290 pm
*Representative example
- 0L
- Miles
22.0K
- Hybrid - Petrol/Electric
- Automatic
- Not Supplied
Rivendell Cars Limited
BMW, i3
2018 - BMW i3
52Low Mileage
£12,985
- 0L
- Miles
21.9K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
Marshall Mercedes-Benz of Winchester
BMW, i3
2021 - BMW i3
12Reduced
£16,998
- 0L
- Miles
26.4K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
Arnold Clark Motorstore (East Kilbride)
BMW, i3
2017 (67) - BMW i3
15£9,290
Finance available £185 pm
*Representative example
- 0L
- Miles
76.0K
- Hybrid - Petrol/Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
Autobarn 100
BMW, i3
2021 (70) - BMW i3
29Low Mileage
£13,250
- 0L
- Miles
24.0K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
V12 Sports and Classics Hinckley
BMW, i3
2021 (70) - BMW i3
28£12,795
- 0L
- Miles
29.3K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
V12 Sports and Classics Stoke
BMW, i3
2014 - BMW i3
14Low Mileage
£8,495
Finance available £167 pm
*Representative example
- 0L
- Miles
69.3K
- Hybrid - Petrol/Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
RS Car Sales & Hire
BMW, i3
2020 (20) - BMW i3
21£13,699
Finance available £283 pm
*Representative example
- 0L
- Miles
40.5K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
Lookers Newcastle Nissan
BMW, i3
2022 - BMW i3
25Low Mileage
£17,999
Finance available £349 pm
*Representative example
- 0L
- Miles
15.4K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
Charles Hurst Usedirect/PremiumDirect Newtownabbey
BMW, i3
2014 (63) - BMW i3
26Low Mileage
£8,500
Finance available £167 pm
*Representative example
- 0L
- Miles
24.0K
- Full Electric
- Automatic
- Hatchback
BMW i3 snapshot review
Pros
- Superb build quality
- Funky interior
- Good to drive
Cons
- Divisive styling
- Lack of equipment in low trim
- Expensive to buy new
BMW i3 by type
Used BMW i3 information
Engines and transmissions
The BMW i3 is a fully electric vehicle, but there's also an option with a two-cylinder petrol motor, known as a range-extender hybrid. All models have an automatic single-speed transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Electric- 167bhp i3 has a maximum driving range of up to 191 miles and a 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds.
- 183bhp i3 S had 182bhp and was slightly faster and more sporty
- Using a three-plug socket charges the i3 in about 10 hours, or an 80% charge can be achieved in 30 minutes at a public fast charger.
- Available BMW i Wallbox charges to 80% at home in four hours.
- The range-extender versions had a two-cylinder petrol motor that was used to charge the batteries, significantly increasing range to around 276 miles.
Practicality
The BMW i3 is a compact car (about the same length as a Ford Fiesta), yet its clever packaging and lack of conventional engine mean it's remarkably spacious on the inside.
Interior space- Easy to find an ideal driving position with adjustable seat and steering wheel.
- Rear-hinged doors give decent access to the two back seats.
- ISOFIX points are easy to reach and will secure two child seats in the back.
- 260-litre boot is spacious enough to hold some groceries after weekly shopping.
- 50:50 split rear seats make room for more luggage, providing up to 1,100 litres of space, more than the Kia Soul EV.
- No boot lip means that lifting heavy luggage is easier.
Safety
- Euro NCAP gave the i3 four out of five stars in 2013.
- 86% rating for adult occupant and 81% for child occupant.
- Standard kit includes six airbags and stability control.
Technology
- iDrive infotainment system works with a high-res 10.0-inch display.
- Satnav comes standard on newer models for better route planning.
- Bluetooth and USB ports are available for connectivity.
BMW i3 generations
First Generation (2013 to 2022)
- Fuel type:
- Full Electric / Not Supplied
- Engine Size:
- MPG:
- 403 - 470
- Acceleration:
- 6.9 - 8.1 seconds
- Boot space:
- 260 L capacity
- NCAP Safety rating:
- 4 / 5 stars
Greenest
125kW 33kWh 5dr Auto
Cheapest
125kW 5dr Auto
Fastest
135kW S 33kWh 5dr Auto
Used BMW i3 information
Used BMW i3 FAQ's
Which is the most popular engine in the BMW i3?
The fully electric configuration of the i3 has proven to be the most popular among i3 drivers. Some of the 'range extender' models are also available on the used car market, offering a larger combined driving range that's good for longer journeys around the city.
Which are the most popular model variants?
The BMW i3 lineup was divided by the powertrain included, whether it was the i3 or i3s. The used cars are simply known as the i3, with Standard, S, Fluid Grey and Inspired variants available. All variants include similar equipment, with the S being the most popular variant offering a wider bodycolour range and varied soft interior finishes.
What optional extras should I look out for?
Customers should look out for the available Driving Assistance Plus Package which adds automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, both of which are valuable for boosting safety. There was also an option between 19-inch and 20-inch wheels, which can change the look of the EV.
Is the BMW i3 a good family car?
The i3 makes a reasonable attempt at being family-friendly. There are four seats and the rear seats are well suited for holding children. There are also ISOFIX points for child seats, and the rear-hinged doors offer quick access to the back, making it a great option for families who regularly travel around the city.
Is there a hybrid version of the BMW i3?
A used i3 can be found with a full-electric powertrain or a hybrid-type with a small petrol engine installed. The range-extender version has more power output uses the petrol engine when the battery needs to be charged.
Are all versions of the BMW i3 electric?
As with most electric vehicles, the i3 only comes with a single-speed automatic transmission. Because there are no gears, the i3 has almost instant access to acceleration and torque, which is helpful when driving in the city.
Is there a four-wheel drive version available?
No, the BMW i3 only delivers power to the rear wheels. Adding four-wheel drive would require more power which would significantly hurt the driving range. Cars from this segment don't need four-wheel drive, so there was no reason to add it.
Buying a used car checklist: what to look for
Buying a used car can be a daunting task, but with our checklist, you can make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.
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