BMW i Series vs BMW I3
What's the difference?

BMW i Series

$88,900 - $233,400

2026 price

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BMW I3

—

2020 price

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Aston Martin Vanquish

Lamborghini Aventador

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz A35

Mercedes-Benz A45

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C43

Mercedes-Benz C63

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E53

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz EQS

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Summary

2026 BMW i Series

2020 BMW I3

By Emily Agar

By James Cleary

Safety Rating

Electric motor type

Electromagnetically Excited

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Electric range

805 km

Electric range

270 km

Energy consumption

18.8 kWh/100km

14.6 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

108.70 kWh

42.00 kWh

Seating

Likes

Great driving range
Spacious cabin for the whole family
Excellent real-world efficiency

Design
Dynamics
Tech

Dislikes

Optioned wheels hurt range
Fussy ride on rough roads
Missing features for flagship grade

Pricey
Tight rear room
Short warranty

2026 BMW i Series Summary

We’re in the new BMW iX3, the first production model to arrive on BMW’s Neue Klasse (new class) EV architecture. We’re testing the flagship 50 xDrive, and it begs the question: has BMW actually managed to make its next generation of EVs feel like a proper Bimmer? Buyers expect a lot from that badge when it comes to ride and handling, so does this electric SUV actually deliver?

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2020 BMW I3 Summary

It’s easy to forget BMW was paddling into the growing electric vehicle wave when it was only a gentle swell. It took off early with the i3 city car, which believe it or not has been in the Aussie new car market for six years.

While the German maker has long been developing the concept of electrified powertrains in existing models, the i3 was the result of a dramatically different approach, showcasing the use of exotic materials and innovative packaging.

Like its i8 supercar sibling, the i3 won’t be replaced with a new-generation version, but BMW says it will continue to develop this high-tech hatch before it departs, and we spent a week in the sporty i3s to see how it stands up in 2020.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 BMW i Series 2020 BMW I3

Verdict

The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is a seriously quick electric SUV that earns points for its family practicality, while its impressive range could go a long way towards easing range anxiety. The ride isn’t always as settled as I’d like, but for the most part, this is a well-executed premium EV.

Verdict

Yes, it’s pricey for a small hatch, but this little BMW is a city car like no other. The i3s is tailor made for the urban environment, and six years on retains the quirkiness and charisma that stood it apart at launch, and it can still hold its head high among the current EV crop.

BMW i Series vs BMW I3 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

BMW i Series vs BMW I3
What's the difference?